Tequila has gained immense popularity over the years as a go-to drink for occasions ranging from happy hours to celebrations. While some may prefer the cheaper tequila options, there is a growing demand for premium tequilas made from 100% Blue Agave, which is known to have a smoother taste and a more refined complexity. Among the brands that have captured the attention of tequila enthusiasts is Cuervo Gold, a popular tequila that many believe to be 100% Blue Agave.
However, there has been much debate on whether Cuervo Gold is indeed 100% Blue Agave, as there are many mixed reviews and opinions circulating online. In this article, we will explore the origins of Cuervo Gold, what exactly Blue Agave is and the differences it can make in the taste, and ultimately answer the question- is Cuervo Gold 100% Blue Agave?
What is Cuervo Gold Tequila?
Cuervo Gold tequila is a popular drink enjoyed around the world. It is a type of tequila made by Jose Cuervo, the world’s largest producer of tequila. Cuervo Gold is a special blend of both silver and aged tequilas, which have been blended together to create a smooth and flavorful spirit.
This tequila is made from Blue Agave, which is grown in the state of Jalisco, Mexico. The agave must be at least seven years old to be harvested for use in Cuervo Gold tequila, and it is then roasted in specialized ovens. Once roasted, the agave is crushed and the juices are extruded for fermentation. The resulting tequila is then aged for a short period, which allows the flavors to meld together and develop their distinctive taste.
Understanding 100% Blue Agave Tequila
Tequila is a spirit made from blue agave plants grown primarily in the Jalisco region of Mexico. There are two types of tequila – mixto and 100% blue agave. Mixto is made by blending at least 51% blue agave with other sugars, while 100% blue agave tequila is made completely from the blue agave plant.
To be considered 100% blue agave tequila, the spirit must be made entirely from Blue Weber agave, which is grown in specific regions of Mexico and takes anywhere from 8-12 years to mature. The agave is then harvested by hand, and the juice is extracted, fermented, and distilled to produce tequila. 100% blue agave tequila is generally considered to be of higher quality, as it has a more complex, refined flavor profile. So, when purchasing tequila, make sure to look for the words “100% blue agave” on the label to ensure you are getting a premium quality spirit.
The Ingredients of Cuervo Gold Tequila
The ingredients of Cuervo Gold Tequila give an insight into its quality and authenticity. The main ingredient of Cuervo Gold is, indeed, 100% blue agave, as stated by the brand. Blue agave is a type of succulent plant that takes years to mature and is native to Jalisco, Mexico, the region where tequila is produced. Cuervo Gold uses only the agave heart, known as the piña, which is roasted, crushed, and fermented to produce the tequila.
Aside from blue agave, Cuervo Gold Tequila also contains water and a small amount of caramel coloring. The caramel coloring is added to create a consistent color across batches, whereas the water is necessary for diluting the alcohol content to its legal limit. While some tequilas may contain additives, such as sugar or additional flavorings, Cuervo Gold Tequila does not. Its ingredients adhere to strict guidelines set by the Mexican government to ensure consistency and quality. Overall, the use of 100% blue agave and limited additives make Cuervo Gold an authentic and high-quality tequila.
Label Reading: A Look at Cuervo Gold’s Production Process
Cuervo Gold is marketed as a premium tequila that is made exclusively from 100% blue agave. However, many customers have raised doubts about the quality of this product, questioning whether it is truly made from blue agave or if it contains any additives. In order to determine the truth about Cuervo Gold, it is necessary to look at the label and understand the production process.
One of the key things to note when reading the label of Cuervo Gold is the term “mixto.” This indicates that the tequila is not made exclusively from blue agave, but rather is a blend of agave and other sugars. In addition, the label does not specify the percentage of blue agave used, which could raise further concerns about the product’s quality. Understanding the production process can provide further insight into what goes into making Cuervo Gold and whether it is truly a premium tequila.
Why Cuervo Gold is Not 100% Blue Agave Tequila
Many consumers believe that Jose Cuervo Gold is made from 100% Blue Agave Tequila. However, this is not entirely true. If you look at the label closely, you will notice that it is a blend of 51% Blue Agave Tequila and 49% other spirits. This means that almost half of the bottle is made up of non-tequila ingredients.
The reason why Cuervo Gold is not 100% Blue Agave Tequila is that the production process is faster and less expensive. To make 100% Blue Agave Tequila, the agave plant needs to mature for at least 7 years before it can be harvested. This makes the production process longer, costlier, and more labor-intensive. By mixing tequila with other spirits, Cuervo can produce a cheaper product that is accessible to a wider audience.
What Makes 100% Blue Agave Tequila Different from Mixto Tequila?
The difference between 100% blue agave tequila and mixto tequila lies in the ingredients and the production process. 100% blue agave tequila is made exclusively from blue agave plants, while mixto tequila contains a minimum of 51% blue agave, with other sugars such as corn or sugar cane added to the mix.
Moreover, mixto tequila is often produced using a diffuser machine that extracts the sugar from the agave plant, while 100% blue agave tequila is made using a traditional method known as the tahona or roller mill process. This process involves crushing the agave plant using a large, volcanic stone wheel, which separates the juice from the fibers. As a result, 100% blue agave tequila tends to have a smoother taste and a higher quality than mixto tequila, making it a popular choice among tequila aficionados.
Tasting Notes – The Flavor Profile of Cuervo Gold Tequila.
Cuervo Gold Tequila has a distinct flavor profile that is a perfect balance of sweet and spicy notes. Upon opening the bottle, you can smell the aroma of freshly baked agave and caramel. The first sip takes you on a journey of flavors, starting with sweet vanilla and caramel, immediately followed by the natural sweetness of agave. The medium-bodied tequila has a hint of spice, which comes from the oak barrel aging process that imparts flavors of cinnamon and pepper.
The finish is smooth and lingering, with a mild smokiness that pleasantly tingles the palate. Cuervo Gold Tequila is perfect for sipping on its own or mixing it in margaritas, Palomas, and other popular cocktails. The flavor profile of Cuervo Gold Tequila is a testament to the mastery of tequila making by the Cuervo family, who have been crafting tequila for over 250 years. Overall, Cuervo Gold Tequila is a true gem for anyone who admires the robustness of agave and seeks an authentic tequila experience.
Final Words
After conducting research and examining the label, it is clear that Cuervo Gold is not made entirely from blue agave. The label states that it is a mix of 51% blue agave and 49% other sugars and additives. This means that while Cuervo Gold may contain some blue agave, it cannot be considered a true blue agave tequila.
It is essential to read labels carefully and understand the ingredients in the products we consume. While Cuervo Gold may still taste good and provide an enjoyable drinking experience for some, those seeking a high-quality, authentic tequila made solely from blue agave should look elsewhere. In the end, understanding what we consume and making informed choices is crucial for our health and wellness.