Tequila 101: A Complete Introduction to Tequila

Tequila is one of the most recognized spirits in the world, yet it remains one of the most misunderstood. PKGD University's Tequila 101 is a free, self-paced course that builds real confidence and literacy around tequila for bartenders, retail staff, hospitality professionals, distributors, and curious consumers.

What You Will Learn

This course covers tequila from the ground up across four modules. You will learn how tequila originated from ancient agave fermentation through Spanish colonial distillation, how blue agave is cultivated, harvested by jimadores, cooked, fermented, and double-distilled into a finished spirit, and why each step in the tequila production process directly shapes flavor, aroma, and quality.

Tequila Classifications and Label Literacy

The course breaks down every tequila classification you need to know: 100% agave vs. mixto, and the full aging spectrum from blanco and joven through reposado, anejo, extra anejo, and cristalino. You will also learn how to read a tequila label, including agave statements, NOM numbers, origin designations, and alcohol content, so you can assess any bottle before it is opened.

Culture, Tasting, and Responsible Service

Tequila 101 also covers how tequila is traditionally enjoyed in Mexico (sipped neat, not shot with salt and lime), how to pair tequila with sangrita, and how to recommend the right tequila style for sipping vs. cocktails. Each module includes knowledge checks, followed by a comprehensive 19-question final quiz. By the end of this course, you will be able to explain tequila clearly, make informed purchasing decisions, and guide others with accuracy and confidence.