History of Tequila
The spirit of Jalisco in every drop
Tequila Process
Geographic Zone
Tequila can only be produced in specific regions of Mexico, mainly in Jalisco and limited areas of Guanajuato, Michoacán, Nayarit, and Tamaulipas.
Agave Cultivation
Blue agave (Agave tequilana Weber blue variety) takes 6 to 10 years to mature before being harvested.
Jima (Harvesting)
The jimador cuts the agave leaves with a coa to obtain the piña, which can weigh between 20 and 90 kilograms.
Cooking
The piñas are cooked in traditional masonry ovens or autoclaves to convert starches into fermentable sugars.
Milling
Juices are extracted from the cooked agave using a tahona (traditional millstone) or mechanical shredder.
Fermentation
Juices ferment in wooden or stainless steel vats for 3 to 12 days, where yeasts convert sugars to alcohol.
Distillation
Two distillations are performed in copper or stainless steel stills. The result is ordinary tequila that will then be classified.
Bottling
Tequila is bottled by category: blanco (unaged), reposado (2-12 months), añejo (1-3 years) or extra añejo (over 3 years).
Historical Stages
Early Distillation
Spanish conquistadors introduce distillation techniques, applying them to agave mezcal already made by indigenous peoples.
Viceregal Era
The first formal taverns and distilleries are established in the Tequila region of Jalisco.
Tequila Haciendas
Great tequila families like Cuervo, Sauza, and Herradura consolidate the industry.
Industrialization
Tequila is industrialized and gains international recognition. The denomination of origin is established in 1974.
UNESCO Heritage
The agave landscape and ancient industrial facilities of Tequila are declared a World Heritage Site.
Tequila Categories
Blanco / Silver
No aging or rested less than 2 months. Pure agave flavor, crystal clear.
Reposado
Aged 2 to 12 months in oak barrels. Light golden color with wood notes.
Añejo
Aged 1 to 3 years in oak barrels. Deep amber color, complex and smooth flavor.
Extra Añejo
Aged over 3 years. Dark mahogany color, notes of caramel, chocolate, and spices.
The Agave Landscape
The Agave Landscape and Ancient Industrial Facilities of Tequila were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2006, recognizing the cultural and landscape importance of this region of Jalisco.
Tasting & Pairing
Exclusive tequila tasting event with food pairing. Requirement: must be 21 years or older.
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