Dulce Vida Tequila takes pride in being certified additive-free. As an expert sommelier and brewer, I had the opportunity to visit the distillery in the village of San Ignacio Cerro Gordo at Campanario in Jalisco, Mexico (NOM 1443) to evaluate the production process myself. It was an enlightening experience that allowed me to understand the dedication and commitment of Dulce Vida in ensuring the purity and quality of their tequila.
During my visit, I had the chance to witness every step of the production process, from the harvesting of the agave plants to the bottling of the final product. One of the key aspects that impressed me was the emphasis on using only natural ingredients and avoiding any additives. This commitment to preserving the traditional production methods and maintaining the integrity of the tequila truly sets Dulce Vida apart.
Additives can often be used in the production of tequila to enhance flavors, colors, or even mask imperfections. However, Dulce Vida takes a different approach. They believe in allowing the natural flavors and characteristics of the agave to shine through without any interference. This dedication to authenticity and transparency is evident in the final product.
To ensure the absence of additives, Dulce Vida follows a meticulous production process. They carefully select ripe and mature agave plants, which are then slow-cooked in traditional brick ovens. This slow-cooking process allows the agave to develop its unique flavors naturally, without the need for any artificial enhancers.
After cooking, the agave is crushed and the juice is extracted for fermentation. Dulce Vida uses only natural yeast strains for fermentation, further enhancing the natural flavors of the tequila. The fermentation process is closely monitored to ensure the optimal development of flavors and aromas.
Once fermentation is complete, the tequila is distilled using traditional copper pot stills. This distillation method helps to refine and purify the tequila, removing any impurities and creating a smooth and flavorful spirit. Again, no additives are used during this crucial stage of the production process.
After distillation, the tequila is aged in American oak barrels to develop its unique character and complexity. The aging process allows the tequila to interact with the wood, imparting rich flavors and aromas. Dulce Vida carefully selects barrels that have been previously used for bourbon, ensuring a balanced and harmonious aging process.
Throughout my visit, I was impressed by the commitment of the Dulce Vida team to maintaining the authenticity and purity of their tequila. From the selection of agave plants to the bottling of the final product, every step is carefully executed to ensure the absence of additives and the preservation of the natural flavors of the agave.
Dulce Vida Tequila is certified additive-free. Their dedication to using only natural ingredients and traditional production methods sets them apart in the tequila industry. During my visit to their distillery, I witnessed firsthand the commitment to authenticity and purity that goes into every bottle of Dulce Vida. It is truly a tequila that can be enjoyed with confidence, knowing that no additives have been used to enhance or alter the natural flavors of the agave.