Shot Show

From fishbowl-sized margaritas to salty shots chased with lime, tequila has a rep for getting the party started. But the agave-based liquor can also be a nuanced, complex and downright respectable beverage. Phoenix Tequila Fest will offer you a chance to discover the hard partying liquor’s sophisticated side. While perusing...

By Zach Fowle

December 8, 2011

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From fishbowl-sized margaritas to salty shots chased with lime, tequila has a rep for getting the party started. But the agave-based liquor can also be a nuanced, complex and downright respectable beverage. Phoenix Tequila Fest will offer you a chance to discover the hard partying liquor’s sophisticated side.

While perusing the festival booths, attendees will encounter experts and mixologists showcasing hot trends in tequila — like infusions with mango, coffee, habañero, and pineapple — along with distillers and agave farmers who’ll share how agave is grown, harvested, roasted, fermented, distilled, and aged to create the booze you know and love.

After you watch the Valley’s top bartenders and mixologists compete in the 3rd Annual Margarita Challenge, make your way to the sampling booths, where you can drink enough tasters to make you dance on a counter top a la Pewee Herman. Tequila!

Sat., Dec. 10, 1-5 p.m.; Sun., Dec. 11, 1-5 p.m., 2011

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