|  | Thursday is National Tequila Day and this special edition is all about tequila. I think it's one of the most fascinating spirits because of its production and unique flavor profile and it all begins with the agave, a majestic plant that I've come to have much respect for. So, with no further ado... Viva Tequila! Follow me on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, and now Pinterest. | | Tequila Primer Tequila was just another liquor to me before I traveled to Jalisco and had the full tequila experience. From the jimadores harvesting agave in the fields to the massive tahona wheels that some distilleries still use to get that magical juice, it is simply fascinating. That doesn't even begin to get into the differences in tequilas which go beyond brand and barrel time, there are also regional nuances within the confines of the production areas so a tequila from the town of Tequila tastes different than those from the red dirt highlands of Los Altos. All tequilas are not created equally and here's a start to your tequila education. It's time for tequila...
| New Recipe: Cucumber Mint Margarita The name of this drink alludes to a fresh, cooling cocktail, but there's a surprise and it is thanks to the brand behind the drink. I received the recipe via Tabasco and that should tell you that there's a little more to this margarita than cucumber and mint. Give it a try, it is a fantastic contrast and you can make it as spicy as you like. Get the recipe...
| New Recipe: Spicy Paloma I have a thing for spicy tequila cocktails. If you add hot sauce or a pepper to a tequila drink, you will grab my attention because the two flavors are perfect matches, especially when you add a little fresh fruit to back it up. This is another new recipe that comes from Stone Rose Lounge in NYC and it is a great update to an old favorite. You'll love the infusion too, because it only takes a few minutes to get the perfect amount of spice in the Aperol. Get the recipe...
| If You Haven't Had These Tequila Cocktails... ...then you need to make a point to mix one up in honor of National Tequila Day (hey, it's an excuse!). There are too many tequila cocktails out there to keep track of, but there are a few that are absolutely essential to a balanced tequila experience. These ten cocktails serve as an inspirational base for so many drinks and are a great way to explore tequila's full flavor potential. Explore the essentials...
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