What is tequila made from?

Tequila is made from mature blue agave plants. Blue agave takes up to 10 years to mature, and 17 pounds of fruit is needed to make 1 liter of tequila. The drink takes its name from the city of Tequila, where much of the beverage is distilled.

The piñas, or cores, of the agave can weigh up to 135 pounds and are harvested by hand. Jimador is the name given to a person who harvests agave. The piñas are split and steamed in pressure cookers for at least 12 hours, producing a clear liquid. This liquid is distilled twice, leaving a high-proof tequila that is then diluted to reach the proper proof.