Food and Beverage
Talking Tequila: Understanding how 100% agave blanco tequilas are made
Last Updated on August 16, 2025 by Daily News Staff
Talking Tequila: Understanding how 100% agave blanco tequilas are made
(Family Features) As one of the world’s most popular spirits, tequila has a rich heritage rooted in traditional Mexican craftsmanship. Yet, many people may not be aware of its history or all that goes into producing the spirit. Understanding the production process can reveal the commitment to quality, artistry and craftsmanship that defines one of Mexico’s greatest treasures.
What is Tequila?
Tequila is a distilled spirit that can only be made from Blue Weber agave grown in five specific regions of Mexico: Jalisco, Guanajuato, Michoacán, Nayarit and Tamaulipas. Blue Weber agave takes more than five years to mature and each agave plant is harvested only once.
Tequila is not just a spirit – it’s also a place. The town of Tequila in Jalisco, Mexico, is where this iconic spirit was born. The tequila industry as people know it began in 1758 when Jose Antonio de Cuervo was granted land in the region. By 1812, his family established La Rojeña, which remains the oldest tequila distillery in the world. Cuervo was the first to export tequila to the United States, setting the stage for tequila’s global expansion. Today, La Rojeña crafts many tequilas, including Cuervo Tradicional, Reserva de la Familia by Jose Cuervo and Maestro Dobel Tequila, following time-honored methods.
The Art of Tequila Production
The tequila-making process begins with cooking the inner portion of the agave, the piña, to convert the plant’s natural starches into fermentable sugars. After cooking, the juices from the piñas are extracted and separated from the agave fibers. These juices are then fermented using various yeast strains to convert the agave sugars to alcohol before the liquid is distilled.
The art of tequila production involves striking a balance between traditional methods and modern techniques to achieve consistency and quality. This process showcases the natural complexity and character of the Blue Weber agave plant, as well as the unique craftsmanship that goes into every bottle.
Favorite 100% Agave Blanco Tequilas
When searching for your next favorite tequila, consider one of these award-winning 100% agave options crafted with just three simple ingredients. Each tequila has been Mexican-family owned for 11 generations, uses estate-grown agave, recycles 100% of its agave fibers and treats 100% of the water used in the tequila-making process. To learn more about tequila production, visit TequilaFacts.org.
The Tequila That Invented Tequila
The original tequila created more than 230 years ago by the oldest tequila company and first agave farmers, Cuervo Tradicional Blanco follows the same family recipe that put tequila on the map. This award-winning 100% Blue Weber agave tequila offers herbaceous citrus notes balanced by spicy, sweet fruit and a clean finish. Cuervo is a protector of the industry, environment and Mexican communities at the heart of tequila.
How It’s Made: The agaves are aged at least 5 1/2 years before they’re cooked in traditional masonry brick ovens at La Rojeña for 36-40 hours. They’re then processed through roller mills to extract the juices.
The Best Taste in Tequila and in Life
Taking its name from the year tequila began gaining recognition beyond its humble origins in Jalisco, Mexico, 1800 Blanco Tequila features a floral, fruity aroma with hints of spice and black peppercorn with a balanced sweet prune and roasted pepper flavor, making it the perfect tequila to enjoy neat, on the rocks or incorporated in your favorite cocktail.
How It’s Made: Agave hearts are hand-harvested at peak maturity before the tequila is cooked in traditional masonry brick ovens for more than 36 hours, then double-distilled in copper pot stills. The tequila is a special selection of white tequilas blended for added complexity and flavor.
The Organic Crown Jewel of the Cuervo Family
Reserva de la Familia Organic Platino by Jose Cuervo is part of a collection of small-batch artisanal tequilas, 100% organically certified and handcrafted with meticulous care. This bright, unaged tequila features a unique, sweet and spicy palate with notes of melon, honey and hay, culminating in a clean finish highlighted by warm cinnamon spice. As a 100% certified organic product, it is one of the finest, most sustainable ultra-premium tequilas on the market.
How It’s Made: This tequila is crafted following the ‘Esencia de Agave’ process – a proprietary process created by Cuervo and known only by the distillers. This method allows the agave notes to retain their original character and shine through in the aroma and flavor of the finished product.
Mexico’s No. 1 Tequila
An award-winning, 100% Blue Weber agave tequila, Gran Centenario Plata is the favorite tequila of Mexico. Originated in 1857 by the first Master Distiller of tequila, this blanco presents vibrant fruit characteristics of pear, lime and citrus, complemented by subtle black pepper undertones.
How It’s Made: This blanco tequila is unique because it is matured in American Oak pipónes for 4-6 weeks, contributing to its distinctive straw color. The surface contact ratio of the pipónes is smaller than a barrel, which allows for less exposure to the wood, creating a nuanced flavor profile when compared to other blancos.
An Uncommonly Smooth Tequila for Any Occasion
A beloved tequila in Mexico, Maestro Dobel Blanco is crafted from single estate agaves that are slow-cooked in masonry ovens. Distilled twice, the resulting liquid is sweet, featuring caramel, honey, maple, walnut and vanilla tones alongside an indescribable softness and smooth finish.
How It’s Made: The agaves are harvested before the rainy season to create a greater concentration of carbohydrates, adding depth of flavor and producing a smooth, complex blanco tequila.
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(Family Features) Whether you’re lounging by the pool or hitting the trails for a family hike or bike ride, exposure to summer heat can leave you feeling dehydrated and fatigued.
Comprised of nearly 90% water and delivering essential electrolytes like potassium and magnesium, 100% orange juice can serve as a healthy complement to your hydration routine. These electrolytes are crucial in helping to maintain fluid balance and muscle function regardless of the time of year, but they’re especially important during the warmer summer months when you are exerting more.
Consider these unexpected ways Florida Orange Juice can help power your summer.
Support Immunity
100% orange juice isn’t just a tasty drink; it’s also packed with essential nutrients that support your immune system. An 8-ounce glass of 100% orange juice is an excellent source of vitamin C, plus it provides key nutrients such as folate, potassium and thiamin, as well as vitamin D and calcium (in fortified juices), that help support the immune system all year long.
Add Healthy Flavor to Meals
Fat-free, cholesterol-free and sodium-free with no added sugar, 100% orange juice is a healthy addition to any diet, adding a burst of flavor to favorite dishes. Consider using Florida Orange Juice as part of the marinade in these Orange Juice Citrus Chicken Kebabs or as a base for salad dressings to create a perfect balance that will delight your taste buds.
Electrolyte and Hydration Support
With many kids participating in summer sports and other outdoor demands on families during the warmer months, it can be difficult to provide your family with healthy, hydrating beverages. However, an option like this On-the-Go Orange Juice Sports Drink helps to replenish carbohydrates and electrolytes during and after physical activity, such as running, biking, exercising or playing sports.
Find more nutritious and delicious recipes to keep your family energized during summer activities at FloridaJuice.com.
Orange Juice Citrus Chicken Kebabs
Recipe courtesy of Aaron Himrod on behalf of the Florida Department of Citrus
Servings: 8 (2 kebabs per serving)
- 1 large Florida Orange, zest only
- 1 lime, zest only
- 1/2 teaspoon ground thyme
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1/4 teaspoon granulated garlic
- 1 teaspoon salt
- white pepper, to taste
- 1 cup Florida Orange Juice
- 1 cup lemon-lime soda
- 2 pounds chicken tenders
- 8 wooden skewers
- To make marinade: In medium mixing bowl, combine orange zest; lime zest; thyme; oil; garlic; salt; white pepper, to taste; orange juice; and soda.
- Add chicken and completely coat with marinade. Cover bowl and place in refrigerator at least 1 hour.
- Soak wooden skewers in water 20-30 minutes.
- To make kebabs: Remove chicken from fridge and lace through each skewer using weaving motion. Repeat for all chicken tenders and set aside.
- When skewers are prepared, drizzle extra marinade over chicken.
- Heat grill to medium. Place chicken on grill. Cover and cook 3 minutes per side, or until center of meat reaches internal temperature of 170 F.
- Remove from grill and serve immediately, or cover with foil and serve later.
Tips: Cover kebabs with foil for at least 20 minutes after cooking to trap in flavor and juices.
Add vegetables to kebabs, if desired, to increase flavor
On-the-Go Orange Juice Sports Drink
Recipe courtesy of the Florida Department of Citrus
Servings: 1
- 8 ounces Florida Orange Juice
- 8 ounces water
- 1 pinch salt
- Mix orange juice and water.
- Add pinch of salt.
- Pour into small bottle or reusable pouch.
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Food Truths
The Truth About the “Chemical” in McDonald’s Burger Buns: Should Consumers Be Concerned?
What’s in the Burger Buns:The “yoga mat chemical” controversy changed how consumers view food additives. Here’s what azodicarbonamide is, why McDonald’s removed it, and what the science actually says.
For years, headlines and social media posts have warned consumers about a so-called “yoga mat chemical” found in hamburger buns served by major fast-food chains. The claims sparked widespread concern, prompted petitions, and eventually led several restaurant companies—including McDonald’s—to change their recipes.
But what was the chemical, and is there actually a health risk today?
What Was the Controversial Ingredient?
The ingredient at the center of the controversy was azodicarbonamide (ADA), a chemical used as a dough conditioner. It helped improve the texture of bread, making dough easier to handle and producing softer, more consistent buns.
Ironically, the same compound is also used in manufacturing certain foamed plastics, including some yoga mats and shoe soles. That connection gave rise to the viral nickname, “the yoga mat chemical.”
While the comparison was technically accurate, it also lacked important context. Food-grade azodicarbonamide and industrial applications are very different, and many chemicals have multiple uses across industries.
Why Did People Become Concerned?
The concern wasn’t simply that ADA was used in food. Scientists focused on what happens during baking.
When bread is baked, most azodicarbonamide breaks down into other compounds. Some laboratory studies involving animals raised questions about one of these breakdown products, called semicarbazide (SEM), when administered in high doses.
Those findings prompted some countries to take a more cautious regulatory approach.
Why Is It Banned in Some Countries?
The European Union and Canada do not permit azodicarbonamide as a flour treatment agent. Their food safety policies often follow the precautionary principle, removing ingredients when safer alternatives exist or when scientific uncertainty remains.
In contrast, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has determined that azodicarbonamide is safe when used within approved limits.
These differing regulations don’t necessarily mean one side believes the ingredient is dangerous while the other believes it is harmless. Instead, they reflect different philosophies about regulating food additives.
Does McDonald’s Still Use It?
No.
McDonald’s removed azodicarbonamide from its U.S. hamburger buns in 2014 following growing consumer demand for simpler ingredient lists.
Today’s buns no longer contain the ingredient, joining a broader trend among food manufacturers to eliminate additives that have become controversial with consumers.
Are There Other Ingredients Consumers Should Know About?
Modern commercial bread still contains ingredients designed to improve freshness, texture, and shelf life.
These may include:
- Calcium propionate to prevent mold
- Ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) as a dough conditioner
- Enzymes that improve consistency
- Emulsifiers that help maintain softness
These ingredients have been evaluated by food safety agencies and are generally recognized as safe when used according to regulations.
The Bigger Health Picture
Nutrition experts generally agree that focusing on one ingredient can distract from the larger issue.
The greatest health risks associated with fast food are more closely linked to:
- High sodium intake
- Excess saturated fat
- Added sugars
- Large portion sizes
- Frequent consumption of ultra-processed foods
An occasional fast-food meal is unlikely to determine someone’s long-term health. Overall dietary patterns, physical activity, sleep, and other lifestyle factors have a much greater impact.
Consumer Awareness Is Changing the Food Industry
Whether or not an ingredient poses a measurable health risk, public concern can influence corporate decisions.
Over the past decade, many food companies have reformulated products to remove controversial ingredients, reduce artificial additives, and simplify ingredient labels. In many cases, those changes have been driven as much by consumer preferences as by regulatory requirements.
The Bottom Line
The “yoga mat chemical” story captured public attention because it combined science, food safety, and memorable marketing. While azodicarbonamide was once used in some hamburger buns, including those supplied to McDonald’s, the company removed it from its U.S. buns years ago.
Current evidence suggests consumers are better served by paying attention to their overall diet rather than worrying about a single ingredient that has already disappeared from many products.
Being an informed consumer means looking beyond the headlines, understanding the science, and recognizing that nutrition is about the complete picture—not just one ingredient.
Related External Links
- U.S. FDA – Food Additives & GRAS Ingredients Information for Consumers
- U.S. FDA – Food Additives and Petitions
- FDA – Azodicarbonamide (ADA) Food Substance Database
- Electronic Code of Federal Regulations – 21 CFR §172.806 (Azodicarbonamide)
- FDA – Types of Food Ingredients and Why They’re Used
- Health Canada – Permitted Flour Treatment Agents
- McDonald’s USA – Nutrition Calculator & Ingredient Information
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(Family Features) Setting the stage for success in the classroom starts with reliable morning routines the whole family can depend on. Establishing a plan for each day before heading off for work or school is beneficial for staying on time and organized, and many families’ mornings start with a nutritious breakfast.
This school year, add better-for-you breakfast recipes like Orange Oatmeal or an Orangeberry Smoothie to the menu. These morning meals are powered by 100% orange juice, a delicious option that helps fuel the body with essential nutrients that support a healthy immune system and overall diet quality with no added sugar.
“A growing number of research studies has revealed children who regularly drink 100% orange juice have higher intakes of key nutrients, higher quality diets and may have healthier lifestyle habits, like greater physical activity levels, than children who do not drink OJ,” said Dr. Rosa Walsh, director of scientific research at the Florida Department of Citrus. “Study after study confirms that 100% orange juice not only has a place in the diets of children, but it can also serve as an easy way for parents to provide key nutrients without fear of adverse effects on body weight when served in moderation.”
Consider these nutritional benefits of Florida Orange Juice, “The Original Wellness Drink.”
Diet Quality
Because 1 cup of 100% orange juice counts as 1 cup of fruit, it’s an easy way to contribute to your children’s fruit intake. As a kid-favorite, it’s a nutrient-dense beverage that helps increase the intake of key nutrients including vitamin C, folate, thiamin, magnesium, potassium and, in fortified juices, vitamin D and calcium.
Immune Support
When paired with a healthy lifestyle, Florida Orange Juice has vitamin C, vitamin D (in fortified juices) and phytonutrients (naturally occurring plant compounds) and may help support a strong immune system.
- Vitamin C – Commonly associated with helping maintain and strengthen a healthy immune system by protecting cells and promoting the production and function of cells. One 6-8-ounce glass of OJ is an excellent source.
- Vitamin D – Plays an important role in regulating immune response and helps cells fight off bacteria and viruses that get into the body. One 6-8-ounce glass of fortified OJ is a good source.
- Plant Compounds, Flavonoids and Colorful Carotenoids – Work to support the immune system by helping to fight inflammation and helping cells communicate with each other, which can help strengthen immune response when encountering infection.
No Added Sugar
Unlike foods and beverages that contain added sugars, the natural sugar in 100% orange juice contains vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients. As one of nature’s nutrient-rich foods, OJ is a convenient way to enhance whole fruit intake and reach daily recommendations. Plus, it can be used as a substitute for nutrient-poor foods and beverages, such as sugar-sweetened beverages, in the diets of children and adults.
Find more information and recipe inspiration at FloridaCitrus.org/OJ.
Orange Oatmeal
Servings: 4
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 1 cup Florida Orange Juice
- 1 cup quick cooking steel-cut oats
- 1 Florida Orange, peeled and diced
- 1 tablespoon agave nectar or honey
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- In medium saucepan over high heat, bring water and orange juice to boil.
- Add oats to boiling liquids.
- Return to boil then reduce to medium heat and cook uncovered 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Mix in orange, agave nectar, cinnamon and salt. Remove pan from heat; let stand 1 minute before serving.
Orangeberry Smoothie
Servings: 1
- 1 cup Florida Orange Juice
- 1/2 cup frozen strawberries
- 4 ounces strawberry Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup milk
- ice cubes
- 1 Florida Orange, sliced
- In blender, blend orange juice, strawberries, yogurt, milk and ice, as needed to reach desired consistency, until smooth.
- Pour into glass and garnish with orange slice.
SOURCE:
Florida Department of Citrus
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