The Birthplace of Tequila
Have you ever paused while savoring your tequila-based cocktail to wonder: From where does this delightful spirit originate? The roots of your drink hold much significance, especially with a spirit as iconic as tequila.
Mexico's Liquid Gold
Those who relish Champagne know that its authenticity is tied to its French region. Similarly, the heart of tequila beats in Mexico. This celebrated beverage has a history dating back to the 1500s, predominantly distilled in Jalisco, a central region of Mexico kissed by the Pacific shores. While a few neighboring regions joined the tequila production bandwagon, Jalisco remains the epicenter of this Mexican marvel. It’s interesting to note that the journey of tequila production began in the 1600s, thanks to Don Pedro Sanchez de Tagle, who introduced the world to Mezcal wines and the distillation techniques that birthed tequila.
Curious about Mezcal? Mezcal is essentially a distilled spirit hailing from Mexico, derived from various agave plants. Tequila is a special breed of mezcal that owes its essence to the blue agave. This unique plant, colored in shades of deep blue, calls Jalisco its home. While it’s possible to cultivate blue agave in various parts of the world, only the tequila rooted in Mexican soil earns the badge of authenticity. The sprawling fields of blue agave in Jalisco ensure that your drink experiences a short, genuine journey from the fields to your glass.
True tequila aficionados would know, however, that myths like worms in the bottle have no real association with authentic tequila.
Mastering the Art of Tequila
Crafting tequila is an intricate art. The blue agave, also recognized as Blue Weber Agave, demands years to blossom to its full potential. Its upbringing calls for ample sunlight, minimal water, and sweltering temperatures, making regions like Los Altos in Jalisco a haven for this plant.
The cultivation and harvest of agave are more of an art than a mere agricultural process. The age-old techniques still hold value today. The artisans known as jimadores are at the heart of this craft.
After almost a decade of nurturing, jimadores extract the heart of this succulent – the piña. This segment, reminiscent of a pineapple, undergoes a process of cooking, mashing, and, eventually, distillation to gift us with tequila.
The wisdom and techniques of the jimadores are ancestral treasures. While modernization might steer towards mechanized harvest in the future, today, genuine tequila still dances to the rhythm of traditions.
Your Tequila, Your Way
The foundation of any sublime drink is genuine sipping tequila, and its adaptability is its charm.
Be it a Cosmo enthusiast or a Mojito lover, tequila provides a tantalizing twist to the conventional mix. Authentic tequila in a Margarita? It’s a journey from ordinary to exceptional. For those yearning for a more classical touch, a pour of two ounces of Volans Extra Añejo tequila, accompanied by ice if you prefer, promises an unparalleled sipping experience.
So, the next time you’re lost in the taste of your drink, remember to ask: Where is this tequila from? Because the origin of your spirit is its soul. As for savoring it, that’s a personal journey. For more insights and the best ways to enjoy sipping tequila, keep checking our journal.
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FROM JALISCO