National Tequila Day: A Toast to Mexican Identity

Every year on July 24th, Mexico celebrates National Tequila Day, a date dedicated to honoring this spirited drink that has captivated palates worldwide and that, with every sip, encapsulates centuries of history, identity, and culture.

Originating from the state of Jalisco (the undisputed birthplace of tequila), this distilled spirit is not only Mexico’s most representative beverage but also an international symbol of Mexican heritage. Its unmistakable flavor, made from the agave tequilana weber azul variety, reflects the character of a land rich in traditions, volcanoes, and agave landscapes, the latter declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2006.

The process of obtaining good tequila is as meticulous as it is fascinating. The agave must reach between 8 and 10 years of maturity and grow up to two meters tall before being harvested. Then, its artisanal transformation gives way to a beverage that can be primarily divided into two main varieties according to its region of origin: tequila from the Jalisco Highlands (Los Altos) and tequila from the Valleys (Los Valles).

The Highlands tequila is cultivated in reddish, mineral-rich soils, which gives it sweet, floral, and fruity notes; while the Valley tequila, influenced by the volcanic water of the Pueblo Mágico of Tequila, offers more herbal and earthy flavors. Each variety tells its own story, and both are worthy of being savored with attention and respect.

Although Jalisco leads production (accounting for over 80% of the national market value), the states of Guanajuato and Nayarit also contribute significantly to the cultivation of tequilana agave. This diverse production has given rise to an impressive range of labels, styles, and sensory experiences that have solidified tequila’s role as an ambassador of Mexican culture.

In the state of Jalisco, it is common to find refreshing traditional tequila-based drinks that are perfect for sunny days. From the classic margarita to more local preparations like the “cantarita” or “tejuino con piquete,” each recipe offers a new way to discover the nuances of this ancestral spirit.

Beyond being a beverage, tequila represents the effort of generations, the richness of the Mexican countryside, and the art of transforming a product of the earth into a flavor experience. For this reason, we raise our glasses today to toast not only a drink but a legacy that unites us and continues to evolve with creativity and respect for its roots.

Cheers!