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Where does Tequila come from?
From the country that has given us enchiladas and jalapeno
peppers, it only stands to reason that it would produce a fiery liquor that tastes as if
it were distilled by the gods.
Of the more than 50 tequila factories in the state of Jalisco most are minor operations.
About ten companies, largely those in the town of Tequila account for three-fourths of
total production.
Tequila is part of the hear and soul of Mexico. Behind the doors of the cantinas,
restaurants, and night clubs in every town of Mexico, it is the potent tequila that either
reduces the disappointments, or enhances the festive atmosphere.
In rural Mexico its no surprise that tequila can be found in pharmacies, hardware stores,
and grocery stores as well as liquor shops. It is believed by some to contain certain
properties that can cure or arrest the effects of syphilis, purify the blood and act as an
aphrodisiac. It is used medicinally as an astringent for cuts and bruises. It is also used
as after shave lotion, insect repellent, lighter fluid for charcoal fires and, when used
in moderation, a cholesterol fighter. It's considered a digestive, a diuretic, and a
laxative all in one, when appropriately served before, during or after meals. It's so rich
in yeast and vitamins that some mothers frequently apply several drops to perk up their
baby.
The Sauza firm maintains a small museum in the town Tequila, tracing the industry's
history as well as it's own. In the old days the harvested piņa's were cooked in the open
fields in deep, stone-filled pits, then carried by burro to crude distilleries, where they
were crushed on round, mule-driven stone presses.
Tequila was first imported legally into the United States in the 1870's. During the
prohibition, tequila's popularity increased, as it was smuggled over the border from
Mexico. Tequila's popularity increased again in the 1950's, when an erroneous rumor that
it contained mescaline (a psychedelic drug derived from a cactus) made it popular with hip
Californians.
Sales in the United States have increased over 1500% between 1975 and 1995, making the
U.S. the world's largest importer, accounting for 90% of all tequila exports. Canada,
France and Japan are the next largest importers.
Because of the huge tequila demand and limited land suitable for cultivation, almost all
distillers stretch their tequila by the addition of brown sugar, or cane sugar alcohol,
legally limited up to 49 percent. Look for the 100 % Agave on the label for pure tequila!