Tequila on the rise: Mixologists, restaurateurs dwell on the spirit's popularity

Bitter Strong Fiery Some of these adjectives associated with tequila might underestimate the rising popularity of this agavebased spirit from the heartlands of Mexico A recent survey by International Wines and Spirits Record IWSR in June pointed out an overall rise of four percent in agave and tequila spirits sales across the market While agavebased spirits include other forms such as reposado mezcal and antildeejo versions it was tequila that dominated the market Over the last five years the spirit has seen a rise in sales to over 80000 cases Herersquos what city mixologists restaurateurs and industry experts to highlight this trendStrong and versatileAmi Shroff flair mixologist and jugglerStrangely I have noticed that Indian trends tend to follow European markets For the last few years tequila has been growing in popularity in Europe Its exclusivity and rarity are reasons that it took some time for people to understand If you think about it traditionally fermented drinks are not often bottled and marketed well In India feni and mahua are examples that hardly get international attention They like tequila have unique flavour profiles that take getting used to As their exposure grows they are appreciated better Though there are no restrictions tequila complements spicy and refreshing flavours bestSpicy tequilaIngredients 20 ml star fruit juice 10 ml lime juice 15 ml jaggery syrup or sweetener of choice 1 chilli muddledMethodAdd the chilli to the glass and muddle it Add starfruit juice lime juice and jaggery syrup into the glass Shake and strain the mix into a glass of choice Garnish with a starfruit sliceRecipe courtesy Ami ShroffSpirit of the momentAryaan Sundaram bar operations executive Monika AlcobevI do not see the statistics as an aberration but rather a shift to the spirit The global exposure tequila has received and the adventurous nature of the Indian customer has added to its rise Spirits go through trends Two years ago it was gin Now it is tequila There is a giveandtake relationship with the culinary landscape as well A growing interest in Mexican cuisine exploration of flavours contributes to the interest in tequila This interest will grow as the yearprogressesPositioned as a premium spirit for connoisseursDevender Negi assistant beverage manager Charlee KharConsumers are increasingly willing to pay more for higher quality spirits and tequila has been positioned as a premium option Highquality tequilas have gained popularity among consumers looking for unique and sophisticated drinking experiences They are also perceived as a healthier option owing to their lower sugar content The advantage is that tequilarsquos bold flavour adds depth and character to drinks and is a favourite among mixologists looking to create a unique drinkSuits the Indian palateRizwan Amlani partner MezcalitaThe versatility of tequila and its distinct flavour profile has led to more guests opting for tequila over the traditional choice of whiskeys or other cocktails In the past many people associated them primarily with shots and party culture Now enthusiasts are increasingly interested in exploring tequila and mezcal for their complex flavours and versatility in cocktailsThe distinctive smoky flavour also pairs well with other ingredients like citrus herbs and spices which the Indian palate loves And because bartenders are enjoying experimenting with the spirit more cocktails with the spirit are being put on the menuAs more people become familiar with the versatility and richness of tequila and the market for highquality artisanal spirits expands we expect tequila to become a staple in the Indian beverage sceneThe Cha Chinga mezcal margaritaIngredients 2 oz mezcal 1 oz lime juice 12 oz agave nectar Salt for rimming optionalMethodRim a glass with salt if desired Combine the mezcal lime juice and agave nectar in a shaker filled with ice Shake until well chilled Strain into the prepared glass over ice Garnish with a lime wedge and enjoyRecipe courtesy Rizwan AmlaniFor your tequila fix Poco Loco Tapas amp BarAT Ground floor 21st RoadKhar WestCALL 919324191366 Madeira and MimeAT Trans Ocean House Hiranandani Business Park Powai CALL 9324191366 The FinchAT Shah Industrial Estate Saki Vihar Road PowaiCALL 9920910619 Woodside InnAT Indian Mercantile Mansion opposite Regal Cinema ColabaCALL 9321728192 SAZ American BrasserieAT Ground floorJio World Drive BKCCALL 9920056686