What is Agave? Agave is a succulent plant native to Mexico , with spiky leaves and a rosette formation that thrives in arid climates. It is often mistaken for cactus, but it belongs to the Asparagaceae family , and has over 200 varieties. Among them, Blue Weber Agave is the most famous, as it is the primary source of tequila . Agave has been used for centuries by indigenous people for making rope, sweeteners, and even as a source of needle and thread (using its spines). Its sweet sap, known as aguamiel , can be fermented to make pulque , a traditional Mexican drink, and distilled to create tequila. The Birth of Tequila Tequila is a distilled spirit made from the blue agave plant , primarily in the region surrounding the city of Tequila, in the state of Jalisco, Mexico. To make tequila: The agave plant matures over 7–10 years . The leaves are cut off, and the piña (heart of the agave) is extracted. The piñas are cooked to convert the starches into sugars. They are crush...