Tequila Tasting Toronto And Ontario – In Person or Virtual

Want to try something new? How about a tequila tasting experience? Prepare to embark on a fun tasting journey and create lasting memories.

We offer tasting events for groups or individuals. Whether you prefer a self-directed exploration or seek the guidance of a tequila expert, we are here to meet your preferences.

Join us at our licensed location, 180 Drinks, where you can immerse yourself in a world of tequila excellence. Alternatively, we bring the complete package straight to your doorstep through our convenient mobile service. For those unable to join us in person in Toronto or Ontario, or those who are seeking the convenience of virtual experiences, we offer engaging virtual tequila tasting events.

Why tequila? Tequila is a rich spirit with a rich history and richer flavours. Tequila is made from the weber blue agave plant and must be produced in one of these five states in Mexico: Jalisco, Narayit, Michoacan, Guanajuato and Tamaulipas. During your tasting experience, we will guide you through the history and intricacy of this drink and you will learn to appreciate the different flavours and aromas that tequila offers. What we want to achieve is to demystify tequila and empower you with the knowledge and skills to handle this drink with confidence.

What We Cover During Our Tequila Classes

As you join us on this tequila tasting event, you will learn everything you can about this beloved spirit. Find out about its origins, history, production processes, and learn to distinguish its rich flavour notes.

Tequila Appearance

Tequila in its most raw form typically exhibits a clear, light appearance. But that’s not always the case. Tequila can also be a light gold to a rich gold, depending on the ageing process the spirit has undergone as well as the type of wood barrel that it was stored in.

There are different types of tequila, and you will learn about how to distinguish the appearance of each:

Blanco tequila: Unaged and has a clear appearance.

Reposado tequila: This is aged for a minimum of two months and up to a year. This results in the drink having a golden colour.

Anejo tequila: Aged for at least a year and up to a maximum of three years, you will see that this has a darker, richer colour.

Extra anejo: With an ageing process of at least three years, this tequila has an intense, dark colour.

Joven tequila: This is the ‘gold’ tequila that you may have heard of. This Tequila is the result of mixing Blanco tequila with Reposado, Anejo or extra Anejo tequilas

Tequila Aroma

Tequila is a complex spirit, with experts reckoning that there are more than 600 distinct aroma components to the spirit.

Tequila’s distinctive and complex aroma is influenced by its production methods and the ageing process.

Common aromas found in tequila include notes of agave, which can range from herbal and earthy to floral and fruity. Additional aromas may be present, such as citrus, caramel, vanilla, oak, and spice.

The aroma of tequila is an important aspect of the tasting experience, providing insights into its quality and flavour profile.

Tequila Taste

Tequila offers a diverse range of flavours that can vary depending on the type of tequila and its ageing process.

When tasting tequila, you can expect to encounter the distinct taste of agave, which forms the foundation of its flavour profile. This can range from herbal and vegetal notes to sweeter, fruity undertones. This is probably the primary tasting note that you will first get to learn.

But not all tequilas are created equal. Blanco or silver tequila often exhibits a crisp and vibrant flavour profile with a pronounced agave taste, sometimes accompanied by hints of citrus and pepper. Reposado tequila, which as you would read earlier, is aged for a few months in oak barrels, develops additional complexities with flavours of vanilla, caramel, and subtle oak influence.

Añejo and extra añejo tequilas, aged for longer periods, offer rich and smooth profiles. These aged tequilas showcase more pronounced oak characteristics, with notes of chocolate, coffee, and even dried fruits.

Tequila Knowledge

During the tequila tasting experience, our goal is to provide you with essential tequila knowledge, covering production methods, interrelationships, and its versatile use in cocktails. Here’s an overview of each topic we explore during the tour:

Production Methods: Tequila is crafted using specific production methods that lend depth and complexity. From the cultivation and harvest of blue agave plants to the cooking, fermentation, and distillation processes, we delve into the diverse techniques used to create tequila. You’ll learn about the different styles of tequila, including blanco (unaged), reposado (aged), añejo (extra-aged), and extra añejo (ultra-aged), and how these methods contribute to the unique characteristics of each.

History: Tequila has a rich and fascinating history that dates back to the 16th century in Mexico. It originated in the town of Tequila in the state of Jalisco, and its production has since become an integral part of Mexican culture. During the tour, you’ll learn about the evolution of tequila production and its significance in Mexican heritage.

Interrelationships: Tequila shares intriguing interrelationships with other spirits. We explore the connections and influences that shape the world of tequila. For example, did you know that ex-bourbon barrels are commonly used to age tequila? You’ll gain insights into the shared techniques and cask influences between tequila and other spirits, providing a deeper understanding of the broader beverage industry.

Use in Cocktails: Tequila is a versatile spirit that can be used as a key component in crafting a wide range of cocktails. From classic cocktails like the Margarita and Paloma to innovative creations, we showcase how tequila can enhance the flavours and textures of cocktails, adding depth and character to your drink experience.

By the end of the tequila tour, participants will have gained a solid foundation in tequila tasting terminology and a comprehensive perspective on the world of tequila.

Whether you’re a tequila novice or an experienced enthusiast, our tour will enrich your knowledge, enabling you to appreciate tequila on a whole new level.

In Person And Virtual Tequila Tasting Formats

Self Guided

Some of you may want to delight in this drink at your own pace. We understand. Which is why we have our self-guided tequila tasting kits.

Indulge in the pleasures of tequila at your preferred pace with our self-guided tequila tasting events. Immerse yourself in the world of tequila with our carefully crafted tequila tasting kits, which include:

A curated selection of tequila samples, thoughtfully chosen to showcase a variety of flavours and styles.
A comprehensive guide on how to taste tequila, essential knowledge about the spirit, and an overview of each tequila in the kit, including detailed tasting notes.
Optional note cards, a tasting glass to enhance your experience, and food pairings to complement the tequilas.

To explore further and discover more about our self-guided tequila tasting kits, please click the link below.

Shop Tequila Tasting Kits

In Person Tequila Master Class

Prepare yourself for an exciting tequila tasting journey! Immerse yourself in our private, in-person master class led by a knowledgeable tequila expert who will guide you through an immersive and educational experience.

Experience the flexibility of our mobile tequila tasting class, where we bring the tequila tasting adventure to your preferred location.

Alternatively, you can join us at our dedicated tasting room at 180 Drinks, designed to provide the perfect atmosphere for exploring tequilas.

Our in-person tequila tasting master class includes:

Tasting Kit: A carefully curated selection of 5 to 6 tequila samples, thoughtfully chosen to showcase a diverse range of flavours and styles.

Tequila Tasting Guide: Accompanying the tasting, an informative guide will provide detailed information about each tequila, guiding you through the tasting process and enriching your understanding of the spirits. But of course, your guide will be on hand, guiding you every step of the way.

Global Tequila Selection: Embark on a journey through the diverse world of tequila. Discover the unique characteristics and flavours that define each tequila style.

Glasses: You may have thought that tequila is just to be had in a shot glass. There are special tequila glasses designed to enhance the flavour and aroma of the tequila.

Bottle of Water: We provide a bottle of water to cleanse your palate between tastings, ensuring you fully appreciate the subtle nuances of each tequila.

Optional Chocolate Tasting and Snack Pairings: Elevate your tequila tasting adventure by adding optional chocolate tasting or curated snack pairings. These carefully selected pairings are designed to complement the tequila flavours and enhance your overall enjoyment.

Optional Table Rentals: If you require additional seating or table space for your tequila tasting event, we offer optional table rentals to accommodate your specific needs.

Contact us today to receive a personalised quote and start planning your tequila tasting master class. Uncover the captivating world of tequila, explore its fascinating flavours, and create enduring memories with an unforgettable tasting experience.

Virtual Tequila Tasting or Hybrid (In-Person & Online Tequila Tasting)

A virtual tequila tasting experience is a fun and interactive way to learn about different types of tequila from the comfort of your own home. We understand that not everyone can make it to an in-person tequila tasting event.

So, we created the virtual tequila tasting experience or a hybrid event!

Here’s what you can expect if you choose the virtual tequila tasting experience:

Tequila samples: We send a kit that includes 5 to 6 samples of different types of tequila.

Tasting glass: While this is optional, we recommend the use of special tequila tasting glasses to elevate your experience.

Tasting notes and guides: Our detailed notes will provide you with tasting notes as well as background information on the spirit.

Overall, a virtual tequila tasting experience is a great way to learn about different types of tequila and have fun with others from the comfort of your own home.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I prepare for a self-guided tequila tasting event?

We are glad you asked! While you can make use of our handy tequila tasting kits, there are things you can do to prepare:

Use a tasting sheet: This will help you record your notes on each of the tequilas we have sent you. Comparing and contrasting different tequila notes is one of the most fun things you can do!

Use the right glassware: While you can opt to choose our tequila tasting glassware rentals, you can also prepare with the glassware you have at home.

Take breaks: Cleanse your palate with water between tastings. This will help you appreciate the flavours and aromas more intensely.

Enjoy responsibly: Tequila is best enjoyed in moderation. Make sure that you balance your drinks and have a designated driver to drive you home after the event or plan to stay at home.

How should I store my tequila before the event?

To maximise the shelf life of your tequila, we suggest the following:

Store in a cool, dry place: Keep the tequila bottle away from direct sunlight or heat sources such as radiators. A wardrobe or kitchen cupboard will do just fine.

Always store tequila in the original bottle. Ensure that the bottle cap is tightly sealed. Oxidation can cause the flavours and aromas to deteriorate.

And yes, don’t store your tequila in the freezer!

I booked a tequila tasting experience. But I need to cancel. What can I do?

We understand that the best-laid plans can sometimes fail. Please check in with us in such an eventuality.

What is the difference between tequila and mezcal tasting?

Tequila and mezcal are both agave-based distilled spirits, but they differ in terms of flavour and production processes. One way to put it is that all tequila is mezcal but not all mezcal is tequila.

Tequila can only be made from one kind of agave: the Blue Weber Agave.

Mezcal is a vast category of spirits that can be made from more than 50 different types of agave. Both the spirits differ in terms of taste. Tequila can often have sweet notes, while mezcal has a more smoky quality.

Can I do tequila or mezcal tasting classes at 180 Drinks?

Absolutely! We are licensed for up to 25 guests for mezcal tasting at our location: 400 Matheson Blvd E Unit 20, Mississauga, ON L4Z 1N8

If your guest count is greater than 25 guests we can also travel to your location in Ontario. Please see which areas we serve below.

What are the best tequila cocktails?

Tequila is a versatile spirit that forms the base for many delicious cocktails.

Here are some of the best tequila cocktails you can try:

Margarita: An old classic
Paloma
Tequila Sunrise
Tequila Daisy
Mexican Mule
Tequila Sour

This list isn’t extensive. Tequila lends itself well to many cocktails, and a well-crafted tequila cocktail is a delight to sip.

Do you offer a tequila or mezcal tasting bar for events?

Absolutely! This is a great option for a more high-level tequila tasting event. Our tequila tasting bars are tailored to your service to your requirements and budget.

Get in touch today for a quote on a tequila tasting bar for your next corporate event, party, or wedding!

Do you do non-alcoholic tastings?

We understand that some individuals prefer non-alcoholic options. We are delighted to offer a non-alcoholic tequila tasting experience for those who wish to enjoy the flavours and aromas of tequila without consuming alcohol. Cheers to you! Cheers to you!

What platform do you use for your virtual tequila tastings?

We realize that different customers have different platforms they prefer to use. At 180 Drinks we are platform agnostic, so for your virtual tequila tasting event, we can provide the virtual platform, or we can adapt to use your own platform. For example, if you prefer to do a Zoom tequila tasting we can accommodate this. Other platforms commonly used are Microsoft Teams, Google Meet, or Webex.

What areas do you serve in Ontario for your tequila classes?

For virtual tequila and mezcal tasting experiences, we serve all of Ontario.

For in-person private tequila tasting Toronto and Ontario experiences at your location, we serve the the following cities:

Ajax
Aurora
Barrie
Brampton
Brant
Brantford
Burlington
Caledon
Cambridge
Fort Erie
Grimsby
Guelph
Halton Hills
Hamilton
Ingersoll
King City
Kitchener
Lincoln
London
Markham
Milton
Mississauga
Newmarket
Niagara Falls
Niagara-on-the-Lake
Oakville
Oshawa
Pelham
Pickering
Port Colborne
Richmond Hill
Schomberg
Catharines
Stratford
Thorold
Toronto (Downtown Core, East End, East York, Etobicoke, GTA, North York, North End, Old Toronto, Scarborough, West End, and York)
Vaughan
Waterloo
Stratford
Welland
Whitby
Woodbridge
Woodstock

Get in touch today for your next in person or virtual tequila tasting Toronto event!