Tequila is a distilled drink that is largely produced in the region around Tequila, Mexico, which is located 65 kilometres (40 miles) northwest of Guadalajara, as well as in the Jaliscan Highlands (Los Altos de Jalisco), a region in central-western Mexico.
The blue agave plant thrives in the red volcanic soils of the Tequila region, where more than 300 million of them are harvested annually. The way that agave grows varies depending on the area.
The upland Los Altos region produces larger, sweeter-tasting blue agave plants. The flavour and aroma of agaves harvested in the valley area are more herbaceous.
The Agave Landscape and Ancient Industrial Facilities of Tequila were designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2006 due to the region's historical and cultural significance.