Of Mexico's many culinary contributions besides tacos, tequila is often the most internationally acclaimed. Fortunately, for fans of this cactus-based drink, Arizona offers plenty of chances to savor this iconic drink, along with kindred south-of-the-border spirits like mescal and sotol. Here's a sampling of some of the top spots around the state to become agave savvy.
Tucson & Southern Arizona
Gaze out at saguaro-studded mountains while toasting ¡Salud! at the aptly named Salud lounge in Tucson's JW Marriott Starr Pass Resort & Spa. More than 140 premium tequilas, several infused with fresh ingredients like chiles and pineapple, are on offer. You'll find a similarly generous selection at the chic Elvira's, which boasts the largest selection of tequila in Tubac, just south of Tucson. Cozy up to the intimate bar in this colorful and innovative restaurant relocated several years ago from Nogales, Mexico.
Greater Phoenix Area
La Hacienda by Richard Sandoval at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess has an in-house Tequila Goddess to act as spirit(s) guide to the restaurant's nearly 250 varieties of premium Mexican liquors. Feeling adventurous? Don't miss the Snake Bite Flight, a tasting of sotol, mescal and tequila served on a plate with a genuine rattlesnake head and tail.
Scottsdale's Old Town Tortilla Factory is a close contender when it comes to bottle numbers and has a national claim to fame: They sell more El Tesoro tequila than anywhere else in the US. Other in-demand brands include the new Casa Amigos, backed by George Clooney and Randy Gerber. Many people's impressions of tequila are formed in college—and they're rarely positive. With its huge menu of 100% blue agave tequilas, Canteen Modern Tequila Bar in Tempe, near Arizona State University, should inspire a new generation to appreciate the complexities of a drink meant to be savored with good food, not kicked back in shots.
Northern & Central Arizona
At Oaxaca, where Agavero, a blend of tequila and Damiana—an aphrodisiac liqueur dating to pre-Hispanic days—is among the sipping options, Sedona's red rocks provide romantic vistas. Also mood-enhancing: Oaxaca's house specialty margaritas.
For a spirited moveable feast - including tequila-marinated ceviche and a margarita cake - book the Verde Canyon Railroad's Tequila Sunset Limited, departing from Clarkdale monthly in summer (through September). Ogle the scenery in the late afternoon daylight, and then, after dining and imbibing, enjoy the stars from the open-air car.
Annual Festivals
Cinco de Mayo celebrations involving Mexican bebidas and snacks include the Agave Fest at Hotel Congress in Tucson. The fun continues in August with the Salsa and Tequila Challenge at Tucson's La Encantada shopping center and Phoenix's Arizona Taco Festival in October.
