Tequila Time in Tequila, Jalisco

Tequila, located in the heart of Jalisco, Mexico, is the epicenter of tequila production. Here, the blue agave plant, the sole ingredient in true tequila, thrives in the rich volcanic soil. I had the opportunity to visit a distillery and witness the magic of tequila-making firsthand.

From tasting different tequilas

to learning the process at Los Abuelos distillery, I observed the fascinating transformation of agave into tequila. The Time that Tequila spends in massive wooden barrels

play a crucial role in aging the tequila, imparting unique flavors and characteristics to each batch. Some distilleries even personalize their barrels with photographs of family members who contribute to the tequila production

The process is a blend of tradition and modern techniques. The jimadores, skilled agave harvesters, carefully select and harvest the mature plants. The piñas,

the heart of the agave, are then cooked in ovens to release their sugars.

The cooked agave is crushed using a traditional stone wheel called a tahona

extracting the sweet agave juice. This juice is then fermented and distilled, resulting in the clear spirit we know as tequila.

The bottling process is equally meticulous,

ensuring each bottle contains the highest quality tequila. The ceramic tops, each hand-painted, add a touch of artistry to the final product.

The distillery's exterior, with its rustic charm and colorful flower pots provides a welcoming ambiance. The "Cava La Fortaleza" sign

and the Los Abuelos truck,

speak to the distillery’s dedication and pride in producing high-quality tequila.

Beyond the distillery walls, fields of blue agave stretch out towards the horizon, framed by palm trees,

The terrain, with its rolling hills, provides a unique terroir that contributes to the distinctive flavors of tequila.

Even though I’m a fan of neat tequila, it was a privilege to witness this process.