THE MYTH:

THE TRUTH:

"Raw" tequila has a golden color. The best stuff is clear because it is pure.

Double-distillation produces a colorless 150-proof tequila. Silver (clear) tequila is not aged and is merely the distilled un-aged tequila dilluted with distilled water to a specified proof. Highly prized "gold" tequila comes in several varieties, the best resulting from aging in large redwood casks for six months. Premium-grade Tequilas are aged longer - the same way single-malt scotches and fine wines are aged - in oak barrels. Time imparts color, a variety of unique flavors and a range of smoothness.