The variations in shade, aroma, and taste profiles inside the tequila class are primarily attributed to differing manufacturing strategies, significantly growing older processes and the addition of sure substances. Two distinguished sorts exhibiting these contrasts are differentiated by their look: one clear and the opposite golden. These visible cues typically point out elementary variations in how every spirit is produced and finally, what expertise they provide the buyer.
Understanding these distinctions is essential for knowledgeable consumption. The growing older course of considerably impacts the spirit’s smoothness, complexity, and total high quality. Realizing whether or not a specific tequila has been aged in oak barrels or has had coloring added influences not solely its style but in addition its perceived worth. Moreover, discerning between sorts can information shoppers towards choosing a product that aligns with their most popular style preferences and supposed makes use of, from crafting cocktails to sipping neat.
This exploration will delve into the nuances of those two tequila expressions, protecting manufacturing strategies, taste profiles, potential components, and very best consumption strategies. The dialogue goals to supply a complete understanding of what units them aside.
1. Coloration
Probably the most instantly obvious distinction lies within the shade. Silver tequila, additionally ceaselessly labeled as Blanco or Plata, displays a transparent, clear look. This absence of shade is a direct consequence of its manufacturing course of, which usually entails bottling instantly after distillation or a brief resting interval, normally no various weeks, in stainless-steel tanks. The spirit’s inherent character, derived from the agave plant, stays unaltered by any affect from wooden growing older or components.
In distinction, Gold tequila presents a golden hue, typically achieved by means of one in all two strategies. In some cases, it’s the results of mixing silver tequila with a small proportion of aged tequila, equivalent to Reposado or Aejo. Nonetheless, it’s also frequent apply to artificially shade silver tequila with caramel coloring or different components to imitate the looks of aged varieties. This manipulation is primarily accomplished to boost perceived worth or masks imperfections within the base spirit. Subsequently, the golden shade doesn’t invariably point out true growing older.
The colour discrepancy serves as a vital preliminary indicator of potential variations in taste profile, manufacturing strategies, and total high quality. Whereas a golden hue might recommend a smoother, extra advanced spirit ensuing from growing older, shoppers should fastidiously look at labels and producer data to determine whether or not the colour is of course derived from barrel growing older or artificially induced. This understanding is paramount for making knowledgeable decisions and appreciating the nuances inside the tequila class.
2. Getting old
Getting old serves as a major differentiator between Silver and Gold tequilas, considerably impacting taste profiles and total traits. The growing older course of, or lack thereof, defines every kind and contributes to client notion and supposed utilization.
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Impression on Taste Profile
Silver tequila, unaged or briefly rested, retains the uncooked, vegetal taste of the agave. Getting old imparts notes of vanilla, caramel, and oak, influencing the spirit’s complexity. The length and kind of wooden used form these flavors. The disparity in growing older leads to markedly completely different sensory experiences between the 2 tequila sorts.
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Impact on Coloration and Aroma
Silver tequila stays clear as a result of absence of wooden interplay. Getting old introduces shade, starting from mild straw to deep amber, together with corresponding fragrant adjustments. The wooden’s tannins and different compounds contribute to each shade and aroma complexity, absent in Silver tequilas.
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Affect on Smoothness
Getting old usually softens the spirit, lowering harshness and growing perceived smoothness. The interplay with the wooden mellows the agave’s sharper edges, leading to a extra palatable expertise for a lot of. Silver tequila, missing this mellowing impact, typically presents a bolder, extra assertive character.
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Regulatory Definitions and Classes
Official tequila classifications, equivalent to Blanco/Silver, Reposado, and Aejo, are based mostly on growing older durations. Gold tequila, typically not adhering to those strict requirements, might contain components to imitate the consequences of growing older. Understanding these regulatory frameworks helps shoppers discern between genuinely aged tequilas and people artificially coloured.
The presence or absence of growing older defines the core traits of Silver and Gold tequilas. Whereas Silver showcases the pure agave taste, growing older transforms the spirit, imparting shade, aroma, and complexity. Understanding these distinctions permits shoppers to make knowledgeable decisions based mostly on their preferences for taste profile and total consuming expertise.
3. Components
The divergence between gold and silver tequila typically hinges on the presence and nature of components. Rules allow the inclusion of sure components, as much as 1% of the whole quantity, in tequila labeled as “Tequila” (versus “100% Agave Tequila”). These components, primarily caramel coloring, sugar-based syrups, glycerin, and oak extract, are employed to melt the tequila’s style or modify its shade. Gold tequila ceaselessly incorporates these components to simulate the looks and perceived smoothness of aged tequila, even when the spirit has not undergone vital barrel growing older. Conversely, silver tequila, significantly these labeled “100% Agave,” is usually free from such additions, presenting the pure taste profile of the distilled agave spirit. This distinction considerably contributes to the general sensory expertise and authenticity related to every kind of tequila.
Contemplate the implications of those components on client notion. A gold tequila, enhanced with caramel coloring, might visually recommend age and complexity, doubtlessly deceptive shoppers into believing they’re buying a higher-quality, barrel-aged product. This misleading apply underscores the significance of scrutinizing labels and understanding the distinctions between “Tequila” and “100% Agave Tequila.” Components, whereas permitted, can masks imperfections within the base spirit or create a misunderstanding of worth, impacting the buyer’s means to make knowledgeable decisions based mostly on real taste and manufacturing strategies. For instance, a silver tequila labeled “100% Agave” ensures the absence of added sugars or coloring, providing a extra genuine illustration of the agave’s character.
In abstract, the function of components in differentiating gold and silver tequila is substantial. Whereas silver tequila, particularly these of the “100% Agave” selection, emphasizes purity and the unadulterated agave taste, gold tequila typically makes use of components to imitate the traits of aged spirits. This apply will be each informative and deceptive, underscoring the necessity for shoppers to fastidiously look at product labels and perceive the implications of those additions on style, authenticity, and total worth. The knowledgeable client can then navigate the tequila panorama with a deeper appreciation for the manufacturing nuances that outline every kind.
4. Taste Profile
The flavour profile represents a essential component differentiating gold and silver tequilas. It encompasses everything of the sensory expertise, from preliminary aroma to the lingering end, and displays the manufacturing strategies, growing older processes, and potential use of components employed in every fashion.
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Agave Expression
Silver tequila, unaged, prominently displays the uncooked, vegetal notes of the agave plant. These flavors typically manifest as grassy, earthy, or barely peppery sensations. The unadulterated agave character serves as a defining function of silver tequila, setting it aside from the often-modified flavors of gold tequila. For instance, a 100% agave silver tequila will showcase the terroir of the agave and the nuances imparted by the distillation course of.
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Impression of Getting old (or Lack Thereof)
The absence of growing older in silver tequila preserves the spirit’s inherent sharpness and depth. In distinction, gold tequila, if genuinely aged, will show flavors derived from the oak barrels, equivalent to vanilla, caramel, and spice. Nonetheless, many gold tequilas obtain their golden hue and perceived smoothness by means of components relatively than real growing older, leading to a synthetic sweetness that lacks the complexity of barrel-aged tequilas. This distinction highlights a elementary distinction within the underlying taste growth course of.
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Affect of Components
The inclusion of components in gold tequila, like caramel coloring or sugar-based syrups, can considerably alter the flavour profile. These components sometimes introduce a sweetness that masks the spirit’s underlying imperfections or mimics the style of aged tequila. A gold tequila containing components might current a candied taste profile, missing the steadiness and complexity of a well-aged spirit or the pure agave expression of a silver tequila. Subsequently, components function a key determinant of the ultimate taste expertise.
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Total Sensory Expertise
Silver tequila is usually described as crisp, clear, and vibrant, very best for cocktails the place the agave taste is desired. Gold tequila, relying on its manufacturing, can vary from artificially candy and easy to possessing a extra advanced, oak-derived taste profile if correctly aged. The general sensory expertise is essentially formed by the presence or absence of growing older, the usage of components, and the underlying high quality of the agave spirit. This distinction emphasizes the necessity for shoppers to fastidiously think about the manufacturing strategies when choosing a tequila based mostly on its supposed use and desired taste traits.
In conclusion, the flavour profile serves as a defining attribute that distinguishes gold and silver tequilas. From the uncooked agave notes of silver tequila to the doubtless manipulated flavors of gold tequila, the sensory expertise displays the manufacturing decisions made and finally determines the spirit’s suitability for numerous consuming events. A discerning client’s understanding of those nuances enhances their appreciation for the varied world of tequila.
5. Manufacturing Course of
The manufacturing course of considerably contributes to the observable variances between gold and silver tequilas. From agave harvesting to distillation and growing older, or the dearth thereof, every step impacts the ultimate product’s traits.
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Agave Choice and Preparation
The standard and maturity of the agave vegetation affect the bottom spirit’s taste. Each gold and silver tequilas start with the identical uncooked materials: agave. Nonetheless, variations in harvesting practices, equivalent to choosing overly ripe or underripe agave, can affect the preliminary sugar content material and subsequent fermentation course of, finally affecting the tequila’s taste profile, no matter whether or not it’s destined to turn out to be a gold or silver variant.
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Distillation Strategies
Distillation strategies, together with the kind of nonetheless used (pot or column) and the variety of distillations, have an effect on the spirit’s purity and taste focus. Silver tequila typically undergoes a cautious distillation course of to protect the agave’s inherent flavors, whereas gold tequila could also be distilled with much less precision if components are supposed to masks imperfections. The nuances of distillation strategies are essential in defining the ultimate traits of every tequila kind.
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Getting old or Resting
The essential divergence within the manufacturing course of is the growing older or resting interval. Silver tequila is usually bottled instantly after distillation or rests briefly in stainless-steel tanks. This absence of wooden contact preserves the agave’s pure flavors. In distinction, gold tequila could also be aged in oak barrels, although typically for a shorter length than Reposado or Aejo tequilas, or in no way. As a substitute, it might purchase its shade and smoothness by means of components relatively than barrel growing older, which is a elementary distinction in manufacturing philosophy.
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Filtration and Components
Filtration and the addition of permitted components play a vital function. Silver tequila is usually filtered to take away impurities whereas sustaining readability. Gold tequila, however, might bear minimal filtration if components equivalent to caramel coloring, glycerin, or oak extract are used to simulate the consequences of growing older. The selective use of components represents a key distinction within the manufacturing course of and instantly impacts the ultimate sensory expertise.
In abstract, the manufacturing course of is instrumental in defining the distinctive attributes of gold and silver tequilas. From the preliminary agave choice to the ultimate filtration and addition of components, every step contributes to the distinct taste profiles and client perceptions related to every kind. Understanding these manufacturing nuances permits for a extra knowledgeable appreciation of the varied world of tequila.
6. Purity
Purity, within the context of tequila, instantly correlates with the manufacturing strategies employed and the ensuing composition of the ultimate product. With silver tequila, purity is usually the defining attribute, reflecting a dedication to showcasing the unadulterated flavors of the agave plant. Silver tequilas, significantly these labeled “100% Agave,” are anticipated to be free from components, emphasizing the inherent qualities derived from the agave itself and the distillation course of. The absence of synthetic coloring, flavorings, or sweeteners permits the buyer to expertise the true essence of the spirit. In distinction, gold tequila typically faces scrutiny relating to its purity as a result of permitted use of components like caramel coloring, sugar-based syrups, and different taste enhancers. These components, whereas legally allowed in “Tequila” (non-100% Agave) variants, can masks imperfections or simulate traits sometimes related to aged tequilas, thus compromising the spirit’s inherent purity.
The sensible significance of understanding this purity distinction lies within the client’s means to make knowledgeable decisions. A client prioritizing an genuine tequila expertise will doubtless gravitate in direction of silver tequilas labeled “100% Agave,” looking for the unmasked agave flavors and assurance that no synthetic enhancements have been launched. Conversely, a client looking for a sweeter or smoother profile might go for a gold tequila, doubtlessly accepting the inclusion of components as a trade-off. Nonetheless, consciousness of the presence of those components is essential to stop misinterpretations relating to the tequila’s high quality or growing older course of. For instance, a gold tequila with a deep amber shade could also be perceived as well-aged when, in actuality, the colour is solely on account of caramel coloring. This underscores the significance of label studying and understanding the regulatory framework governing tequila manufacturing.
In conclusion, the idea of purity serves as a essential lens by means of which to guage the distinction between gold and silver tequilas. Silver tequila, significantly the 100% agave selection, prioritizes purity and genuine agave flavors. Whereas gold tequila might provide a unique taste profile, shoppers ought to concentrate on the potential compromise on purity on account of the usage of components. Recognizing this distinction permits for a extra discerning appreciation of tequila and fosters knowledgeable consumption practices. A remaining problem entails larger transparency in labeling practices to allow shoppers to readily establish the presence and kind of components utilized in gold tequilas, additional empowering their buying choices.
7. Value
Value issues are integral to understanding the distinctions between gold and silver tequilas. Value factors typically replicate the manufacturing processes, substances, and advertising and marketing methods related to every kind. A comparative evaluation of price elements illuminates the financial elements influencing client decisions inside the tequila market.
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Agave Supply and High quality
The supply and high quality of agave instantly affect the manufacturing price, which subsequently influences the ultimate value. Tequilas comprised of 100% blue agave, particularly these sourced from particular areas identified for superior agave, sometimes command increased costs than these utilizing a mixto base (agave blended with different sugars). Silver tequilas marketed as premium typically emphasize their unique use of high-quality agave, contributing to the next retail value. The distinction in agave supply subsequently influences the fee variations between silver and gold variants, as gold tequilas ceaselessly make the most of cheaper mixto bases.
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Manufacturing Complexity and Getting old
The complexity of the manufacturing course of and any related growing older considerably have an effect on price. Silver tequilas, usually unaged or briefly rested, incur fewer storage and dealing with bills than aged tequilas. Conversely, whereas some gold tequilas incorporate aged tequilas of their blends, others obtain their golden hue by means of components, a less expensive different to real barrel growing older. Consequently, the growing older course of, or its synthetic simulation, is a pivotal consider figuring out the last word price differential.
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Components and Advertising and marketing
The usage of components can cut back manufacturing prices, although the advertising and marketing methods employed typically inflate the retail value. Gold tequilas that make the most of caramel coloring, taste enhancers, and different components could also be cheaper to supply than premium silver tequilas, however aggressive advertising and marketing campaigns emphasizing smoothness or perceived worth can command increased costs. This disconnect between manufacturing price and retail value underscores the affect of selling on client spending.
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Model Notion and Distribution
Established manufacturers with sturdy market presence typically command premium costs, no matter the tequila kind. Effectively-known tequila manufacturers, whether or not providing silver or gold varieties, leverage their model recognition and intensive distribution networks to justify increased value factors. Smaller, impartial distilleries might provide comparable high quality at decrease costs, however their restricted distribution and model consciousness limit their pricing energy. The interaction between model notion and distribution considerably contributes to the fee variations noticed between numerous tequila manufacturers and kinds.
In conclusion, the price of gold and silver tequilas is influenced by a mix of things, together with agave supply, manufacturing complexity, the usage of components, and model notion. Understanding these parts permits shoppers to make knowledgeable buying choices, balancing their preferences for taste, purity, and value level. The associated fee evaluation reveals that whereas silver tequila emphasizes agave purity and manufacturing high quality, gold tequila typically depends on components and advertising and marketing methods to attain a perceived worth, finally impacting the ultimate price to the buyer.
8. Meant Use
The choice between gold and silver tequila is just not merely a matter of choice; it’s intrinsically linked to the spirit’s supposed software. The particular traits of every tequila kind make them extra appropriate for explicit makes use of, influencing the ultimate final result of a cocktail or the general consuming expertise.
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Cocktail Composition
Silver tequila, with its unadulterated agave flavors, is usually the popular alternative for cocktails the place the tequila’s character is supposed to be distinguished. Traditional margaritas, palomas, and tequila sunrises profit from the clear, crisp style of silver tequila. Gold tequila, significantly these with added sugars or flavorings, can typically muddle the supposed taste profile of a cocktail, leading to an excessively candy or synthetic style. Subsequently, the particular substances and desired steadiness of a cocktail ought to information the tequila choice.
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Neat Consumption and Sipping
Whereas private choice performs a big function, silver tequila is much less generally consumed neat, as its uncooked agave flavors could also be perceived as harsh by some. Aged tequilas, equivalent to Reposado or Aejo, are sometimes favored for sipping on account of their smoother, extra advanced taste profiles developed by means of barrel growing older. Gold tequilas making an attempt to imitate aged traits by means of components might fall wanting the nuanced expertise provided by genuinely aged spirits, making them a much less fascinating choice for discerning sippers. Nonetheless, genuinely aged Gold tequilas will be loved this fashion.
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Culinary Purposes
Each silver and gold tequilas can be utilized in culinary functions, equivalent to marinades, sauces, and desserts. Silver tequila’s clear taste works effectively in dishes the place a delicate agave word is desired, whereas gold tequila, relying on its composition, can add a contact of sweetness or caramel-like taste. The choice relies on the specified taste contribution to the dish and the complementary substances.
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Ceremonial and Cultural Significance
In sure cultural contexts, the kind of tequila used might maintain ceremonial or symbolic significance. Whereas particular traditions might differ, the purity and authenticity related to 100% agave silver tequila typically align with a need for a extra conventional or unadulterated illustration of the spirit. Gold tequilas, significantly these with components, could also be perceived as much less genuine or consultant of the spirit’s heritage. Thus, cultural issues can affect the selection between silver and gold tequila.
In abstract, the supposed use of tequila is an important determinant in choosing between gold and silver varieties. Whether or not crafting a traditional cocktail, savoring a neat pour, incorporating tequila into culinary creations, or adhering to cultural traditions, the distinctive traits of every tequila kind affect the ultimate final result. The knowledgeable client fastidiously considers these elements to make sure the chosen tequila aligns with the specified expertise and enhances the general enjoyment.
Incessantly Requested Questions
This part addresses frequent inquiries relating to the distinctions between gold tequila and silver tequila, offering clear and concise solutions to assist in knowledgeable consumption.
Query 1: Is all gold tequila merely silver tequila with coloring added?
Not all gold tequila consists solely of silver tequila with added coloring. Some gold tequilas are blends of silver tequila with aged tequila, equivalent to Reposado or Aejo. Nonetheless, the frequent apply entails including caramel coloring or different permitted components to silver tequila to imitate the looks of growing older.
Query 2: Does the golden shade of tequila invariably point out growing older?
The golden shade doesn’t invariably signify real barrel growing older. Whereas some gold tequilas derive their shade from growing older in oak barrels, others obtain their golden hue by means of the addition of caramel coloring or different components. Cautious label examination is critical to find out if the colour is of course derived.
Query 3: Are there laws governing the usage of components in tequila?
Sure, laws allow the usage of sure components in tequila labeled as “Tequila,” as much as 1% of the whole quantity. These components embrace caramel coloring, sugar-based syrups, glycerin, and oak extract. Tequila labeled “100% Agave Tequila” mustn’t comprise these components.
Query 4: Which kind of tequila is usually thought-about “purer”?
Silver tequila, significantly these labeled “100% Agave,” is usually thought-about purer. These tequilas emphasize the unadulterated flavors of the agave plant and are sometimes free from components. This contrasts with some gold tequilas that make the most of components to change their shade or taste profiles.
Query 5: How does the growing older course of affect the flavour of tequila?
The growing older course of considerably impacts the flavour of tequila. Getting old in oak barrels imparts notes of vanilla, caramel, and spice, contributing to a smoother, extra advanced character. Silver tequila, unaged or briefly rested, retains the uncooked, vegetal taste of the agave.
Query 6: Is one kind of tequila inherently “higher” than the opposite?
Neither kind of tequila is inherently “higher.” The choice relies on particular person preferences and the supposed use. Silver tequila is usually most popular for cocktails the place the agave taste is desired, whereas aged tequilas (together with legitimately aged gold tequilas) are sometimes favored for sipping neat.
In abstract, the important thing variations between gold tequila and silver tequila relate to paint, the presence or absence of growing older, the usage of components, and the ensuing taste profiles. Knowledgeable consumption requires cautious examination of product labels and an understanding of the manufacturing strategies employed.
The next part will delve into pairing ideas and serving suggestions for each gold and silver tequilas, additional enhancing the buyer’s appreciation of this versatile spirit.
Discerning Suggestions
The next pointers are supposed to boost the buyer’s understanding when navigating the nuances between gold and silver tequila, thus facilitating knowledgeable and satisfying choices.
Tip 1: Scrutinize the Label. Examination of the label is paramount. Prioritize tequilas labeled “100% Agave,” as these are assured to be made solely from blue agave with out added sugars. Word whether or not the tequila is labeled “Tequila,” which allows the usage of components.
Tip 2: Consider the Coloration Naturally. For gold tequila, assess whether or not the colour is of course derived from barrel growing older. Real growing older sometimes imparts delicate hues and sophisticated flavors, whereas synthetic coloring typically leads to a uniform, much less nuanced look.
Tip 3: Contemplate the Components. Be aware of the components current in gold tequila. Whereas components are permitted, they will masks the spirit’s true character. If looking for a purer expertise, go for silver tequila labeled “100% Agave,” which must be free from components.
Tip 4: Match the Tequila to the Event. Choose tequila based mostly on the supposed use. Silver tequila is usually most popular for cocktails that spotlight the agave taste, whereas aged tequilas (together with genuinely aged Gold tequilas) are sometimes favored for sipping neat.
Tip 5: Analysis Manufacturers. Examine the manufacturing practices of varied tequila manufacturers. Some distilleries prioritize conventional strategies and sustainable sourcing, whereas others give attention to mass manufacturing and taste manipulation. Knowledgeable analysis can result in a extra rewarding consumption expertise.
Tip 6: Perceive the Getting old Course of: Concentrate on growing older terminology. “Blanco” or “Silver” signifies unaged or minimally rested tequila. A golden hue doesn’t assure growing older. Examine whether or not growing older particulars like “Reposado” or “Aejo” is indicated on the label.
By implementing the following tips, shoppers can extra confidently navigate the varied world of tequila, discerning between gold and silver varieties based mostly on knowledgeable standards relatively than superficial attributes. The understanding of manufacturing practices and label interpretation will empower a rewarding and genuine appreciation of tequila.
The next concluding part will summarize the core differentiating elements between gold and silver tequila and spotlight the worth of discerning consumption.
Distinction Between Gold Tequila and Silver Tequila
The examination of the core attributes distinguishing gold and silver tequilas reveals elementary variations in manufacturing strategies, additive use, and ensuing taste profiles. Silver tequila, typically representing the purest expression of agave, contrasts sharply with gold tequila, which ceaselessly employs components to imitate the traits of aged spirits. The absence or presence of real growing older additional contributes to those divergences, impacting the sensory expertise and total client notion.
Within the realm of tequila consumption, knowledgeable decisions stand paramount. Understanding the delicate nuances and manufacturing complexities empowers shoppers to pick a spirit aligned with their preferences and supposed use. Discerning between authenticity and synthetic enhancement contributes to a deeper appreciation for the craft and traditions related to tequila manufacturing. The search for data enhances not solely the person expertise but in addition promotes transparency and integrity inside the tequila business.
