About National Tequila Day
Whether you prefer yours neat, on the rocks, or shaken into a frosty margarita, National Tequila Day is the perfect excuse to toast to one of the world's most famous spirits.
Deeply rooted in Mexican culture and craftsmanship, tequila has evolved from an ancient fermented drink into a globally celebrated beverage. Let's dive into the history, traditions, and simple ways you can get involved in the festivities!
The Origins of National Tequila Day
Tequila's story spans thousands of years. Long before modern distillation techniques arrived in Mexico, indigenous Mesoamerican tribes harvested and fermented the sweet juice of the agave plant around 1000 BC. The resulting milky beverage, known as pulque, was considered sacred and played an important role in religious ceremonies and daily life.
The spirit we recognize today took shape in the 16th century when Spanish conquistadors began distilling agave. Production settled in the state of Jalisco, near a town that was officially designated as Tequila in 1666.
By 1795, the Cuervo family received the first official license to commercially produce tequila, laying the foundation for an industry that now exports millions of gallons worldwide each year.
The first mention of this day goes all the way back to 1974, when a few members of Beta Beta Beta fraternity of Utah State University - Bill Brown, Robb Sykes, and Doug McCullouch - held the first National Tequila Day on November 16, 1974, during the school's annual football game with rival University of Utah.
McCullouch, in a 1979 letter to the editor of The Utah Statesman, described National Tequila Day as "the only national holiday native to Utah" and a "day to commemorate the United States' relationship with its neighbor Mexico."
It soon became an annual event, and by 1976, it had spread to more than 20 states and parts of Canada. In Logan, where the university is located, the local liquor store would sell out of the spirit, forcing students to drive to Idaho to get their party supplies. By the 2000s, tequila brands, bars, and restaurants had taken over the holiday, with a move to July 24.
The Mexican Senate ruled in 2018 that they would include a National Tequila Day as well, on the third Saturday of March.
Did you know? Authentic tequila must be made from 100% Blue Weber Agave and can legally only be produced in specific designated states in Mexico, primarily Jalisco.
Understanding Tequila Varieties on National Tequila Day
Not all tequila is created equal! Depending on how long the spirit ages in oak barrels, it develops distinctly different flavors, colors, and aromas:
Blanco (Silver/Plata): Unaged or aged for less than two months in stainless steel tanks, offering bright, pure agave flavor with pepper and citrus notes.
Reposado ("Rested"): Aged in oak barrels for anywhere between two months and one year, acquiring a soft golden hue and subtle notes of vanilla and oak.
Añejo ("Aged"): Aged in oak barrels for one to three years, yielding a smooth, dark spirit with rich caramel and chocolate undertones.
Extra Añejo: Aged for more than three years, creating an exceptionally complex sipping spirit similar to fine cognac or whiskey.
Did you know? It takes anywhere from 7 to 10 years for a Blue Weber Agave plant to mature before its heart (known as the piña) is harvested by skilled field workers called jimadores.
How to Celebrate National Tequila Day
Ready to join the party? Here are a few great ways you can get involved and make the most of National Tequila Day:
Host a Tasting Flight: Gather a few friends and compare a Blanco, Reposado, and Añejo side-by-side to explore how oak aging transforms flavor profiles.
Mix Classic Mexican Cocktails: Expand your horizon beyond the Margarita by mixing up a refreshing Paloma (tequila, lime, and grapefruit soda) or a Tequila Sunrise.
Visit a Local Tequila Bar: Support local bartenders by asking for their recommendation on an artisanal, 100% agave tequila you haven't tried yet.
Pair Tequila with Mexican Cuisine: Enhance your meal by pairing crisp Blancos with fresh ceviche, or a rich Añejo with savory mole or grilled meats.
How do you plan to celebrate? Grab a bottle, gather your favorite people, and raise a glass to centuries of Mexican tradition and craftsmanship!
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