NATIONAL TEQUILA DAY
Fast Facts
- WHEN
- Celebrated each year on July 24th
- WHY
- To honor and celebrate an ancient drink originating in Mexico
- WEIRD FACT
- Tequila is mezcal, but mezcal isn't Tequila
- VIBE
- Smooth, slow sipping, historical
NATIONAL TEQUILA DAY
On July 24th, commemorate National Tequila Day with a little lime and salt. Mix up a Margarita, Paloma, or a Mamasita to celebrate the day! People have been making Tequila for centuries, and it was once known as pulque (fermented agave juice).
#NationalTequilaDay
In fact, Tequila is mezcal, but mezcal isn't Tequila. That's because Tequila is distilled from a specific type of agave plant. Also, the law protects its production. Take a sip, and we'll travel into Tequila's history.
Tequila History
Pre-16th Century
Long before distillation arrived, indigenous populations in Mexico harvested and fermented nectar from various agave (succulent) plants to make traditional beverages like pulque (referred to broadly in the text as early mezcal wine).
16th Century
Hernán Cortés and Spanish conquistadors arrived in North America. Finding the native fermented drinks unpalatable, they introduced copper stills to the region, initiating the distillation process. The town of Tequila began distilling the local Blue Agave, distinguishing its product from other agave spirits.
Late 18th – 19th Century
José Antonio Cuervo obtained the very first official license to commercially produce tequila, establishing one of the earliest major tequila houses. Prominent producers such as Don Cenobio Sauza and Félix López followed and built major tequila businesses during this period that still influence the industry today.
Modern Era
Tequila transitioned from a rough shot/cocktail spirit to a refined sipping spirit enjoyed similarly to fine whiskey, highlighting the distinct flavor profiles of highland (sweeter) vs. lowland (herbal) agave crops.
Mexican law officially protected Tequila production. To legally be called Tequila, it must be produced in Jalisco or specific designated regions in Guanajuato, Michoacán, Nayarit, and Tamaulipas using Blue Agave.
Interestingly, many names in the tequila business today were the very first commercial producers of Tequila. For example, José Antonio Cuervo held the first license for making the favored beverage. He kept a well-known company, too. Two other names include Don Cenobio Sauza and Félix López, whose businesses continue in some form today.
Equally enjoyed in cocktails such as the Margarita or Tequila Sunrise, connoisseurs savor a good Tequila like a good whiskey. As a result, savvy drinkers experience the smooth renaissance of Tequila. Surprisingly, it's not the firewater they remember from their youth.
HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL TEQUILA DAY
While cooking up fajitas, mix a drink for you and your friends. Try margaritas or a new cocktail. Make a celebration out of your meal. (Remember to always drink responsibly and never drive drunk). Join the conversation by posting on social media using #NationalTequilaDay.
NATIONAL TEQUILA DAY HISTORY
National Day Calendar is researching the origins of this beverage holiday.