Montezuma Tequila White is indeed made from 100% blue agave. The use of the term “agave” in relation to tequila refers to the plant from which tequila is derived. It is important to note that not all tequilas are made from 100% agave, as some lower quality tequilas may be made using a blend of agave and other sugars.
The blue agave plant, also known as Agave tequilana Weber azul, is indigenous to the highlands of Jalisco, Mexico. This region is known for its ideal climate and volcanic soil, which provide optimal conditions for the growth of high-quality agave plants. These plants take an average of 7-10 years to mature before they are harvested for tequila production.
Once the agave plants have reached maturity, they are carefully harvested and the leaves are removed to reveal the heart of the plant, known as the piña. The piñas are then cooked to convert the starches into fermentable sugars. This process can be done using traditional brick ovens or more modern autoclaves, depending on the tequila producer's methods.
After cooking, the piñas are crushed to extract the juice, which is then fermented using yeast. This fermentation process converts the sugars in the agave juice into alcohol. The resulting liquid, known as “mosto”, is then distilled to separate the alcohol from impurities and create a clear, high-proof spirit.
In the case of Montezuma Tequila White, the distilled spirit is aged for a minimum of two months in oak barrels. This aging process allows the tequila to develop more complex flavors and aromas, as well as mellowing out any harshness in the spirit. The oak barrels also impart a subtle hint of vanilla and caramel notes to the tequila.
I have personally had the opportunity to try Montezuma Tequila White, and I found it to be a smooth and flavorful tequila. The 100% blue agave content is evident in its clean and crisp taste, with a subtle sweetness that is characteristic of high-quality tequilas. It has a pleasant aroma of agave and oak, and the aging process gives it a smooth finish.
Montezuma Tequila White is indeed made from 100% blue agave. The careful production process, from the cultivation of the agave plants to the aging in oak barrels, results in a premium tequila that is enjoyed by tequila enthusiasts around the world.