The elegant agave, whose very name comes from the Greek for "stately" or "august," seems an odd precursor to a potent potable, yet the pineapple-like heart of the Blue Weber variety of agave is indeed the source of Tequila. What was once merely a curiosity outside of its Mexican homeland has been elevated to the pantheon of the world's great spirits. As it has grown in popularity, there has been an inherent tension at the heart of tequila production between traditional techniques and modern innovations. While much innovation has gone to producing more and cheaper tequila, some artisanal producers are now flipping the script by experimenting with new ways create the most exciting tequilas possible

In this class, Evan Christie will lead you on an exploration of some of the best tequila producers, while examining some of the new techniques they are using to expand the world of tequila. From higher-proof releases to a revival of historic methods to the unlikely use of infusion, each tequila will represent a unique viewpoint of production. Prepare to taste the next generation in tequila, absent the homogenized, manipulated spirits that have so often dominated the tequila discussions of late.