Tequila Myths, Debunked – Unicorn Tequila
Myth #1: Tequila is a stimulant.
Despite its reputation to get your heart racing and give you the idea to dance on tables, tequila is a depressant like other alcohol. The myth that tequila is an upper comes from the dopamine drop alcohol gives. And even though it’s made from sugar, the distilling process makes most tequila low in sugar content.
Myth #2: Tequila has a worm inside.
The tequila worm is actually found in mezcal, not tequila — and it’s technically not a worm. The “tequila worm” is gusano de maguey (meaning “maguey worm”), a moth larva that eats blue agave. Why larvae are sometimes put in mezcal bottles is shrouded in mystery, but rumor has it that it began with entrepreneur Jacobo Lozano Paez in the 1940s-ish. He did it for marketing, then realized the roasted larvae changed the flavor of the spirit. Some say if gusano de maguey ends up in your glass, swallowing it is good luck. Whatever you’re into.
Myth #3: Agave is a cactus.
Not quite. Agave is a succulent (like a cactus) but agave is actually from the Lilly family. Cacti don’t have leaves, but agave plants do.
Myth #4: Like other liquor, tequila is better when aged.
Not exactly. Tequila añejo and extra añejo are the “oldest” tequilas with smooth vanilla and cinnamon notes, best enjoyed neat or on the rocks. But if bolder, forward flavors like pepper, citrus and spice are more your style, “younger” tequila blanco is what you should sip. We love all tequila. We’re biased.
Myth #5: Tequila can only be made in Mexico.
Originally, a spirit was only considered tequila if it were made in Mexico. Other agave-based spirits are technically mezcal. Now, mixtos tequilas can be made outside of Mexico. And for that, we are grateful.