Jalisco's Blue Agave

Mexico may be famous for tequila but it's the striking blue agave plant that really deserves all of the recognition. The state of Jalisco, in Western Mexico, is where tequila was first developed from the blue agave plant and it's the only place in Mexico where tequila can be produced. Traveling through the area, an intense blue cloud covers the places where blue agave plantations blanket the landscape.During pre-colonial times, the Aztecs discovered that the plant harbors honey when lighting struck and burnt the plants. They also discovered a thick,white foam that would eventually be distilled to create tequila. Agave nectar has recently become a popular sweetener but tequila has claimed fans for several centuries. Jalisco produces more than 80% of all blue agave and I loved gazing at the elegant plants although the prickly points helped me realize that they are much better to look at than touch!