Good tequila deserves better than salt, lime and a wince. Here's how to serve it, taste it like a pro, and mix two simple cocktails that let great agave shine.
First rule: sip, don't shoot
The salt-and-lime ritual exists to mask harsh, mass-produced tequila. A 100% agave, additive-free bottle (see Part 1 for why that matters) is made to be tasted, not survived. Pour a little, take your time, and let it open up.
The right glass
Skip the shot glass. Reach for one of these:
- Riedel-style tequila glass or a copita: a small tulip shape that concentrates the aroma — the ideal choice.
- A white-wine glass or small snifter: a perfect everyday substitute.
- A rocks glass: fine and casual — just drink it neat, without ice, to taste it properly.
Serve it right
Pour at room temperature. Chilling mutes the very aromas you paid for.
How to taste tequila in four steps
- Look: tilt the glass and note the colour — a clue to how long it aged (see Part 2).
- Smell: nose it gently with your mouth slightly open. Look for cooked agave, citrus, pepper, vanilla or caramel.
- Sip: take a small sip and let it coat your whole palate before swallowing.
- Savour: notice the finish — how the flavours evolve and how long they linger. That's where quality lives.
What to eat with it
Tequila is a brilliant food partner. A few easy wins:
- Blanco: ceviche, oysters, citrus, fresh salsa, grilled fish.
- Reposado: tacos al pastor, grilled chicken, mild cheeses.
- Añejo & Extra Añejo: dark chocolate, aged cheese, dulce de leche — or simply on its own after dinner.
Classic pairing tip
A wedge of orange with a light dusting of cinnamon (not salt and lime) flatters an aged tequila beautifully.
Two simple cocktails that respect the agave
The Perfect Margarita
Use a Blanco
Its bright agave punches through the citrus.
- 60ml Blanco tequila
- 30ml fresh lime juice
- 20ml agave syrup (or Cointreau)
MethodShake hard over ice, strain into a glass, salt rim optional.
Tequila Old Fashioned
Use a Reposado or Añejo
The oak notes stand in beautifully for whisky.
- 60ml Reposado or Añejo
- 1 tsp agave syrup
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
MethodStir over ice, strain over a large cube, garnish with orange peel.
How much to pour
A standard sipping measure is 30–45ml. There's no need to rush — one good pour, enjoyed slowly, beats three quick shots every time. And always drink responsibly.
Put it into practice
Pick up a bottle worth sipping
100% agave, additive-free, and ready to enjoy properly.
You've finished the series
Revisit any part any time:
¡Salud!
