Tequila: The Spirit of Mexico

by Enrique Martinez Limon

Book Overview

Long considered a lowbrow liquor, tequila today is becoming one of the most popular beverages, and its wide appeal is decidedly upscale. An entire tequila culture has developed, not only throughout... This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0789206218
• ISBN13: 9780789206213
• Release Date: February 2000
• Publisher: Abbeville Press
• Length: 184 Pages
• Weight: 1.30 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.0" x 9.7" x 11.6"

Customer Reviews

Myths, facts and incredible pictures

The book begins with an excellent introduction by Mexican soclal commentary critic at large Carlos Monsivais. His thoughts set the groundwork for a book that is not only beautiful but fascinating. The contributing authors have worked together to produce a table top book that is interesting and a spectacular visual delight. The highlight of this book is the superb photographs by Michael Calderwood ; he shows his love for Mexico through his absolute stunning photography. The book has a sprinkling of information from various areas of interest on the subject of tequila. Beginning with a clarification on the myths surrounding tequila and it's source, the book is lucid, entertaining and informative. Reading this book is like taking a journey, discovering the past , present and future of tequila and the culture surrounding Mexico's national drink. The history discussed is interesting but covered only slightly for nice light reading. Included is the process of extracting the liquid and fermenting this traditional drink that is steeped deep in the culture. Other drinks are discuused for clarification , most notably pulque and mezcal. I found the procees of extracting and making the liquid most interesting. Much of the book is devoted to discussing the top brands, many of which are hard to find but for the dedicated aficionado obtainable. Included are recipes that have made tequila known besides the classic international margarita. In short, there is something to learn by most people in this book. If you are interested in knowing a little something about tequila than get this book. An excellent introduction to the subject that has pictures worth the price of the book. For those that would like to read this book in Spanish there is a version available. So, get this book, sit back, serve yourself some anejo, sip and enjoy the trip through Mexico and the areas that produce tequila.

An exquisite tribute to tequila and Mexico

Limon's warm, often poetic text is well-complemented by Calderwood's beautiful photography. This coffee-table book presents not just tequila, but Mexico. It is a tribute to the people who make it, to the land where the agave grows, and to tequila's place and role. This is not an in-depth guide like Cutler or Emmons offers, but it embraces the variety and depth of tequila's rich culture in Mexico. It's an enjoyable read and a terrific presentation.

Simply Marvelous

I believe this is the best representation of "the spirit of Mexico" that I have ever had the privlege of reading. The pictures portrayed the content of the text excellently. My brother, James, found page 135 absolutely stimulating! Bridget Galsworthy - you have outdone yourself!

Spirited Tequila

With luxurious photography, Tequila the Spirit of Mexico cannot go wrong. But there is something schizophrenic about it: so much good background information, but too much minutae that quickly puts such a book out of date. Distillery production in 1999, names, addresses. As a resource book, it is still good: but I would also have liked a stronger hand in its editing: the definition of joven or white/silver contradicts itself in two different areas, and the mention of the Mexican movie industry's influence on the beverage could easily have been consolidated. All in all, I would have preferred a cheaper edition in paperback that I could easily replace when the text soon falls out of date. But the photos are stunning.

An informative, fun and beautiful book

I thouroughly enjoyed this book. Not only does it include precise and interesting information on the making of tequila, but its photographs are splendid! This book is full of character and displays Mexico's best known feature: TEQUILA! From its history to its making to some delicious recepies, this book is for any Mexico lover!