There has been a lot of buzz lately about a new type of tequila that starts out purple but turns pink when mixed into cocktails. This unique color-changing spirit has captured the curiosity and attention of tequila aficionados and casual drinkers alike. But what exactly causes this tequila to shift hues, and what is the story behind this mystical purple elixir? In this article, we’ll take a closer look at how this colorful tequila is made, what’s responsible for its chameleon-like properties, and why some refer to it as “magical tequila”. Whether you’re a professional bartender looking to wow patrons with a show-stopping cocktail or just an adventurous imbiber in search of a conversation-starting spirit, read on to learn all about the purple tequila that turns pink.
What Causes the Purple Color?
This mystifying purple tequila gets its vibrant starting color from a special ingredient added during the distillation process: butterfly pea flower extract. The butterfly pea flower (clitoria ternatea) is an exotic blossom native to parts of Asia that is known for producing a brilliant blue-purple hue. When this extract is blended into the tequila during manufacturing, it infuses the agave liquor with a striking royal purple color. The rich, eye-catching purple coloration sets this tequila apart from clear, traditional blanco tequilas. It also lends the spirit a more terroir-driven, small-batch craft flair.
Butterfly Pea Flower Properties
So what is it exactly about the butterfly pea flower that allows it to color spirits so vividly? The plant contains high concentrations of flavonoid antioxidants called anthocyanins. Anthocyanins are pH-sensitive pigments that cause the butterfly pea flower’s vivid bluish-purple color. When used to infuse liquors like tequila, they impart a similarly vibrant hue. The anthocyanins act as pH indicators – they change color according to the acidity levels of their environment. This unique chemical property is what causes the purple tequila to shift to pink when acidity levels change.
The Science of the Color Change
Under the initial neutral to alkaline conditions of the distilled tequila, the anthocyanins take on their bluish-purple color. However, when the purple tequila is mixed into a cocktail containing acidic ingredients like citrus juices or sour mixers, the acidity levels rise. This causes the anthocyanin pigments to change structure and take on a new vibrant pinkish tone. The science behind this color change is called a pH-induced structural transformation. So in short, it’s the butterfly pea flower anthocyanins responding to the change in acidity that causes the magical color shift from purple to pink.
How is the Tequila Made?
So how exactly is this color-morphing spirit produced? Traditional methods are used to harvest and distill premium 100% blue weber agave into a crystalline clear blanco tequila. Then, once the base spirit is distilled, dried butterfly pea flowers are steeped to extract their vivid purple anthocyanins. This butterfly pea extract is blended into the distilled agave liquor, allowing the anthocyanins to infuse the spirit with a rich royal purple tint. Sometimes the blend may also contain other natural blue or violet botanicals like blue cornflower or hyssop to enhance the purple hue. The infused purple elixir is then bottled, resulting in a smooth, quality tequila with a stunning color.
Small-Batch Production
This purple tequila is produced in small batches by specialty distillers seeking to create unique, custom spirits. Large commercial manufacturers mass-produce conventional clear tequila, but artisanal makers individually craft their purple tequila in limited runs. This small-batch production allows for experimentation and innovation in the distilling process. The attention to detail also results in a high-quality, handmade sipping tequila with distinctive flavor and appearance. So while most tequilas you’ll find are crystal clear, this specially infused purple product stands out for both its color and small-batch origins.
What Does the Purple Tequila Taste Like?
Since this vibrant spirit starts as a well-distilled 100% agave tequila, the initial flavor profile before mixing is similar to a traditional blanco tequila. On the palate, expect a smooth, crisp tasting liquor with signatures of agave, black pepper, and citrus. Some subtle herbal notes from the butterfly pea extract add extra complexity, but the tequila still retains a clean, agave-forward taste. However, once mixed into cocktails with acidic ingredients, that’s when the liquid’s color shifts from purple to pink. And according to some mixologists, the pigment change also brings out new flavor dimensions. The increased acidity accentuates fruitier, sweeter, and more floral notes. So sipping the tequila plain provides one flavor experience, while using it in mixed drinks creates a transformed taste as dynamic as the changing colors.
Cocktail Possibilities with Color-Changing Tequila
This vivid tequila opens up a whole new world of exciting cocktail possibilities for adventurous bartenders. The spirit’s color-morphing magic can add a visually stunning element to drinks and let creative mixologists put on an eye-catching show for guests. Here are just a few cutting-edge cocktail ideas to try with purple tequila:
The Pink Flamingo
| 1.5 oz Purple Tequila |
| 1 oz Ruby Red Grapefruit Juice |
| 1 oz Lime Juice |
| 0.5 oz Agave Nectar |
| Pink Peppercorn Rim |
Combine ingredients over ice and shake. Strain into a salt-rimmed glass filled with ice. Garnish with a lime wheel. The citrus juices will turn the purple tequila pink when mixed.
The Violet Fog
| 2 oz Purple Tequila |
| 1 oz Dry Vermouth |
| 0.5 oz Violet Liqueur |
| Dash Orange Bitters |
Stir ingredients with ice and strain into a coupe. Garnish with a lemon twist. The vermouth and bitters blend the purple into a light violet pink.
Desert Rose Margarita
| 2 oz Purple Tequila |
| 1 oz Lime Juice |
| 0.5 oz Prickly Pear Puree |
| 0.5 oz Agave Nectar |
| Pink Himalayan Salt Rim |
Shake over ice then strain into a salt-rimmed glass with fresh ice. Garnish with lime and prickly pear slices. A gorgeous pink margarita.
Where to Find This Color-Changing Spirit
This brilliant purple tequila is still relatively new on the liquor scene, so it may not be widely available yet at common local liquor stores. But a growing number of specialty spirits shops and high-end bars are starting to carry the product due to its innovative color-changing properties. Depending on your state’s liquor distribution, you may be able to find it at select locations:
– Premium liquor stores that sell craft, imported, or small-batch spirits
– Mexican grocery stores or markets with an expansive tequila selection
– Hip bars and lounges that specialize in unique craft cocktails
– Online spirit retailers that sell interesting, hard-to-find liquors
The tequila’s availability is currently limited, but demand from mixologists and tequila fans is likely to make it more common in coming years. Be sure to call ahead to check inventory, as this popular purple liquor often sells out fast!
Is the Color Safe to Drink?
Since the vibrant purple color comes from natural butterfly pea flower extract rather than artificial additives, it is completely safe for consumption. The anthocyanin pigments are plant-derived compounds already common in many fruits, vegetables, and flowers. While the color may seem unnatural at first glance, using natural butterfly pea extract as a culinary dye is a tradition in parts of Asia. The extract has simply been adapted to handcraft spirits like tequila. So rest assured, sipping this radiant elixir poses no health risks or side effects. The only concern you may have is looking a bit peculiar with pink-stained lips after enjoying a glass!
Should It Be Refrigerated After Opening?
Like any liquor, it is recommended to refrigerate the bottle of purple tequila after opening to help preserve freshness and flavor. The lower temperature helps slow down oxidative reactions and prevent the spirit from spoiling or tasting off. However, thanks to the higher proof of tequila, this colorful spirit doesn’t require refrigeration as urgently as lower-proof liquors. An unopened bottle can be stored in a cool, dark place for many months without deteriorating. Once opened, transfer the tequila bottle to the refrigerator door for ideal preservation. If kept chilled, the opened liquor should last several months to a year before quality begins to fade. Remember to tightly seal the bottle cap to prevent evaporation. Enjoy this magical tequila soon after cracking the bottle open for the best taste experience!
Does the Color Fade Over Time After Mixing?
The dazzling color change from purple to pink only lasts temporarily in cocktails containing acidic ingredients. If left to sit, the drink will eventually revert to a less vibrant, more bluish-purple hue. How long the bright pink color persists depends on just how acidic the beverage is. More acidic drinks with lots of citrus hold the pink tint longer before fading back to purple. Less tangy cocktails will start to lose their vivid pinkness after just 5-10 minutes. So for the most stunning presentation, be sure to serve up purple tequila cocktails shortly after mixing. But even if the shade starts to shift back, the drink will still have a unique ombré appearance.
Conclusion
With its chameleon-like color transformation, this innovative purple tequila certainly adds magic and visual flair behind the bar. But beyond being a novelty party trick, the spirit also provides a smooth, palate-pleasing drinking experience with or without mixers. Thanks to its handcrafted small-batch production and quality agave pedigree, the tequila tastes great in both straight and cocktail form. So next time you want to infuse your bar with some creativity and color, reach for the mystical purple tequila that turns pink. Just be sure to have your camera ready so you can document the magical color change as you sip!