Ilove a great Margarita! This Spicy Jalapeño Cucumber Margarita is both crisp and refreshing – without the added sugar and calories. I find most American-ized margaritas to be far too sweet. Most are made with sugars, and syrups. All that does is make my waist line expand and my hangover the next day so much worse.

The tequila I used in this margarita is a Reposado from a local distillery in Cozumel, Mexico. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been to Cozumel – a beautiful, friendly island off the Eastern coast of Mexico. I found this incredible shop that had over 200 varieties of authentic tequila and the shop owner taught me a lot about tequila. That’s where I learned about the different classes of tequila and discovered my love of reposado.

There are 5 Distinct Types of Tequila

Tequila Blanco or Silver is a clear white tequila. It is un-aged. Which means it goes directly from distilling straight into the bottle. This can be a bit harsh or hot, so it’s not a tequila I would choose to sip on. However it does hold up in cocktails and is typically what most bars will use in mixed drinks.

Tequila Joven or Gold gets it’s name from the rich golden-brown colour. The colour however is actually achieved by added sugars, flavourings and even oak extracts in an effort to imitate the better quality aged tequilas.  Some Joven or Gold tequilas are actually Tequila Blanco mixed with other tequilas. It tends to be much cheaper so is quite often used only for cocktails.

Reposado Tequila is aged, or “rested” for 2 – 12 months after distilling. The barrels used are different varieties of wood and give the tequila a smooth, warm finish. As the tequila ages it takes on a soft golden caramel hue. Reposado can certainly be used in cocktails but it is so smooth that I highly recommend sipping it neat or over ice.

Añejo Tequila is aged for 1- 3 years in much smaller barrels. This ensure every drop reacts with the wood. The longer time intensifies the notes, darkens the colour and produces an even richer flavour. This is not a tequila you would use in a cocktail.

Extra Añejo Tequila is aged just like añejo tequila but remains in the barrel over 3 years. This class of tequila has only been recognized since 2006 so it is relatively new on the scene. The rich mahogany colour comes with a much higher alcohol content and needs to be cut with water. As you can imagine a tequila with this kind of care and time goes for top dollar.