Tequila samples and appetizers. Photo by Becky Rutherford

By Becky Rutherford
Los Alamos

I bet you all had no idea I’m not just a cybersecurity pro … I’m also a cocktail expert! Yes it’s true, and one of my favorites has always been Maria’s NM Kitchen in Santa Fe. 

I’ve based my margarita recipe off theirs for years. Well known for New Mexico classics like enchiladas, and famous for their margaritas, Maria’s has been serving up food and drinks since 1950. 

On Wednesday, Dec. 12, Maria’s hosted its first ever tequila tasting, featuring Patron tequilas and an assortment of appetizers.

Bar Manager Christopher Scott Redmond hosted the event, with lovely appetizers provided by Head Chef J. Zan Mauler.

Theme of the first tasting was Patron, featuring samples of these tequilas:

• Siete Leguas Reposado (The original Patron!)
• Patrón El Cielo Blanco
• Patrón El Alto Reposado
• Patron Gran Piedra ( 4 year extra Anejo)
• Patron Burderos Anejo ( Bordeaux cask aged)
• Patron classic-Silver, Anejo and Reposado

What is the difference between all these different tequilas?

• Silver, or Blanco tequila is bottled right after it’s distilled without any aging. 
• Reposado is tequila aged anywhere from two months to one year in steel or wood casks. 
• Anejo tequila is aged between one and three years, usually wood aged to enhance the flavors. 
• Extra Anejo tequila is barrel aged for a minimum of three years.

The tasting also included chips and salsa and a sampling of appetizers by Chef Mauler.

Appetizers from the tasting. Photo by Becky Rutherford

In addition to the tequila and snacks, history and information on each sampled tequila was done by Christopher Scott Redmond. There was also a raffle with fun, Patron branded giveaways!

Maria’s Bar Manager Christopher Scott Redmond. Photo by Becky Rutherford

Assorted tequilas from the sampling. Photo by Becky Rutherford

Cost for the tasting was $50 plus a 20% gratuity. Maria’s is planning to do these monthly, on the second Tuesday of each month. Check out their website for more info, or give them a call at 505.983.7929.