Tequila has to be one of the ultimate party drinks. It can be knocked back neat, swallowed in between a lick of salt and a bite of lime, or added to a host of cocktails, and it is a staple in bars and clubs in many countries around the world.

The beverage is made in Mexico from the blue agave plant, which looks like a cactus but is in fact a relative of the lily. Farmers remove its sharp leaves by hand, leaving just the heart of the plant. This is then steamed in brick ovens to convert its starches to sugars, before it is passed through a mill to produce a sweet water. This liquid is fermented with yeast and distilled to create tequila. Broadly speaking, there are four types of the tipple and these are white, gold, rested and aged.

For parties and nights out, tequila cocktails are perfect and the margarita is the most popular cocktail in the UK. To make this drink, the beverage is added to orange liqour and fresh lime juice, and it is served with ice cubes and a lime wedge garnish. For best results, the glass should have a salted rim too.

One man who’s clearly a big fan of tequila is actor George Clooney. The Hollywood A-lister created his very own version of the drink in partnership with his friend Rande Gerber. Called Casamigos Tequila, to tie in with their properties in Mexico, it was launched in January 2013. The brand goes by the slogan “brought to you by those who drink it” and it seems as though Clooney and his buddy know what they’re doing. Recently, the product was awarded a Gold Medal at the Los Angeles International Spirits Competition. Commenting on their concoction, the duo stated: “Our idea was to make the best-tasting, smoothest tequila whose taste didn’t have to be covered up with salt or lime.”

Whichever brands you opt for and however you choose to drink tequila, this tasty tipple is the perfect way to get revellers in the mood!

* This is a Guest Post