Mexican embassy hosts tequila tastings

The Embassy of Mexico, in collaboration with the National Chamber of the Tequila Industry (CNIT), held a series of tequila tastings on September 10-11 in Port of Spain to promote tequila to the local liquor industry.

The tequila tastings at the Hyatt and The Brix hotel, brought together prominent tequila marketers and distributors, members of the hotels, restaurants and spirits industry who had the opportunity to immerse themselves in the art and culture of tequila, the iconic drink of Mexico, said a media release from the embassy.

Victor Martinez Quezada, renowned tequila connoisseur and representative of the CNIT, conducted the tastings. Quezada guided attendees through the three main varieties of tequila: silver, aged and extra aged. Through detailed explanations, participants learned about the production process, from the harvest of the agave to the maturation in oak barrels, and enjoyed the unique nuances of each of these categories, the release said.

At the first event on September 10, at the embassy, wines and spirits distributors and traders were in attendance. On September 11, the Hyatt event targeted bartenders and hospitality professionals. At this event, Quezada offered a deep immersion into tasting techniques and how tequila can be used in cocktails and pairings. The third session was directed towards partners of Solera Wines & Spirits, one of the most important beverage distributors in Trinidad and Tobago.

During the tastings participants enjoyed and explored the versatility of tequila, with margaritas, and witnessed the creation of the Mexican Scarlett Ibis cocktail, a contribution from Mexico to Trinidadian mixology as a result of the visit of the tequila expert, the release said.

Tequila has transcended borders and has established itself as a symbol of Mexican culture in the world. With an annual production of more than 598 million litres and exports to more than 120 countries, the tequila industry generates more than 100,000 jobs and represents a relevant part of the Mexican liquor industry, the release said. In 2023, tequila exports reached 399 million litres, with the United States being the main market with more than 80 per cent of the exported volume.

The embassy said the presence of expert Quezada and the tastings were aimed at promoting tequila as a premium drink, as well as at strengthening trade and cultural ties between Mexico and TT.