Do you know how to properly taste Tequila? Just grab a glass and taste, right? Maybe a little sniff and swirl here and there? Blue Nectar tequila is here to inform you of how to properly taste tequila. The proper tasting technique allows for maximum tequila pleasure. Here’s how:

First, you must have the right glassware. Blue Nectar suggests that you put the shot glass away. This isn’t a frat party, dude. Blue Nectar says ” they will cheapen the experience.” And, when using a shot glass, you lose out on many of the rich aromas. What should you use? A champagne flute, small brandy snifter or a white wine glass. I always go for the snifters. There’s also the Ouverture Tequila Glass by Riedel, if you really want to be official.

Now that you’ve picked out the right glassware, you’ve got to have the right tequila. I know I don’t need to mention that you should only be drinking 100% agave tequila, right? Put the mixto’s down!!! Pick up the good stuff.

The next thing you need to do is warm up your mouth, according to Blue Nectar. I like to think that my palate is somewhat refined and I know I “concentrate” on the spirit when tasting but, Blue Nectar Tequila has it down to a science. “Start by taking a tiny sip. Use your tongue to rub the tequila over the inside of your mouth. Make sure to cover the gums, tongue, inside the cheeks. Swallow, and breathe out through your mouth. Now you’re ready to taste.” This is exactly what I did when tasting Blue Nectar. It really makes a difference.

Savor the aroma.  Unlike sampling wine, you should only take three small sniffs of tequila. The first sniff without swirling, and the second, while swirling to release the aromas.

Taste it slowly. When you take your small sips, let your palate get used to the tequila and breathe in through your nose. Swallow and exhale.

Define the taste.  Much like wine, tequila can be defined by it’s region. For the real tequila buffs, you probably already know that Highland agaves grow at a higher elevation in red, iron-rich soils and tend to be larger. These tequilas lend a fruity, sweet-citrus note. In the Lowlands, the agave plants grow in drier, volcanic soils and tend to be smaller. These tequilas have more mineral, pepper, herbaceous and earthy notes. Blue Nectar is an estate-grown, Lowland tequila.

Last but not least, be sure to cleanse your palate.  Between sips of tequila, have a taste of sangrita or water on hand. Especially when tasting between the different ages of tequila.

Blue Nectar Silver is triple distilled and agave forward. These are my favorite types. Really clean, crisp flavors. Really smooth, and an easy sipper on it’s own, Blue Nectar stands out in any cocktail

The Reposado is twice distilled. Aged 6-8 months in charred American oak barrels, this expression from Blue Nectar is rich and super smooth. The tasting notes are of oak, vanilla, roasted agave with a bittersweet finish on the palate.

The Special Reserve is just what it says. Truly a special tequila. It’s unlike any Añejo I’ve ever tasted. It’s lightly sweet on the palate with a nice warmth and a spicy finish. I don’t suggest making any cocktails with this expression. It’s perfect on it’s own, sipped slowly.

Now for a couple of cocktails. That is why you’re here after all. It’s time to take advantage of some fresh summer berries. This is a simple cocktail, open to your interpretation.

Raspberry Smash:

2oz. Blue Nectar Silver Tequila

1oz. Raspberry Syrup

1oz. Lime Juice

3-5 Raspberries

2 Dashes Jalapeño Tincture [Or muddled Jalapeño rings]

*Muddle raspberries and jalapeño ring (if not using Tincture) in cocktail shaker. Add remaining ingredients and fill with ice. Shake until chilled and double strain into rocks glass over fresh [crushed] ice. Garnish with fresh raspberries, jalapeño and lime wheels.

Summer Soiree:

1 1/2oz. Blue Nectar Reposado Tequila

3/4oz. Apricot Liqueur

3/4oz. Fresh Pineapple Juice

1/2oz. Lime Juice

1/4oz. Simple Syrup

2 Dashes Orange Bitters [Such as Hella Bitters]

*Add all ingredients to shaker and fill with ice. Shake until chilled and double strain into a chilled coupe glass. Garnish with a lime wedge. Cheers!

Toast to summer with Blue Nectar Tequila, ¡Salud!