Blue agave plus distillation equals heaven. At least, that's the shorthand definition of tequila, the classic liquid fire of Mexico.

Eric Williams' Cleveland restaurant, Momocho, is noted for its selection of tequilas, often served as flights on tasting menus. When asked to name some of his favorites, Williams offered his recommendations and some tasting notes.

"These are nice everyday sippers," Williams says.

• Don Julio Plata: A silver tequila. Classic agave with black pepper and floral notes.

• Patron Silver: A standard, classic agave flavor. It's crisp, clean, light and mixes well in margaritas and other drinks.

"These aged tequilas are great for sipping straight or in a really good margarita," Williams says. "I like both with dinners, because the Latin or Mexican flavors tend to pair well with citrus and other fruits. And both have hints of lemon and sweetness."

• Don Julio Reposado: Rested for 3 to 6 months. It's smooth and sweet, with pear, apple and lemon aromas.

• Herradura Reposado: Also rested, with sweet oak, honey and vanilla notes, with a hint of lemon.

"These are "no limits' tequilas that you'd break out for a reunion, a big birthday or other special occasions," Williams says. "The three are great after dinner, to sip on straight, and you don't have to add anything to it."

• El Tesoro Anejo: Aged 2 to 3 years, with a green olive back note and a nose of fresh dill, which makes it great to sip on.

• Patron Anejo: Also aged, but with a rich, clean, almost smoky note to it.

• Patron Platinum: It has been coined as "the smoothest sipping tequila ever produced." It sells for $32 for a 2-ounce pour. "I've got to tell you, it's an ultrapremium, ultrasmooth sip. It's the true connoisseur's tequila."

When the bartender serves an anejo or reposado tequila at Momocho, Williams says the standard accompaniment is an orange wedge dusted with a little ground cinnamon.

"You know what the joke is when you see someone sipping tequila and sucking on a wedge of lime, and then they make that face? It's because it doesn't taste good," Williams says. "That piece of orange really smoothes out the flavor and enhances it."