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When is tequila not for shooting? How I learned to sip it like a damn adult

Editor's note: This story was written in 2016. We're bringing it back in honor of National Tequila Day on July 24.

I don't know about you, but in the past when someone ordered tequila, images of spring break parties were the first things that came to mind. I recently learned how to enjoy good tequila, and now can't believe it's the same spirit used for body shots or sold in weird pre-packaged frozen margarita packets.

The grown up me now knows that tequila isn't only table-dancing liquid courage in a shot glass. 

I recently attended a dinner featuring El Mayor Tequila. The event was hosted at the fabulous establishment Komali and included a flight of all four El Mayor tequilas:

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  • Blanco (unaged, clean and bright with some heat)
  • Reposado (aged nine months; tastes fruity and of spices)
  • Anejo (aged a minimum of 18 months; tastes like a light sweet agave)
  • Extra Anejo (aged a minimum of three and a half years; tastes like cooked agave)
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The El Mayor website says more events are coming soon and I encourage anyone interested in truly enjoying and discovering good tequila to attend a dinner. There's no better way to sample the products (plus cocktails featuring the tequila and food, which was as delicious as it was necessary due to all the discovering). In the meantime, try sipping (no shots, mmmkay?) El Mayor Tequila on its own or enjoy it in a cocktail.

Jalisco Manhattan (courtesy of El Mayor Tequila)

  • 2 oz. of El Mayor Reposado Tequila 
  • 1 oz. sweet vermouth
  • 2-3 dashes orange bitters
  • Luxardo cherry or lime twist
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Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice, shake gently. Strain into a martini glass, and garnish with Luxardo cherry or lime twist.

Booze News Insider Rachel Hart believes in the importance of expanding one's happy hour and nightcap repertoire beyond a glass of wine (although, she'll happily take one). She loves to discover creative quality spirits and cocktails and hopes you'll go on the journey with her.