Tequila has developed a reputation of being one of the toughest boozes out there. It really isn’t any stronger than other spirits with most being around 40% alcohol. It’s reputation probably comes as a result of the salt, slam, lime ritual of doing tequila shots. While old coots like me are at the other end of the bar clicking ice around in our Scotches, the college kids are knocking back tequila shots and sucking on lime. The process itself is great fun and happens so fast that it’s possible, even likely, to put a lot more alcohol in yourself that you meant to.

I’ve been there and it is a helluva a lot of fun. But you wouldn’t want to waste good tequila on it. Mid-range tequilas are just fine for doing shots. These are brewed with more corn than agave, the original source of tequila. They taste vaguely of tequila in much the same way that orange soda has a passing resemblance to oranges.

But, before you do your shots or when you realize that it might be time to slow down, try a glass of top shelf tequila. Make sure that your server understands you want to taste the drink otherwise it might arrive with a thick dusting of salt on the rim or a chunk of fruit floating in it.

Real tequila, made 100% agave, is a beautiful thing. The flavor is light but unmistakable. It has an under-ripe vegetable quality to it; it tastes like cool, spring air and is certainly worth savoring.

This is why it is such a great alcohol for mixed drinks. Unlike Scotch or bourbon whose flavors dominate anything that they are involved in, tequila blends.

So, doing tequila shots? Go for the cheap stuff. Taste isn’t really your goal here, is it? Wanting to enjoy a drink or make a mixed drink? Spend a few extra bucks. It is so worth it.