How to Drink Like a Grown-Up

Featured on Self Magazine, May 29th, 2014.

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Welcome to Thirsty Thursday! Each week we toast the coming weekend with a new adult beverage for you to enjoy. Cheers!

When's the last time you threw back a shot of tequila? Well, we're calling that the last tequila shot you'll ever take. Starting now, it's time to upgrade your tastes! Just like whiskey (and even rum), the good tequilas out there are highly drinkable and meant to be sipped. One of our must-tries has always been Casa Dragones, but at $275 a pop it’s a bit too top shelf for most of us. In June, the famed distiller is launching a more affordable tequila, Casa Dragones Blanco (for around $80). It’s still a splurge, but think of it this way: one bottle costs as much as about eight cocktails! Never sat down to sip this agave spirit before? We asked Casa Dragones founder Bertha Gonzalez Nieves for some tips:

What type of glass should you use to taste tequila? Ideally you’d have a tequila tasting glass, like this one from Riedel. A narrow, stemmed glass lets you appreciate the spirit’s characteristics, aromas, taste and finish.

How do you taste tequila? What are you looking for? Pour a small amount of tequila into the glass and swirl slowly, noticing the color and legs from the side of the glass and then from above. When tasting tequila, you should be looking for balance. You’ll taste the inherent flavor of the agave and the flavors from the terroir [just like wine]. With Casa Dragones Blanco you’ll find pure agave notes, plus grapefruit, green apple, pepper and cloves.

What goes well with tequila? Two of my favorites are bass ceviche and fresh oysters!