Tequila is meant to be pure.

Pure from additives, refined sugars, or high fructose corn syrup. It’s a liquor steeped in tradition, its roots trace back to the days of the mighty Aztecs and Spanish Conquistadors. Native to the harsh and beautiful Chihuahuan desert, the agave has thrived in this arid environment, becoming an iconic symbol of perseverance, tenacity, longevity; celebratory of life.  Agave, derived from the Greek word “agavos” lives up to its translation of “illustrious”  and has become iconic in the Jalisco region of Northern Mexico due to its many uses and implications. This unique succulent falls into the classification of the lily family, with thick and fleshly leaves, semi blunted spikes running down the sides, protecting the treasure that lies within. Nature’s beautiful design to guard the heart of the agave, the pia, the key ingredient of 100% blue agave tequila.

Not all tequila is made the same.

The old adage of quality VS quantity rings true between 100% AGAVE TEQUILA VS MIXTO. When a label says that a tequila is 100% Blue Agave tequila, it’s not just another label, but a statement of the preservation of the old ways. When a label reads, “100% Agave Tequila”, it means that this tequila has been tried and vetted for, and that it has undergone the arduous process of becoming certified from the CRT (Tequila Regulatory Council). This process is quite important as the tight regulations implemented by the CRT ensure that 100% Blue Agave Tequila embodies much more than just another spirit. Much like port wine, true 100% Blue Agave Tequila has a geographical origin, being made in one of the five regions in Mexico permitted to produce Tequila, which ensures that the quality of the tequila is top-notch, well-maintained, and adherent to the proper regulations that preserve the traditions of old. Although this process is strict, costly, and time consuming, it truly does create something special. The trials and tribulations Premium 100% Blue Agave Tequilas such as PURO undergo to preserve the Spirit of the Southwest is well worth it, as this creates and ensures a distinct flavor profile with a complex fragrance unique to each brand of 100% Blue Agave tequila.

Mixto is a NoNo.

On the other hand, if you’ve ever had a night out on the town, and drank too many tequilas (as if there was such a thing…), and had a raging hangover the next day, chances are you weren’t drinking 100% Blue Agave Tequila, and instead consumed Mixto Tequila. When it comes to Mixto tequilas, the traditions of old are tossed to the wayside, as these tequilas do not undergo the arduous certification process of the CRT, nor are they manufactured, canned, or bottled in Mexico. Mixto tequilas are only required to have a diluted 51%  Blue Agave tequila, just enough to be even classified as a tequila, while using various additives (49%) and other non-agave ingredients to dilute and mask their lackluster tequila profile. These additives such as cane sugar, piloncillo (processed Mexican cane sugar), molasses, and high fructose corn syrup almost contradict the very nature of tequila, which is the nature of simplicity and purity. The worst part of all, is that Mixto tequila manufactures aren’t even required to tell the consumers what additives they use.