The practice of infusing Mexican liquor with worms primarily stems from a folk practice, as the worms are believed to boost the drink’s potency, increase energy and impart an earthy and smoky flavor.
This practice has been used in Central America for centuries and typically involves placing a small tequila worm in a bottle of mezcal, a smoky and stronger liquor that is derived from the ancient Aztec ritual of burning the agave plant so it ferments.
The actual origin of this tradition is unknown, though today, many believe the worms are meant to provide a hallucinogenic effect, as some indigenous Mexican cultures have long believed in supernatural and medicinal properties found in insects.
Although the practice is viewed by many as revolting and even dangerous, it is still widely practiced and accepted in parts of Mexico.
What does the worm in Mezcal do to you?
The worm in a bottle of Mezcal is actually a type of moth larva called a gusano. It is commonly believed that consuming the worm will bring both strength and courage, but this is largely a cultural myth, as there is no scientific evidence to suggest the worm has any benefits at all.
Consumption of the worm may also bring a tingling sensation on the tongue, along with a smoky flavor. However, the worm won’t actually do anything to you — it is entirely edible, and the consequences of consuming it will largely depend on your individual tolerance for certain flavors.
Some have reported feeling a strong aftertaste comparable to black licorice or anise, although this is certainly not the experience for everyone.
What is the purpose of putting a worm in tequila?
The purpose of putting a worm in tequila is largely symbolic. It started in Mexico as a clever marketing tactic meant to demonstrate that the alcohol was so strong that it could “preserve” a worm or it could even bring one back to life! In reality, of course, the worm does not survive in the tequila for very long.
Despite this, the worm becoming a prominent feature in tequila, especially the less expensive varieties, has become a tradition.
The worm can be found in a variety of tequila varieties, from blanco and reposado to anejo and more. Some believe it provides a slightly earthy flavor to the tequila, while others claim it has a pleasant taste.
It’s also believed that having a worm in the tequila is believed to bring good luck and offer protection. The worm is often eaten in one gulp after quickly downing a shot of tequila and is thought to provide all the benefits associated with the tequila, such as courage and strength.
In general, the purpose of having a worm in tequila is mainly as a marketing gimmicky, however it is now a long-standing tradition.
Is the worm in tequila a real worm?
Yes, the worm in tequila is real. The worm is usually a type of larva from the agave plant, which is the same plant used to make tequila. The tradition of adding this worm to the bottle of tequila dates back to the 1940s when a mezcal producer included it to distinguish his product from other alcoholic beverages.
The worm, which is often referred to as a gusano, does not really add anything to the flavor of the tequila, but instead is meant to be a conversation piece and a marketing ploy. In some cases, the inclusion of the worm can be a sign of a lower quality of tequila, so it’s best to steer clear of bottles with worms.
Can you eat the worm in mezcal?
No, you should not eat the worm in mezcal. While it has become a bit of a novelty for some people, the worm itself is actually a larvae of the agave moth, which is not edible and does not provide any nutritional value.
That, coupled with the fact that it is marinated in an alcoholic solution, mean that eating the worm is more of a novelty than a viable option for consumption.
Is Jose Cuervo really tequila?
Yes, Jose Cuervo is a brand of tequila. It is produced and distributed by the company Jose Cuervo International, founded in 1795 by José Antonio de Cuervo y Valdés. The main ingredient in Jose Cuervo tequila is blue agave, which is the same type of agave used to make all authentic tequilas.
Jose Cuervo tequila is made according to the standards set by the Tequila Regulatory Council, which regulates all tequila production in Mexico. The brand offers a variety of tequila varieties, ranging from blanco (unaged) to reposado (aged two months in oak barrels) to añejo (aged one year in oak barrels).
In addition, they produce specialty varieties including flavored tequilas, limited-edition releases, small-batch tequilas and extra añejo tequilas made from agaves aged up to five years in oak barrels.
Did Jose Cuervo ever have a worm in it?
No, Jose Cuervo does not traditionally have a worm in it. Although variations of Jose Cuervo tequilas, such as the premium edition of Jose Cuervo Tradicional, may include a worm at the bottom of the bottle as a novelty item, the worms are not actually a central part of the drink.
The myth of tequila containing a worm started with a different tequila brand, mezcal, which contained the agave worm inside to signify its high quality and strength. Eventually, this myth was falsely attributed to all forms of tequila.
However, traditional tequila has never contained a worm.
Why do they put a scorpion in tequila?
The scorpion in tequila is a Mexican tradition that is said to date back to ancient times. Legends claim that the Aztec emperor Moctezuma drank tequila with a scorpion for added potency. Furthermore, the scorpion is believed to be a symbol of protection, which some consumers find to be a comforting reminder that their tequila is of the highest quality.
Today, you’ll often find scorpions in bottles of tequila because they signify quality and craftsmanship. They are gently placed in the bottle of tequila to add a special layer of complexity, flavor, and mystique.
As with all tequila, the scorpion becomes infused with the flavor and aroma of the agave, making a unique drinking experience. Ultimately, the scorpion in tequila gives the bottle an exotic flair and adds a bit of intrigue to the story of Mexican culture and tradition.
What brands of tequila have a worm?
Popular examples include Tequila Ocho, Don Julio, Tequila Moises, Tequila Real de Jalisco, 1800 Tequila, and a few others. The worm is not actually present in the bottle itself, but rather is on a label or inside of an agave plant shaped glass bottle.
The addition of a worm to the bottle is meant to represent the traditional process of cultivating agave plants and harvesting their fruit, which is the source of tequila. While the practice of adding a worm to the bottle is mostly done for decorative reasons, some brands claim that the worm also helps to impart a unique flavor to the tequila.
What alcohol has a scorpion in it?
The most well-known alcohol that features a scorpion is scorpion vodka. Scorpion vodka is a variety of vodka made with scorpions that have been steeped in the vodka. The scorpions are often dried and rehydrated before being mixed with the vodka.
The vodka is then blended and filtered several times, during which process the scorpion venom and oils are filtered out of the drink. The result is a tincture-like beverage that has a unique flavor and texture.
The flavor of scorpion vodka is described as being slightly sweet and earthy, with a bit of a peppery kick. Some brands of scorpion vodka are mixed with other flavors, such as ginger and citrus, to give it a sweeter taste.
The venom has no effect on the drinker and is not present in the final product, making it safe to drink.
Does mezcal make you high?
No, mezcal does not make you high. This is because it does not contain any psychoactive substances that typically affect someone’s mind or cause them to experience any kind of altered state of consciousness.
Mezcal is a type of spirit (alcoholic beverage) made from any variety of agave plants that are native to Mexico, and while it typically contains a high proof of alcohol–as high as 80% ABV, it does not contain any THC or other psychoactive compounds.
Drinking mezcal, therefore, is only going to produce the effects that are typically associated with drinking alcohol, such as impaired judgment and motor skills, which are not the same as being high, and excessive consumption can be very dangerous and even deadly.
What happens when you eat mezcal worm?
It is not advisable to ingest a mezcal worm, as the effects are largely unknown. However, some traditional cultures in the Oaxaca region of Mexico consume the larvae of the agave plant, which can be found in many mezcal bottles, as part of rituals or to induce drunkenness.
Eating the mezcal worm reportedly has a peppery taste, and is thought to create a feeling of euphoria. Additionally, it has been described as providing a tingling sensation to the chest, which can last for minutes.
In recent years, many drinkers have chosen to consume the worm as a unique way to experience a product of Mexican culture, as well as for its rumored health benefits. These claims are largely unsubstantiated, and the worm itself is not generally considered to have any medical value.
It is theorized to have properties that can help alleviate stomach discomfort caused by consuming too much alcohol in general, but more research needs to be done to support this claim. Ultimately, consuming the mezcal worm is a personal choice that likely holds few health benefits and could lead to unforeseen side effects.
Are mezcal worms safe?
The short answer is yes, eating mezcal worms is safe. However, some people may be allergic to them. Some mezcal bottles contain a worm, which is actually the larva of the moth Hypopta agavis. These worms are edible, and they are harmless.
Eating the worm provides no nutritional value and will not get someone drunk or intoxicated. The worm is meant to act as a visual sign of authenticity of the mezcal and that it is of a high quality. The worms are often added to the bottle to show that the distillation process was done properly.
It is important to note that the worms are not alive when they are added to the bottle, as the worm will die if exposed to the alcohol. The worms are typically fried to ensure safety and then soaked in the mezcal for six weeks.
If you are eating a mezcal worm and are allergic to them, it is important to seek medical help immediately. If you have any other concerns about consuming a mezcal worm, it is best to speak with a medical professional who may have more specific advice.
Can I eat the scorpion in my tequila?
No, you should not eat the scorpion in your tequila. Eating a scorpion that has been soaking in alcohol can make you very sick, and it can also be dangerous because scorpions can be poisonous. Additionally, scorpions can transfer bacteria, parasites, and viruses that could make you sick.
If you find a scorpion in your tequila, discard it and the tequila immediately.
Is it safe to eat worms?
No, it is not safe to eat worms. Although some cultures eat worms, generally they are not considered a safe food source. Worms are generally scavengers and their diet can consist of feces, garbage, and other contaminants.
Additionally, worms may contain parasites, bacteria, and other disease-causing organisms. Raw worms also may contain cyanide and other harmful toxins, so it is important to never consume them raw. In addition to potential pathogens, the texture of the worms can be an difficult to swallow and digest.
Furthermore, worms do not provide adequate nutrition, as they are mainly comprised of dirt and other non-nutritious matter. Thus, it is not safe to eat worms.
