Why agave spirits in India are gaining ground

In case you thought tequila has replaced gin as a popular alcohol, the growing universe of agave spirits in India tells a more complex story. Five brands you must try

Don Julio

This brand offers four variants: The Blanco made with pure unaged agave and blended with hints of citrus, the Reposado barrel-aged for eight months in American white-oak barrels, the Anejo that offers a fine balance between agave, wood and hints of vanilla, and the 1942 aged for at least two and a half years.

Loca Loka

This tequila brand has two variants: the fruity and earthy aged (in oak barrels) Blanco and the Reposado that’s richer aroma. Both grown in the highlands of Jalisco and aged for six years, infused with the essence of bold Indian flavours.

Maya Pistola Agavepura

Made from wild Agave Americana in the Chittoor district, this brand offers multiple variants: the Reposado, aged for four to six months, the Joven, a blend of unaged and aged 100% Agave, The Rosa, aged in ex-Cabernet Sauvignon barrels, The Añejo, aged for over 14 months, and the Extra Añejo that's aged for over 36 months.

Desmondji

This agave brand offers multiple variants: a 51% Agave distilled in small batches in artisanal pot-stills; a 100% Agave; and a 51% Agave Gold finished in charred oak to yield a warm and mellow spirit.

El Goonda

This agave brand offers a range of unique flavours like The Cafe which has the aroma of roasted coffee, creamy vanilla, and toffee. The Strawberry has hints of toasted oak and caramel, and the Picante is a variant with zingy, fresh notes of citrus and cilantro.

Tequila and agave cocktails in Indian flavours

Tequila pairs well with bright, zesty and cooling ingredients like lime, Gondhoraj lemon, raw mango, coconut water, mint, coriander, pineapple. Agave spirits shine with earthy and robust flavours such as tamarind, jaggery, kokum, roasted pineapple, coffee, cacao, and warm spices.

The difference between Tequila and Agave

Tequila is a specific category of agave spirit, but not all agave spirits are tequila. Tequila has to be made exclusively from Blue Weber agave grown in designated regions of Mexico.