As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can tell you that Fortaleza is indeed a highly sought-after brand in the world of spirits. One of the main reasons for its scarcity is the traditional and time-consuming method by which it is made. The production process of Fortaleza tequila is meticulously carried out, with a focus on preserving the traditional techniques used by generations of tequila makers.
Unlike many other tequila brands that have adopted modern and efficient production methods, Fortaleza still employs traditional methods that require a significant amount of time and effort. For example, the agave used to make Fortaleza is carefully selected and harvested by hand. This ensures that only the best quality agave is used in the production process.
Once the agave is harvested, it is roasted in traditional brick ovens, which further adds to the labor-intensive nature of the production process. The roasted agave is then crushed using a tahona, a large stone wheel pulled by a horse or mule. This ancient method of crushing agave fibers is slower and more labor-intensive compared to modern mechanical methods.
After the agave fibers are crushed, the resulting juice is fermented using natural airborne yeasts. This natural fermentation process takes longer compared to the use of commercial yeasts, but it contributes to the unique flavors and aromas found in Fortaleza tequila.
Furthermore, Fortaleza tequila is distilled using traditional copper pot stills. This traditional distillation method, although slower than modern continuous distillation, allows for greater control over the distillation process and helps to preserve the flavors and characteristics of the agave.
The combination of these traditional production methods results in a tequila that is highly regarded for its exceptional quality and taste. However, the labor-intensive nature of the production process limits the quantity of Fortaleza tequila that can be produced. This, coupled with the increasing demand for the brand, contributes to its scarcity in the market.
Another factor that contributes to the difficulty in finding Fortaleza tequila is its high demand. Over the past few years, there has been a growing interest in artisanal and traditionally made spirits. Consumers have become more appreciative of the craftsmanship and attention to detail that goes into producing spirits like Fortaleza.
This increased demand, coupled with the limited production capacity, has led to a shortage of Fortaleza tequila in many markets. Distributors and retailers often struggle to keep up with the demand, resulting in limited availability and making it harder for consumers to find a bottle of Fortaleza.
Additionally, the popularity of Fortaleza has been further amplified by word-of-mouth recommendations and positive reviews from enthusiasts and experts in the industry. As more people learn about the brand and its exceptional quality, the demand continues to rise, making it even more challenging to find Fortaleza tequila.
The scarcity of Fortaleza tequila can be attributed to its traditional production methods, limited production capacity, and high demand. The brand's commitment to preserving the traditional techniques of tequila making results in a spirit of exceptional quality and taste. However, this also means that it takes more time, effort, and resources to produce, leading to limited availability in the market. As the popularity of Fortaleza continues to grow, finding a bottle of this highly sought-after tequila becomes a challenge for enthusiasts and consumers alike.