You Need A Flute Glass If You Want To Properly Taste Tequila

Scrap the shot glass, and forget the lime wedge; it's time to give tequila the respect it deserves, starting with proper glassware. Despite the fact that the liquor has had a reputation for being the essential party drink, it has slowly but surely been undergoing a revolution of respect. As the spirit is becoming increasingly more sophisticated, it's time that we learn how to taste tequila properly — and yes, it involves sipping from a flute glass.

Crafted by distilling the fermented juice of the Weber blue agave plant, The Atlantic explains that while tequila's history may date back to the 17th century, it didn't gain widespread popularity in the U.S. until the 1970s. Although most tequila that was first available to consumers was mixto and served as a shot or in sugary cocktails, Liquor explains the industry has since evolved thanks to better production — and those who marketed the liquor as a status symbol — along with bartenders who worked to showcase the spirit. With the creation of agave-only cocktail bars and the rise of celebrity tequila brands, NPR says that the spirit is quickly becoming synonymous with refinement.

Given the popularity and availability of quality tequilas, the alcoholic beverage begs to be sipped and savored. But, to do this, proper glassware is required. Just like wine and other spirits, tequila also requires a specific glass in order to better evaluate its color, aroma, and flavor.

Aside from tequila sniffers, many professionals and aficionados agree that the champagne flute is the best medium to evaluate tequila. Given its elongated and sometimes tapered shape, Departures explains that as tequila is poured, more oxygen is able to come into contact with the spirit, drawing aromas to the rim of the glass — the aeration even softens the liquor, making for a more palatable experience. Consequently, the mineral, fruity, floral, herbaceous, earthy, and spicy notes from the agave can be perceived more easily.

Since imbibing in liquors is a multi-sensory experience as well, Food & Wine also shares that using a flute glass can also amp up aesthetics and signal to drinkers that the liquor is one that is meant to be appreciated and enjoyed slowly rather than all at once.

Want to really make the most out of tequila tastings? After giving your glass a swirl to evaluate its body, Patrón Tequila recommends swirling again and then tilting the glass to evaluate its aroma before taking a sip to prime your palate and then another one with a slow breath and pursed lips. After swallowing, think about which flavors are most prominent, along with any impressions of the tequila. Just like that, you can now sip tequila like a pro!