The Book of Tequila

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Tequila, the spirit of Mexico, is now more popular than ever in the United it is the most rapidly growing segment of the distilled spirits market. Although familiar to everyone, especially as the most distinctive ingredient of the Margarita, tequila is also a rich source of legend, mystery, and downright misinformation. The history of tequila is interwoven with the history of Mexico, and fine tequila is like fine art, a window into a nation's soul.The Book of Tequila is the first comprehensive guide to this unique spirit, which in origin, manufacture, and flavor is strikingly different from such liquors as whiskey, rum, or vodka. Tequila is made, not from a fruit or a grain, but from a large succulent plant (technically not a cactus), the famous blue agave. With 60 illustrations, The Book of Tequila assembles all the information readers will need to become experts on tequila-- A clear explanation of the two basic kinds (100-percent agave and mixto) and the seven broad categories of tequila-- A complete list of all 40 distilleries producing tequila, with an account of their histories, products, and peculiarities, as well as listings of distributors, exporters, and labels-- Tasting notes for all the best (100-percent agave) tequilas-- Advice on how to organize a tequila tasting-- 20 recipes for drinks and dishes using tequila-- The true story behind the legendary Margarita; its origins and the best recipes-- The history of tequila presented as part of the history of Mexico, showing the relation between tequila and other Mexican drinks derived from the agave, such as mezcal (the one with the worm) and pulque-- A vivid report on the harvesting ofthe agave and all stages of the manufacture of tequila-- Complete information on the legal regulations governing production of what may be called tequila