Tag Archives: agave

Study Finds That Tequila Stops Aging

Spirits / April 14, 2016 / No Comments.

Wellllll, maybe that’s not entirely true. HOWEVER, the science community has recently unearthed new evidence that shows the agave plant (from which tequila is made) may contain healing properties that would treat osteoporosis! Dr. Mercedes Lopez of the Center of Research and Advanced Studies of the National Polytechnic Institute (Cinvestav) found that blue agave improves magnesium and calcium absorption in the body, resulting in better bone health. The researchers found that eating fructans (your guess is as good as ours) in blue agave and having healthy levels of intestinal flora (flowers in your bowels? possible?) helps to create new bone.

With this information, the science world is now hopeful that they could create a treatment for osteoporosis. This disease effects over 200 million people, so that would be one BFD if it turns out to be true. And at the end of the day, tequila will be the hero. We always knew you were something special, Jose. Cheers.

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Sinless Cocktails: Sweetening Drinks Without Sugar

Cocktails / July 1, 2014 / No Comments.

Summer time certainly calls for some cocktail sipping, but one sugary margarita after another will quickly turn your brisk day at the beach into one of bloating and dehydration. So what’s the fix? Obviously we aren’t going to give up on the drinks, but there’s one ingredient that is to blame—sugar.

Sure it tastes delicious, but we all know sugar has a hidden agenda. By utilizing healthier and more natural sweetener options in your cocktails, the less you’ll regret when you’ve had one mojito too many. So skip the artificial, high-in-calorie simple syrup and settle for something that’ll have you approaching the bar saying, “the more, the merrier.”

Stevia

Containing little to no calories, this natural sweetener is the ideal sugar substitute. Available in powder form (like Splenda packets), Stevia is the perfect way to serve yourself a skinny cocktail.

Freshly squeezed fruit juice

If you’re pining for something zesty, merely using fruit juice as your sweetener will make for an enjoyable refreshment. Whether you’re adding fresh strawberry juice to your Daiquiri or tomato juice to your Bloody Mary, your cocktail choices are virtually endless with this sweet selection.

Agave

Already 25% sweeter than regular sugar, this syrup originates from the Mexican Agave cactus plant. If your drink involves citrus and/or tequila, Agave is the sweetener for you. Compliment any concoction with this honey-like substance for a subtle yet fragrant taste.

Honey

From tea to tequila, honey is a classic. Still, being such a heavy sweetener with a specific flavor, honey mostly goes well in darker alcohols. Stir some honey in your next drink and experience the true essence of any whiskey or bourbon.

Maple Syrup

It may be best on breakfast food, but maple syrup can also serve other purposes. A flattering flavor to anything involving lemon and/or brown liquor (similar to honey), maple syrup is one sugary sensation that doesn’t just belong on your pancakes. Being 1.5 times as sweet as simple syrup, a lot of maple syrup goes a long way.

Have another unique way to sweeten your drink? Share it with us.

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Less Than 100% Agave? Not A Chance.

Spirits / May 25, 2014 / No Comments.

The U.S. tequila market is thriving. No surprise, seeing as we ourselves consume an insane amount of the delicious spirit. What is interesting is that since the surge of craft tequila and agave loving drinkers, our old school tequila brands are losing their luster to the 100%-ers out there.

According to reports, 100% agave tequilas have seen crazy growth lately while mixto tequila (which requires no more than 51% blue agave in its recipe) is suffering. Among the leaders: Patron, 1800, Camarena, Sauza, Hornitos and Don Julio. Ironically enough, they’re some of our favorite brands as well.

This comes as no surprise to us. Why would we pick up a bottle that didn’t have a 100% stamp on it? Not to mention all of these 100% agave brands have the backing of some pretty awesome celebs like Justin Timberlake, George Clooney and DIddy.

Do you find yourself reaching for 100% agave tequila nowadays? Or do you stick with the old 51%?

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