Tequila is an iconic drink that represents Mexico’s rich culture and tradition…
But have you ever wondered how tequila is made? In this blog post, we’ll explore each stage of the process of making this prized beverage, from the agave field to the bottle.
“Authentic from the source, at Casa Esparza
We honor the authenticity of Mexican Tequila at every step of our process… from our plantations in the Altos de Jalisco, each stage is focused on creating unique flavor profiles.”
AGAVE CULTIVATION
The first step in the tequila-making process is the cultivation of the blue agave, the base plant for tequila production. Blue agave, known scientifically as Agave tequilana Weber, is grown primarily in the regions of Jalisco, Mexico. This crop can take 7 to 10 years to mature before being harvested.
JIMA OF THE AGAVE AND COOKING
Once the agave has matured, the jima, which is the harvesting of the agave piñas, takes place. The jimadores, experts in harvesting the agave, cut the sharp leaves off the plant to reveal the piña, which is the part that will be used in tequila production. The piñas are then slowly cooked in traditional masonry ovens or industrial autoclaves. This process transforms the starches into fermentable sugars, essential for the next stage.
EXTRACTION, FERMENTATION AND DISTILLATION
After cooking, the agave piñas are crushed to extract the sweet juice known as mosto. This must is mixed with water and fermented in large tanks. During fermentation, natural yeasts convert the sugars into alcohol, creating a mixture called mosto muerto. In distillation, the dead wort is distilled twice in copper or stainless steel stills. The first distillation produces a cloudy liquid known as ordinario, while the second distillation refines this liquid into white or silver tequila.
MATURATION AND BOTTLING
To obtain reposado, añejos or extra añejos tequilas, the liquid is aged in oak barrels. This process can last from a few months to several years, depending on the type of tequila to be produced.Aging in barrels adds additional flavors and a more complex character to the tequila.Finally, the tequila is filtered and bottled.Each bottle is carefully labeled and sealed, ready to be enjoyed by tequila lovers around the world.
CULTURE AND CELEBRATIONS
EXPLORE THE TEQUILA PROCESS
WITH Casa Esparza
Now that you know how tequila is made, you can appreciate every sip of this wonderful drink even more. From growing the agave to bottling, each step in the process is a combination of tradition and precision. Join our tequila history and live a unique experience with Casa Esparza. Cheers!