What is Authentic Tequila?
For a spirit to be legally considered tequila, it must meet specific criteria under Mexico's Denomination of Origin (DO). These rules dictate everything from the raw material to the geographical location of production. The key requirements are:
- Raw Material: It must be made from at least 51% blue agave (Agave tequilana Weber azul). Higher-quality tequilas use 100% agave.
- Geographical Origin: Production must take place in the state of Jalisco or in specific municipalities in the states of Guanajuato, Michoacán, Nayarit, and Tamaulipas.
- Production Process: The agave must be cooked, fermented, and distilled according to specific, regulated processes.
- Mixto vs. 100% Agave: 'Mixto' tequilas contain at least 51% agave, with the remaining 49% coming from other sugars. 100% agave tequilas are considered higher quality as they contain no other sugars. The presence of additives in mixtos can sometimes make for a harsher taste or a worse hangover.
The Truth About 99 Gold Tequila
99 Gold Tequila is part of the extensive "99 Brand" line of high-proof cordials, which includes flavors like 99 Bananas and 99 Peppermint. The "99" refers to its 99 proof (49.5% ABV). The key differentiator for 99 Gold lies in its origin and composition. It is manufactured by the Sazerac Company, which is based in Louisville, Kentucky, in the United States. Since it is not produced in Mexico, it cannot be legally classified or sold as true tequila.
Instead, 99 Gold Tequila should be regarded as a tequila-flavored liqueur or cordial. A liqueur is a sweetened distilled spirit with added flavorings, while a cordial is a synonym for liqueur, particularly one that is sweet. While it contains a tequila base, it also has added flavors and sweeteners that differentiate it from an authentic Mexican product. This is a crucial distinction, as it places it in a completely different category of spirit, appealing to drinkers looking for intense, sweet shots rather than the complex flavor profile of a genuine agave spirit.
Why Does This Cause Confusion?
The confusion stems from the common marketing practice of using familiar spirit names to describe the flavor of a liqueur. Phrases like "tequila-flavored" or "tequila cordial" would be more accurate, but the brand utilizes the name "99 Gold Tequila" to evoke an association with the traditional spirit. For consumers not well-versed in liquor regulations, this can be misleading. Additionally, some online retailers mislabel the product, further perpetuating the inaccuracy.
Real Tequila vs. 99 Gold Tequila Liqueur
To help clarify the differences, here is a breakdown of the key characteristics:
| Feature | Authentic Tequila (e.g., Blanco, Reposado) | 99 Gold Tequila Liqueur |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Specific regions in Mexico (Jalisco, etc.) | United States (Louisville, Kentucky) |
| Base Ingredient | Minimum 51% Blue Weber Agave, higher quality is 100% agave | Likely uses a tequila base, but it is not a 100% agave product |
| Flavoring | Flavor profile comes naturally from the agave and aging process | Flavor profile is achieved through added sweeteners and flavorings |
| Proof | Generally 80 proof (40% ABV) for standard products | 99 proof (49.5% ABV) |
| Legal Classification | Tequila (Protected Denomination of Origin) | Liqueur, Cordial, or Flavored Spirit |
How to Identify a Liqueur vs. a Real Tequila
Understanding the subtle clues on a bottle can help you differentiate between an authentic spirit and a flavored liqueur. Look for these key indicators:
- Bottle Labeling: Authentic tequilas will often display a "NOM" (Norma Oficial Mexicana) number, which indicates the distillery of origin in Mexico. They will also state "Hecho en México" (made in Mexico) and specify if they are 100% agave. A product like 99 Gold will be less transparent about its manufacturing process and location on the front label, often focusing on flavor and proof instead.
- Ingredients: Check for terms like "liqueur," "flavored spirit," or "cordial". These are clear indications that the product is not a true tequila, regardless of how the flavor is described.
- Flavor Profile: The intense, often sweet and bold flavors of 99 Gold are a tell-tale sign of a liqueur, designed for shots and mixers. Genuine tequilas, especially premium ones, offer more complex, earthy, or herbal agave notes.
- Outbound link: For further reading on the range of spirits offered by Sazerac, including their 99 Brand, visit the official brand website.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the answer to the question "is 99 gold tequila" is no, not in the traditional, legal sense. While it has a tequila base and flavor, it is definitively a tequila-flavored liqueur produced in the United States and should not be mistaken for an authentic, Mexican-made agave spirit. The key difference lies in its non-Mexican origin, added flavoring and sweeteners, and its ultimate legal classification as a cordial or liqueur. For those seeking a high-proof, intensely flavored spirit for shots or cocktails, 99 Gold serves its purpose, but for true tequila enthusiasts, it is important to understand this distinction.
