tequila: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples

No. All tequila is a type of mezcal, but not all mezcal is tequila. Tequila must be made specifically from blue agave in designated regions of Mexico, primarily Jalisco. Mezcal can be made from over 30 types of agave, often in Oaxaca, and typically has a smokier flavour.

It means the tequila is made solely from the sugars of the blue agave plant. 'Mixto' tequilas, which do not carry this label, can contain up to 49% other sugars, like cane sugar, and are generally considered lower quality.

While shots with salt and lime are popular, higher-quality tequilas (like reposado or añejo) are meant to be sipped slowly from a snifter glass to appreciate their complex flavours, much like a fine whisky.

This is a common misconception. Tequila never contains a worm. The worm (actually a larva) is traditionally found in some bottles of mezcal, as a marketing gimmick and a sign of authenticity for that specific spirit.

A strong, clear alcoholic spirit made in Mexico from the blue agave plant.

Tequila is usually informal to neutral in register.

Tequila: in British English it is pronounced /təˈkiːlə/, and in American English it is pronounced /təˈkilə/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.