The National Chamber of the Tequila Industry (CNIT) is the oldest tequila industry group in Mexico. Based in Guadalajara, the heart of tequila country, the organization recommends the following tequila tasting tips:
1. Observe the tequila in a clear glass against a white tablecloth. White or silver tequila should be completely clear in color. Reposado and Añejo tequilas will be golden, with extra-aged tequilas on the amber side.
2. Gently swirl the glass and observe a slight beading that indicates a high-quality viscosity.
3. Inhale while tilting the glass to identify hints of floral, citric agave in young tequilas. Aged tequilas will have deeper scents of ripe fruit, woods and spices.
4. Sip a small amount of the tequila and hold it on the tongue while exhaling through the nose. This gives a sense of the tequila’s deeper aromatic notes.
5. Expel the tequila. Note whether it was sweet, salty, sour or bitter. There should be harmony between the scent and flavor.
