Tequila Food Pairings – perfect for Valentine’s Day

If the old adage is true, the best way to someone’s heart is through their stomach. If you’re bored of the old classics of champagne, oysters and strawberries dipped in chocolate, here are some new ideas pairing tequila with a range of popular foods, perfect for Valentine’s celebrations (or any occasion, for that matter). UK-founded Tequila Enemigo produces two award-winning expressions, the clear Añejo Cristalino 89 (RRP £60) and the amber, whisky-esque Extra Añejo 00 (RRP £150).
Like any good relationship, these pairings are a celebration of contrasts and complements:

Enemigo Extra Añejo & Steak
The combination of steak grilled over wood or charcoal and aged tequila is a great way to spend the evening, with the natural smokiness from the wood subtle enough to enhance and follow the rich flavours of the tequila, which has rested undisturbed for over three years in custom-made American Oak barrels.

Tequila & Chocolate
The taste of the tequila will alter depending on the type of chocolate, with higher cocoa percentages leaning into the coffee and savoury notes, and lower leaning toward the agave and citrus notes.

Tequila & Cheese & Charcuterie
As a high acid spirit, tequila was born for charcuterie and tapas. The herbaceous, vegetal nature of a Lowlands tequila such as Enemigo, along with the perceived salinity and mineralogy, pairs perfectly with cured meats and cheeses. Try a manchego with Enemigo Extra Añejo – the bittersweet, creamy, buttery nuances will really emphasize the wood barrel notes of the tequila. Extra Añejo tequila starts to take on the sweetness of the barrel, reminiscent of brandy or cognac, and goes really well with smoked, cured meats. Enemigo Cristalino 89 exhibits the agave flavours and rich vanilla and coconut aromas, and pairs well with rich, aged Alpine cheeses.

Tequila & Sashimi
A Lowlands tequila such as Enemigo Cristalino 89 pairs well with richer, oilier fish like salmon or tuna. The fresh, almost citrusy flavour of the raw fish cuts through the spicy earthiness of the agaves grown in the rich, volcanic soil.

Tequila & Caviar
The subtle sweetness of Enemigo Cristalino 89 contrasts beautifully with the briny essence of caviar, and the warmth and depth of the spirit enhances the luxurious, buttery essence of a Beluga or Oscietra.
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