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.
SOURCE:
Food and Beverage
4 Daily Brain Health Habits for Better Cognition
Daily Brain Health Habits: Your brain works hard for you, so it’s only fair to return the favor by practicing simple everyday habits to keep this important organ strong and thriving. Start by tweaking your daily routine to focus on these four habits and eating nourishing recipes like California Grape and Sardine Avocado Toast.
4 Daily Brain Health Habits for Better Cognition
(Feature Impact) Your brain works hard for you, so it’s only fair to return the favor by practicing simple everyday habits to keep this important organ strong and thriving.
Start by tweaking your daily routine to focus on these four habits.
Prioritize Sleep
Getting quality sleep is vital for proper brain function. If you find you’ve slipped into the habit of staying up later than you should or notice your sleep being disrupted during the night, those are signs to revisit your sleep hygiene practices. Start by establishing a regular bedtime and wake-up time that will give you the recommended 7-9 hours of sleep. Turn your bedroom into a comfortable refuge from the world – keep it cool and dark, and set up fans or noise machines if you need them to quiet your mind. Avoid consuming caffeine or alcohol too close to bedtime and try switching to a book instead of a screen when it’s time to wind down.
Eat Smart
Just like the rest of the body, the brain is nourished by food. Some of its favorite foods are options rich in healthy fats like fish, avocado, olive oil and nuts, as well as vegetables like leafy greens, which offer carotenoids, and fruits such as grapes, which deliver antioxidants and other polyphenols.
Combine several of these powerful brain-boosting foods at once with this California Grape and Sardine Avocado Toast recipe. The fish is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and the avocado offers a boost of healthy unsaturated fat, while the grapes add protective dietary flavonols, which may help promote anti-inflammatory and beneficial antioxidant activity.
A study published in the scientific journal “Neurology” found a higher intake of certain flavonols – including three naturally found in grapes – is associated with a 48% decreased risk of developing Alzheimer dementia.
Get Moving
Adding even more proof that what’s good for your body is good for your mind, getting regular exercise is one of the best things you can do for your brain. Motivate yourself by choosing a form of movement you genuinely enjoy, whether it’s a daily walk on a nearby nature trail, a dance class, a bike ride or a heart-pumping workout video.
Challenge Your Mind
Don’t forget to give your brain its own workout, too. Doing something mentally stimulating every day is a great way to keep yourself sharp, and there are plenty of ideas to choose from. Try learning a new language, picking up a musical instrument, playing a mind-engaging card or board game, doing a puzzle, reading a book or immersing yourself in a creative writing or art project. The options are nearly endless, and if you want to make your brain extra happy, you can snack on handfuls of grapes as you enjoy your hobby.
Learn more about the connection between grapes and brain health and discover more recipes by visiting GrapesFromCalifornia.com.
California Grape and Sardine Avocado Toast
Prep time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4
- 1 large firm, ripe avocado, halved and pitted
- 4 small slices rustic whole grain bread (1/2-inch thick), toasted or grilled
- 1 individual container sardines in olive oil or water, drained
- 1/2 cup quartered red and black Grapes from California
- Aleppo pepper flakes
- fresh cilantro, snipped
- 1 lemon half
- salt (optional)
- With spoon, scoop avocado out of skin and use fork to coarsely mash.
- Spread onto bread slices and top with whole or torn sardines. Sprinkle grapes over sardines.
- Top with generous sprinkle of Aleppo pepper, cilantro, squeeze of fresh lemon and salt, if desired.
Nutritional information per serving: 290 calories; 11 g protein; 29 g carbohydrates; 16 g fat (50% calories from fat); 2.5 g saturated fat (8% calories from saturated fat); 20 mg cholesterol; 210 mg sodium; 6g fiber.
SOURCE:
California Table Grape Commission
💪 Your health journey starts here! Explore the latest health news, fitness tips, wellness trends, and healthy living advice. Share your thoughts in the comments and subscribe to the STM Daily News newsletter to stay informed and inspired every day.
Every year on the first Friday in August, beer lovers around the world come together to celebrate International Beer Day. In 2026, the celebration falls on Friday, August 7, offering the perfect opportunity to discover new brews, support local breweries, and enjoy time with friends.
Founded in 2007 in Santa Cruz, California, International Beer Day has grown into a global event observed in dozens of countries. The celebration recognizes not only the beverage itself but also the brewers, bartenders, servers, and everyone who helps bring beer from the brewery to your glass.
Whether you’re a fan of crisp lagers, hoppy IPAs, rich stouts, refreshing wheat beers, or adventurous sour ales, International Beer Day is a great excuse to step outside your comfort zone and sample something new. Many breweries and pubs celebrate with special releases, tasting flights, live entertainment, brewery tours, and food pairings.
As the craft beer movement continues to flourish across the United States, this annual celebration is also a reminder of the creativity and community that local breweries bring to neighborhoods large and small.
If you decide to celebrate, remember to drink responsibly, arrange for a designated driver or rideshare if needed, and support your favorite local brewery.
Cheers to International Beer Day!
Related Links
- 4 Daily Brain Health Habits for Better Cognition
Daily Brain Health Habits: Your brain works hard for you, so it’s only fair to return the favor by practicing simple everyday habits to keep this important organ strong and thriving. Start by tweaking your daily routine to focus on these four habits and eating nourishing recipes like California Grape and Sardine Avocado Toast. - Raise a Glass: Celebrate International Beer Day on August 7
Every year on the first Friday in August, beer lovers around the world come together to celebrate International Beer Day. In 2026, the celebration falls on Friday, August 7, offering the perfect opportunity to discover new brews, support local breweries, and enjoy time with friends. Founded in 2007 in Santa Cruz, California, International Beer Day has grown into a… Read more: Raise a Glass: Celebrate International Beer Day on August 7 - Protein-Packed Snacking for Back-to-School Season
Back-to-School Season: As busy families prepare for hectic school days, it can be invaluable to have nutritious grab-and-go options on hand for lunches and snacks. Having one less thing to worry about makes a difference when you’re juggling work, school, sports practices and games, and other extracurriculars while trying to keep everyone fed and happy. - 5 Tips to Make Hosting Easy and Fun
From celebratory parties to casual get-togethers, hosting is a wonderful way to bring people together, share laughs and make memories. Of course, planning and hosting can be quite a bit of work, so a little preparation can go a long way to ensure an enjoyable time for everyone, including the host. - The Nutrient-Packed Fruit Families are Adding to Their Fruit Bowls
Busy families are looking for snacks that do more than simply satisfy hunger – they want foods that deliver great taste along with meaningful nutrition. Nutrient-Packed Fruit? For a fresh twist on breakfast, brunch or an afternoon snack, try this Kiwi and Whipped Feta Toast.
🍽️ Love discovering great food and drink? Join the conversation! Share your thoughts in the comments and subscribe to the STM Daily News Food and Drink newsletter for the latest recipes, restaurant news, food trends, and culinary stories delivered straight to your inbox.
Food and Beverage
Protein-Packed Snacking for Back-to-School Season
Back-to-School Season: As busy families prepare for hectic school days, it can be invaluable to have nutritious grab-and-go options on hand for lunches and snacks. Having one less thing to worry about makes a difference when you’re juggling work, school, sports practices and games, and other extracurriculars while trying to keep everyone fed and happy.
Last Updated on August 6, 2026 by Daily News Staff
Protein-Packed Snacking for Back-to-School Season
(Feature Impact) As busy families prepare for hectic school days, it can be invaluable to have nutritious grab-and-go options on hand for lunches and snacks. Having one less thing to worry about makes a difference when you’re juggling work, school, sports practices and games, and other extracurriculars while trying to keep everyone fed and happy.
Watch this video to learn more
Since protein is an important nutrient for energy and satiety, choosing options like PB2Go Cups could be the perfect solution. As the pioneer of powdered peanut butter, PB2 has made it more portable than ever with the introduction of their new, on-the-go cups.
With 10-11 grams of protein per cup, they’re easy to toss in a lunchbox or backpack, offering a convenient way to keep your family powered up through the afternoon. Simply add water to the fill line, stir with the built-in spoon and enjoy the Original or Chocolate Chip flavors on their own or as a dip with pretzels, crackers, apple slices or bananas for more flavor and fun during your snack break.
“Between packed lunches, busy schedules, and after-school activities, convenient protein options are a game changer,” said registered dietitian Mia Syn, a food and nutrition expert. “That’s why I love PB2Go Cups. With a built-in spoon in the lid, they’re ready to toss in a lunch box, backpack, or gym bag and enjoy wherever the day takes you.”
Whether you’re tackling early-morning school prep or searching for a ready-when-you-are snack to keep in your locker, powdered peanut butter is a healthy, satisfying choice. No stress and no mess makes for a winning combination, and families who value balanced nutrition will appreciate having a quick, pre-portioned source of protein on hand when their schedules are full.
For more information, visit PB2.com.
SOURCE:
🍴 What’s your favorite food, recipe, or dining spot? Tell us in the comments! Then subscribe to the STM Daily News newsletter for fresh recipes, restaurant news, food trends, and delicious stories delivered straight to your inbox. Join our growing community of food lovers today!
Visit our Food and Drink page!
