Transcription
Tequila, the spirit of Mexico. Its flavors carry the warmth of the Earth, the hands of the people who make it, and the centuries-old traditions passed down through generations. While modern distilleries produce tequila in mass quantities, there are still families who honor the old ways.
Today, we'll take a journey into the world of traditional tequila, reviewing three legendary family-owned producers: Tequila Forteleza, Tequila El Tesoro, and Tequila ArteNOM. And a bonus, Tequila Siete Leguas. My name is Robert Moore. Welcome to School of Wine and Spirits. Today, we're going to uncover the story behind some of the most authentic Tequilas on the market. What makes these brands truly unique is not just the taste, but the tradition. These family-owned distilleries use time-honored methods that have been handed down through generations.
Let's start by exploring the traditional tequila-making process itself. The story of tequila begins with the Blue Weber Agave, a plant that takes between 7 to 10 years to mature. These plants are carefully harvested by skilled workers known as jimadores, who use a special tool known as a coa to remove the spiny leaves and extract the heart of the plant, called the piña.
Once harvested, the piñas are traditionally slow-roasted in brick ovens or stone ovens. A crucial step that helps break down the complex sugars inside the agave. These ovens cook the piñas for 2 to 3 days, giving the tequila its distinctive rich and earthy flavors.
After roasting, the cooked piñas are crushed to extract their juice. The tahona, a large stone wheel, is one of the oldest and most revered tools in tequila making. It gently crushes the agave, preserving the natural flavors and allowing for a fuller-bodied tequila.
The juice is then transferred to open-air fermentation tanks, often wooden or stone, where natural yeast from the surrounding environment begins the fermentation process. This is where the magic happens, converting sugar into alcohol, but also absorbing the unique characteristics of the air and environment, imparting more flavor.
Finally, the fermented liquid is distilled, often in copper stills, where it's purified and concentrated. The distillation process typically happens twice, giving the tequila its smooth finish. Depending on the type, the tequila is then aged in barrels to develop more complex flavors, or it's bottled straight away as blanco. The process may seem simple, but it's the dedication to these traditional methods, handed down from generation to generation, that makes these Tequilas so special.
Now, let's dive deeper into the history of our first producer, Tequila Forteleza, and how they're keeping tradition alive. Tequila Forteleza's story begins over a century ago with Don Felipe J. Sauza, one of the most influential figures in the tequila industry. In the mid-1800s, Don Felipe Sauza made significant contributions to tequila, from advocating the use of only Blue Agave to defining tequila as a distinct product of Mexico.
Fast forward to today, and Don Felipe's great-great-grandson, Guillermo Sauza, continues the family tradition with Tequila Forteleza. After years of dormancy, Guillermo revived the family distillery in the early 2000s. Under his leadership, Forteleza has gained a cult following for its adherence to traditional methods. Everything at Forteleza is done by hand in small batches. The piñas are slow-cooked in small brick ovens, then crushed using a traditional tahona wheel. Fermentation takes place in open wooden vats, using natural yeast from the environment to infuse every batch with a unique flavor. The distillation process is carried out in small copper stills, and each bottle of Forteleza is carefully handled, labeled, and hand-bottled. The attention to detail and dedication to traditional methods is what sets Forteleza apart in a world increasingly dominated by mass production. Tequila Forteleza is a living tribute to the Sauza family's legacy, showing us that the best Tequilas aren't made quickly or cheaply; they're made with respect for the land and the process.
Let's look at three expressions of Forteleza: Blanco, Reposado, and Añejo.
Tequila Forteleza Blanco is a 100% Blue Agave Blanco tequila. It's made by Tequila Forteleza at the Forteleza Distillery, Destilería La Fortaleza, and owned by the Sauza family. Specifically, it's 80 proof and unaged. It's made of 100% Blue Weber Agave, and it's crystal clear. The MSRP is about $45 to $55 a bottle. Where you can find it, and the production volume is estimated approximately 53,000 to 66,000 bottles per year.
The nose is fresh and authentic, with strong notes of cooked agave, complemented by citrus zest, earthy minerality, and a hint of olive brine, giving it a rustic, authentic character. Crisp and vibrant, the palate bursts with the natural sweetness of roasted agave, layered with flavors of lemon, peppery spice, and a touch of herbs. There's a rich, earthy quality that keeps the balance between sweetness and spice. The finish is long and clean, with a lingering warmth of pepper, agave sweetness, and a slight salinity, leaving a refreshing, mineral-driven aftertaste.
Tequila Forteleza Blanco is an exceptional example of an authentic, artisanal tequila produced using traditional methods. It showcases the natural flavors of agave in their purest form. The combination of citrus, earth, and peppery spice makes it a vibrant yet complex spirit, ideal for sipping neat to fully appreciate its character or enhancing a premium cocktail. This tequila offers an authentic taste of tradition, honoring the craftsmanship of the Sauza family and their deep-rooted legacy in the tequila world.
Tequila Forteleza Reposado is also made at Destilería Forteleza. It is 80 proof and aged for 7 months in American Oak barrels, typically ex-bourbon barrels. It's made from 100% Blue Weber Agave, and the aged spirit is a light golden straw color. The MSRP is approximately $65 to $80 a bottle, and production volume is estimated at 27 to 33,000 bottles annually.
The nose opens with warm notes of cooked agave, butterscotch, and vanilla, followed by hints of citrus, oak, and subtle spices. There's also a touch of earthiness and a faint olive brine characteristic unique to Forteleza Tequilas. The palate is rich with a creamy texture and prominent flavors of baked agave, butter, and a gentle sweetness of vanilla. This is complimented by a light note of cinnamon, toasted oak, and a delicate balance of citrus zest and spicy pepper. There's a touch of saltiness that rounds out the flavor profile. The finish is long and smooth, with lingering notes of oak, cooked agave, and a hint of butterscotch. Subtle spice and peppery notes fade out slowly, leaving a clean, slightly earthy flavor.
Tequila Forteleza Reposado is a standout, known for its artisanal production methods and rich, authentic flavors. The balance between the sweet, creamy vanilla and butterscotch from the oak and the earthy, cooked agave makes it a complex yet approachable tequila. The hints of olive brine and saltiness add unique layers, making it appealing to both tequila enthusiasts and newcomers alike. It's a great choice for sipping neat, but its complexity also makes it a versatile ingredient in premium tequila cocktails. A must-try for anyone looking for a handcrafted, authentic tequila experience.
Rounding it out is the Tequila Forteleza Añejo. This tequila is 80 proof and aged for 24 months in American Oak barrels. It's made of 100% Blue Weber Agave, and the aged spirit's color is rich amber with golden hues. The MSRP is between $90 and $120, and the estimated production volume is between 13,000 and 20,000 bottles annually.
The nose gives you beautifully complex aromas, beginning with strong notes of baked agave, vanilla, and caramel, layered with butterscotch, toasted oak, and delicate hints of nutmeg and cinnamon. There's also a touch of dried fruit (think dried figs and dates) alongside subtle traces of citrus and the signature olive brine note that Forteleza is known for. The palate is luxurious and full-bodied, delivering flavors of caramel, butter, and rich toasted oak, followed by creamy notes of vanilla, toffee, and dark chocolate. The influence of the American Oak shines through with gentle spices like cinnamon and clove, balanced with the natural sweetness of the agave. Hints of citrus zest and earthiness provide added depth, while a touch of pepper keeps the experience lively. The finish is long, warm, and elegant. It lingers with a warm, harmonious blend of oak, spice, and sweet agave, with faint notes of dark chocolate and vanilla that slowly fade into a soft, buttery aftertaste. A delicate, peppery bite leaves a lasting impression.
Tequila Forteleza Añejo is a masterfully crafted spirit that exemplifies the artistry of traditional tequila production. Aged to perfection, it delivers a refined balance between the sweetness of the agave and the earthiness of the agave, creating a rich and satisfying tasting experience. The layers of caramel, vanilla, and toasted oak are complimented by the complexity of spices and a hint of signature olive brine, making this a standout Añejo for both casual sippers and seasoned connoisseurs. It's ideal for sipping neat, as the flavors evolve beautifully with every sip, offering a luxurious and memorable experience. Forteleza is a name synonymous with quality. This legendary producer will continue to shine for years to come.
Next, we travel to the highlands of Jalisco to the La Altena Distillery, home to El Tesoro tequila and the legendary Camarena family. Founded in 1937 by Don Felipe Camarena, La Altena continues to be a shining example of traditional tequila craftsmanship. Today, Don Felipe's grandson, Carlos Camarena, runs the distillery. Carlos is a master distiller known for his deep knowledge of the land and his unshakable commitment to quality. Under his guidance, El Tesoro remains one of the few premium Tequilas still made using traditional methods.
At La Altena, the agave is grown in the mineral-rich soils of the highlands, which give El Tesoro its signature sweetness. The agave is slow-cooked in traditional brick ovens, then crushed using a tahona, just like in the old days. Fermentation takes place in open wooden vats, allowing natural yeast to work their magic. Distillation is done in small copper stills, where Carlos insists on minimal filtration, preserving the tequila's full body and natural flavors. What makes El Tesoro stand out is its bold yet balanced flavor profile.
Let's take a look at some of their expressions.
Tequila El Tesoro Blanco is made by Tequila El Tesoro, Don Felipe, at the La Altena distillery in the town of Arandas in the Jalisco highlands of Mexico. It's 80 proof and unaged. As a Blanco, it's made from 100% Blue Weber Agave, and the color is absolutely clear. At approximately $40 to $50 MSRP, production volume is estimated at 133,000 to 160,000 bottles annually.
It's fresh and vibrant, and the nose bursts with classic aromas of cooked agave, citrus zest (especially lime and grapefruit), and a touch of herbal and earthy notes. Subtle hints of pepper and minerality add complexity, while a faint trace of pineapple and green olive linger in the background. Crisp and clean with a silky texture, the palate opens with rich flavors of sweet cooked agave, followed by a vibrant citrus brightness. There's a touch of herbaceousness alongside notes of black pepper and the delicate earthiness that reflects the terroir of the highlands of Jalisco. The flavor is pure and unadulterated, allowing the true essence of the agave to shine through. Smooth and slightly peppery with a lingering sweetness of agave nectar, the finish is fresh and clean with a light citrus and herbal character, leaving a pleasant minerality and subtle spice on the tongue.
Tequila El Tesoro Blanco is a true representation of traditional hand craftsmanship. Its pure, unaged nature allows the natural flavor of the agave to take center stage, offering a beautifully balanced profile of sweetness, citrus, and peppery spice. Perfect for sipping neat or using in premium tequila cocktails, El Tesoro Blanco stands out for its authenticity and the craftsmanship behind its production. With its crisp, clean finish and vibrant character, this tequila is a must-try for those seeking a genuine expression of highland tequila tradition.
Tequila El Tesoro Reposado is an 80 proof spirit aged 9 to 11 months in American Oak ex-bourbon barrels. It's made from 100% Blue Weber Agave, and the aged spirit is a light golden amber color. At an MSRP of $50 to $60 a bottle, its estimated production is between 67,000 and 93,000 bottles a year.
The nose is a delightful mix of cooked agave, vanilla, and butterscotch, with underlying notes of oak and baking spices. There are also subtle hints of honey, caramel, and a light touch of citrus that adds brightness to the profile. The nose is inviting, with a well-balanced sweetness and spice, and it's silky and smooth. This Reposado offers rich flavors of baked agave, complimented by vanilla and caramel sweetness from the oak aging. On the palate, you'll also find soft notes of butter, toffee, and almond, along with a gentle spiciness from the wood that mingles with cinnamon and clove. A touch of pepper keeps it lively, balanced by its pleasant citrus zest that enhances the overall experience. The finish is medium to long, with a lingering warmth and showcases toasted oak, sweet agave, and hints of spice. The finish fades with a gentle butterscotch note and a touch of peppery spice, leaving a clean, satisfying aftertaste.
Tequila El Tesoro Reposado strikes a perfect balance between the vibrant agave flavors in a Blanco and the subtle oak richness of a longer-aged tequila. Its time in ex-bourbon barrels imparts smooth notes of vanilla, butterscotch, and caramel, while maintaining the earthy, peppery character that's true to the highlands of Jalisco. This Reposado is versatile and rich, making it perfect for sipping neat or in premium cocktails. A beautifully crafted tequila that showcases the expertise behind the El Tesoro brand, offering both complexity and approachability.
Tequila El Tesoro Añejo is an 80 proof elixir aged 2 to 3 years in American Oak ex-bourbon barrels. It's made from 100% Blue Weber Agave, and it exhibits a deep amber color with golden highlights. At an MSRP of $75 to $85 a bottle, its estimated production is 40 to 67,000 bottles annually.
The nose is rich and inviting and offers deep notes of cooked agave, toasted oak, and vanilla, with layers of caramel, toffee, and honey. As it opens up, hints of baking spices like cinnamon and nutmeg emerge, along with a touch of dried fruit and a subtle chocolate aroma, creating a beautifully complex bouquet. Luxurious and full-bodied, it's velvety smooth. The palate delivers caramel, vanilla, and butterscotch from the oak aging that are perfectly integrated with the sweet, earthy essence of the agave. Notes of toasted almonds, dark chocolate, and spiced oak develop with light traces of cinnamon, nutmeg, and pepper, adding depth. A subtle hint of citrus provides balance, making the palate both rich and refined. Long and warm, the finish leaves lingering notes of toasted oak, vanilla, and a hint of dark chocolate. It's beautifully balanced with a light peppery spice that gradually fades, leaving a touch of agave sweetness and a pleasant buttery aftertaste.
Tequila El Tesoro Añejo is exceptional and showcases masterful balance between agave purity and oak complexity. Aged to perfection, it captures the richness of bourbon barrels without overpowering the natural sweetness of the agave. With its luxurious notes of caramel, vanilla, and toasted oak, along with hints of chocolate and spice, this tequila offers a rich, complex experience perfect for sipping neat. El Tesoro Añejo is a testament to the distillery's commitment to tradition and craftsmanship, making it a must-try for tequila connoisseurs who appreciate depth and elegance. The Camarena family's unwavering dedication to traditional methods ensures that every sip of El Tesoro is a journey into the heart of highland tequila.
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Moving along, we have Tequila ArteNOM and the Ornelas family. Here, we visit the town of Tequila itself, where the Ornelas family has been producing tequila for more than a century. The Ornelas have a long and storied history in the tequila industry, and today, brothers Eduardo and Jaime Ornelas continue that legacy with Tequila ArteNOM. ArteNOM is a brand that blends tradition and innovation. The Ornelas family is committed to preserving the traditional techniques they've used for generations. The agave piñas are slow-roasted in brick ovens, and though they use a roller mill for extraction instead of a tahona, the emphasis on quality remains the same. Like Forteleza and El Tesoro, ArteNOM uses open-air fermentation with natural yeasts, ensuring that the unique characteristics of the environment are absorbed into the tequila. Distillation is carried out in copper stills, which add to the crisp, clean flavors that ArteNOM is known for.
Let's look at several expressions.
Tequila ArteNOM Blanco is made from 100% Blue Weber Agave. It's made by Tequila ArteNOM at El Llano Distillery in Tequila, Mexico, and it's owned by the Ornelas family. At 80 proof, the Blanco is unaged and it's crystal clear. At $25 to $35 a bottle MSRP, production is estimated between 93,000 and 107,000 bottles per year.
The nose is fresh and herbaceous, with strong notes of cooked agave, accompanied by citrus zest, green pepper, and hints of earthy minerality. The palate is crisp and clean, with a burst of agave sweetness balanced by peppery spice. There are also notes of fresh citrus, light brine, and subtle herbal undertones. The finish is short to medium, with lingering pepper spice, a touch of salinity, and a final flash of earthy, vegetal agave.
ArteNOM Blanco is a great example of traditionally crafted, affordable Blanco that highlights the true flavor of high-quality agave. The Ornelas family's focus on artisanal methods results in a crisp, clean tequila that's versatile, whether you're enjoying it neat, on the rocks, or in a cocktail. Its balance of agave-forward sweetness, citrus, and spice makes it a fantastic everyday tequila for both newcomers and seasoned tequila drinkers.
Tequila ArteNOM Reposado is a 100% Blue Weber Agave Reposado tequila. At 80 proof, it's aged for 4 to 6 months in American White Oak barrels, typically they've been previously used for bourbon making. The aged spirit is a light golden straw color and runs about $30 to $35 a bottle MSRP. Production is estimated to be somewhere between 47,000 and 67,000 bottles a year.
The nose is delicate yet inviting, with notes of light vanilla, baked agave, oak, and hints of toasted almonds and caramel. Smooth and well-balanced, the palate has a mellow sweetness from the barrel aging. On the palate, flavors of cooked agave are prominent, accompanied by vanilla, light oak, a touch of peppery spice, and a whisper of citrus zest. The medium-long finish has lingering vanilla and oak, followed by a gentle peppery warmth and a soft, earthy agave aftertaste.
Tequila ArteNOM Reposado strikes a perfect balance between the freshness of a Blanco and the richness of light oak aging. The Ornelas family's commitment to traditional methods and minimal intervention allows the natural agave flavors to shine, while the aging process adds complexity without overwhelming the tequila essence. This Reposado offers excellent value, with layered flavors that make it perfect for sipping neat or adding depth to a premium Margarita or cocktail. Ideal for those who enjoy a refined but approachable tequila experience.
Rounding it out, Tequila ArteNOM Añejo is also a 100% Blue Weber Agave Añejo tequila. It's 80 proof and aged for 14 to 18 months in American White Oak barrels that were previously used in bourbon maturation. Production is estimated to be between 27,000 and 40,000 bottles a year. It has a rich amber color with golden hues, and the MSRP comes in at somewhere between $40 and $45 bucks a bottle.
The nose is deep and inviting, with aromas of roasted agave, caramel, and vanilla, layers of dried fruit, cinnamon, toasted oak, and a hint of chocolate. Silky and rich, with flavors of caramelized agave, the palate offers vanilla and toffee up front, followed by complex notes of dark chocolate, oak, and a touch of dried fruit. The barrel aging imparts a smooth, balancing sweetness with spice. The long and satisfying finish has lingering vanilla, oak, and a gentle spice, fading into a subtle earthiness, leaving a warm, fine sensation.
Tequila ArteNOM Añejo is an exceptional example of a well-aged tequila that remains true to its agave roots while balancing the complexity and smoothness of extended barrel aging. The Ornelas family's meticulous care in crafting this Añejo results in a tequila with a perfect balance of sweet, oaky richness and peppery spice. Its layered flavors make it an ideal sipper for those who appreciate depth and sophistication in their tequila, while also offering enough character to elevate premium cocktails. Perfect for a special occasion or when you're seeking something truly refined. Tequila ArteNOM offers a more modern twist on traditional methods, but the Ornelas family's respect for their heritage shines through in every bottle.
Now that we've explored where these remarkable Tequilas come from and how they are made, let's wrap things up by highlighting what makes each of these family-owned producers special. Tequila Forteleza, El Tesoro, and Tequila ArteNOM each carry with them generations of expertise and craftsmanship handed down through their respective families. What makes these brands truly stand out in a crowded market isn't just their taste, but the way they honor the past. From the slow roasting of agave in traditional brick ovens to the ancient use of the tahona wheel, these distilleries follow time-honored practices that bring out the deep, natural flavors of agave. While the world of tequila is evolving rapidly, these families stay true to their roots, producing tequila the way it's been done for centuries. And it's not just about the methods; they are family-owned and operated businesses where every bottle tells a story of legacy, dedication, and passion. Whether it's the Sauza family of Forteleza, the Camarena family of El Tesoro, or the Ornelas family of ArteNOM, each brand reflects the unique identity of its founders.
Let's explore one bonus producer and their offerings: Tequila Siete Leguas.
Tequila Siete Leguas was founded in 1952 by Don Ignacio González Vargas in Atotonilco El Alto, Jalisco, one of the key regions within the Tequila Denomination of Origin. I'm surprised I got through that. The brand was named after the horse "Siete Leguas" (Seven Leagues), which was ridden by the Mexican revolutionary hero Pancho Villa, symbolizing strength, endurance, and freedom. Siete Leguas has remained a family-owned and operated distillery, and it prides itself on maintaining traditional production methods that have been passed down through generations. Over the decades, the brand has stayed true to its artisanal roots, which have helped it gain a loyal following among tequila connoisseurs.
Siete Leguas uses 100% Blue Weber Agave, which is grown in the highlands of Jalisco. The highland agave is known for producing tequila with sweeter, fruitier notes due to the nutrient-rich red clay soil. Agaves are hand-harvested by agave farmers, and only the best piña agaves are selected. The piñas are split and cooked in traditional stone ovens for around 48 hours. This slow-cooking process helps to break down the complex sugars in the agave, giving the tequila a distinct, rich flavor.
Siete Leguas employs a unique dual method for crushing the cooked agave: a tahona (the large stone wheel pulled by mules) crushes some of the cooked agave to extract the juice (mosto). This method is centuries old and adds earthy complexity to the flavor. Some of the agave is also crushed using a more modern roller mill, which is faster but still considered a traditional method. The use of both methods creates a balance between the earthy, mineral notes from the tahona-crushed agave and the cleaner, fruitier profile from the roller mill.
The extracted mosto is then fermented in open wooden vats using natural yeast. The open-air fermentation allows the local environment to influence the flavor of the tequila. The fermented liquid undergoes double distillation in copper pot stills. The copper helps to purify the tequila, enhancing its smoothness while retaining essential agave flavors. The distillation takes place in two separate distilleries, El Centenario and El Oro, each contributing to the brand's characteristic flavor profile.
Siete Leguas produces both unaged and aged Tequilas. The aging process is done in American White Oak barrels, previously used in bourbon maturation, and the length of aging varies based on the product.
Let's look at several expressions.
Tequila Siete Leguas Blanco is a Blanco tequila made by Casa Siete Leguas at the Destilería Siete Leguas. At 80 proof, it's an unaged spirit made with 100% Blue Weber Agave and is absolutely clear. The MSRP is $45 to $55 per bottle, with estimated production volume between 200,000 and 300,000 bottles annually.
The nose is bright and fresh, with prominent agave aromas. Herbal notes of cooked agave are complemented by hints of citrus zest (primarily lemon and lime), black pepper, and earthy minerality, with a touch of fresh grass and green herbs. The palate is clean and crisp, with agave sweetness that comes through up front, offering bold, earthy agave flavors balanced by peppery spice and a slight vegetable quality. There are also notes of fresh citrus with mineral undertones that add depth and complexity. The finish is medium-long, with a pleasant peppery bite and a lingering freshness of citrus and agave. It fades cleanly, leaving a refreshing minerality on the palate.
This tequila is a testament to the purity and the authenticity of traditional tequila making. It offers a beautiful balance of natural agave sweetness and peppery spice, with bright citrus and earthy notes. Its clean, crisp finish makes it ideal for sipping neat or as the foundation for high-quality cocktails. This expression is perfect for tequila purists seeking a well-crafted Blanco that reflects the essence of the agave with a delicate interplay of fresh flavors and a lively character.
Let's move on to Tequila Siete Leguas Reposado. Again, it's made with 100% Blue Weber Agave at 80 proof. It's aged for 8 months in American Oak barrels that previously held bourbon. The distilled spirit is a light golden straw color, with an MSRP of about $50 to $65 per bottle. The estimated production of this product is 100 to 150,000 bottles annually.
The nose provides a harmonious blend of cooked agave and light oak aromas. Vanilla and caramel notes emerge from the barrel aging, intertwined with hints of fresh herb, toasted almonds, and soft baking spices. A touch of citrus peel adds brightness, with delicate floral undertones completing the complex bouquet. The palate is smooth and well-rounded. The agave character is still very present, but it's softened by the aging process, giving way to richer flavors of vanilla, caramel, and light oak. There's a hint of dried fruit (like apricot) along with a touch of cinnamon and clove. The interplay between the sweet, spicy, and oaky notes makes this Reposado particularly enjoyable for sipping. The finish is medium-long and warming, with lingering flavors of vanilla, light oak, and gentle spice. It's smooth with a mild peppery bite and subtle hints of agave sweetness that carry through until the end.
Overall, Tequila Siete Leguas Reposado strikes an exquisite balance between the vibrancy of the agave and the mellowing influence of oak aging. Its 8 months in oak lend the spirit a rich, rounded profile with layers of vanilla, caramel, and spice, while still allowing the natural agave flavors to shine through. The result is a smooth, refined tequila perfect for sipping neat, yet versatile enough for upscale cocktails. Siete Leguas Reposado offers a luxurious and approachable drinking experience for both seasoned tequila aficionados and newcomers alike.
Finally, we have Tequila Siete Leguas Añejo. It's a 100% Agave Añejo tequila at 80 proof. It's aged for 24 months in American Oak barrels that previously held bourbon. It's made from 100% Blue Weber Agave and is a rich amber color with golden hues. At $70 to $85 for a bottle MSRP, only 50 to 75,000 bottles are estimated to be made annually.
The nose is elegant and inviting, with deep aromas of roasted agave balanced by the rich influence of oak. Expect layers of vanilla, caramel, and butterscotch, complemented by toasted almonds, dark chocolate, and hints of dried fruits (such as figs or raisins). Several notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and orange peel add complexity to the bouquet. The palate is luxuriously smooth and full-bodied. The agave character melts seamlessly with the rich flavors of butterscotch, dark chocolate, and caramelized sugar. Oak tannins provide structure, while notes of dried fruit, toasted nuts, and a touch of sweet spice (cinnamon and cloves) deepen the flavor profile. A slight hint of coffee and dark cocoa round out the palate, creating a sophisticated sipping experience. The finish is long and warming, with a velvety smoothness that lingers. The oak influences are more pronounced here, leaving behind notes of vanilla, toasted oak, and gentle spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. The finish is balanced by a final whisk of sweet agave and dark chocolate.
This tequila is a masterclass in refinement, offering a perfect harmony between agave-forward flavors and the rich complexities imparted by two years of aging in American Oak. This expression boasts a luxurious mouthfeel and a well-rounded depth of flavor, making it ideal for sipping neat or on the rocks. The balance of sweet agave, caramel, chocolate, and oak spices creates an elevated drinking experience. Siete Leguas Añejo is a standout tequila for those who appreciate nuanced and aged spirits with a sense of tradition and craftsmanship.
There's a connection between Patron and Siete Leguas. Siete Leguas contracted by the creators of Patron, John Paul DeJoria and Martin Crowley, who wanted to develop a premium tequila targeting the US luxury market. The master distillers of Siete Leguas played a key role in shaping the early identity and production quality of Patron. For a number of years, Siete Leguas produced Patron's tequila using their traditional methods and facilities. Patron later shifted to their own production facilities as demand for the product increased. Now, Siete Leguas produces outstanding quality tequila in the tradition of the old ways.
So, the next time you're sipping on one of these Tequilas, remember it's not just about the drink; you're tasting history. The piñas were harvested by hand, the agave was roasted with care, and the juice was distilled following centuries-old methods. These are the traditions that make tequila one of the world's greatest spirits. To tequila, to tradition, and to the families who continue to keep these beautiful methods alive. Whether you're a longtime tequila lover or you're someone new to exploring the spirit, I encourage you to seek out these brands: Tequila Forteleza, El Tesoro, Tequila ArteNOM, and Siete Leguas. Each one is a taste of heritage, crafted with the same dedication that started many generations ago. There's a reason why these Tequilas stand out; they're made with love, and that love is passed on to every bottle. Thank you for joining me on this journey into traditional tequila making. If you enjoyed this video, please give it a thumbs up, subscribe to the channel, and hit the notification bell so you don't miss our upcoming deep dives into the world of spirits. Cheers!
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