Tequila vs. Vodka — What's the Difference?

A distilled alcoholic beverage made from blue agave plants.

A distilled spirit made from fermented grains or potatoes.

Known for its varied and complex flavor profiles.

Originates from Eastern Europe, primarily Russia and Poland.

Commonly consumed in Margaritas or as shots.

Known for its neutral flavor profile.

A spirit native to specific regions in Mexico.

Consumed neat, on the rocks, or in cocktails.

Tequila (; Spanish: [teˈkila] (listen)) is a distilled beverage made from the blue agave plant, primarily in the area surrounding the city of Tequila 65 km (40 mi) northwest of Guadalajara, and in the Jaliscan Highlands (Los Altos de Jalisco) of the central western Mexican state of Jalisco. The red volcanic soils in the region of Tequila are well suited for growing the blue agave, and more than 300 million of the plants are harvested there each year.

Versatile and used in many mixed drinks.

A Mexican alcoholic spirit made from an agave.

Vodka (Polish: wódka [ˈvutka], Russian: водка [ˈvotkə], Swedish: vodka [vɔdkɑː]) is a European clear distilled alcoholic beverage. Different varieties originated in Poland, Russia and Sweden.

An alcoholic liquor distilled from the fermented sap of the blue agave.

An alcoholic liquor originally distilled from fermented wheat mash but now also made from a mash of rye, corn, or potatoes.

An alcoholic liquor distilled from the fermented juice of the Central American century plant Agave tequilana.

A clear distilled alcoholic liquor made from grain mash.

An intoxicating liquor made from the maguey in the district of Tequila, Mexico.

A serving of the above beverage.

Mexican liquor made from fermented juices of an Agave plant

Neutral spirits distilled (or treated after distillation) so as to have no distinctive character, aroma, taste, or color.

Strictly regulated by Mexican law.

A Russian drink distilled from rye.

Unaged colorless liquor originating in Russia

Vodka has its origins in Eastern Europe, mainly Russia and Poland.

Yes, the production of tequila is strictly regulated by Mexican law.

Vodka is a distilled spirit usually made from fermented grains or potatoes.

Tequila is a distilled alcoholic beverage made from blue agave plants in Mexico.

Tequila is made from the blue agave plant.

Tequila can have fruity, floral, or spicy flavors depending on its production and aging.

Tequila originates from specific regions in Mexico, primarily around the city of Tequila.

Vodka production is less regulated compared to tequila.

Vodka is typically made from fermented grains or potatoes.

Vodka is generally neutral in flavor.

Authentic tequila must be made in specific regions of Mexico.

Vodka can be produced in various countries without geographical restrictions.

Tequila is often consumed in Margaritas or as shots with lime and salt.

Vodka is versatile and can be consumed neat, on the rocks, or in various cocktails.

Tequila is commonly used in Margaritas, Tequila Sunrises, and Palomas.