There are always new activities at The Royal Haciendas for members and guests to enjoy during their Riviera Maya vacation. Here’s the latest, try tequila, Mexico’s national drink, at the new Tequila Tasting on Tuesdays in La Rotonda Bar.
Tequila is the fermented and distilled juice of the blue agave plant Agave Azul Tequilana Weber which grows in the fertile volcanic soils of Jalisco, principally around the towns of Tequila, Amatitán, Arandas and Atotonilco, and in small areas of the neighboring states of Nayarit, Michoacán and Guanajuato. Over 600 brands of tequila are produced in this region and attract a global following, in fact, it is one of the world’s top selling liquors.
During the La Rotonda Tequila Tasting you’ll learn about the history of tequila and the production process, starting with the harvesting of the piña or heart of the agave, which is roasted, shredded and pressed to extract the sugary juice. Yeast is then added to the juice and after 30 to 48 hours of fermentation, the juice is distilled at least twice and left to rest. It is then diluted with distilled water and the end result is tequila.
You’ll sip the different varieties of tequila: blanco, reposado and añejo and decide which is your favorite.
• Tequila blanco or white tequila is bottled immediately after being distilled. Sometimes colorants such as caramel are added to produce Tequila oro.
• Tequila reposado is white tequila that is kept in white oak casks for more than two months and up to a year. The result is a mellower flavor and bouquet.
• Tequila añejo is aged in white oak casks for more than a year, acquiring an amber color and distinctive smooth flavor. Some aged tequilas are stored in oak barrels for up to eight years and are known as Reserva.
The Tequila Tasting is from 4 to 5 p.m. on Tuesdays in La Rotonda Bar. And don’t miss the Wine Tasting on Wednesdays from 4 to 5 p.m. Reservations required.
Ask the Concierge upon arrival at the resort or check the Welcome Home Guide for more activities at The Royal Haciendas.
