Tequila Fortaleza, also known as Los Abuelos, is a brand of tequila that holds a special significance in Mexico. The name “Los Abuelos” translates to “the grandfathers,” which pays homage to the ancestors of Guillermo Erickson Sauza, the founder of the brand. This distinction is not just a marketing ploy but holds a deeper meaning as it reflects the rich history and tradition behind Tequila Fortaleza.
To understand the relationship between Fortaleza and Los Abuelos, it is essential to delve into the background of the brand. Guillermo Erickson Sauza comes from a family with a long-standing history in the tequila industry. His great-great-grandfather, Don Cenobio Sauza, was a pioneer in the production and promotion of tequila in the late 19th century. This heritage has been passed down through generations, and Guillermo continues to uphold the family legacy with Tequila Fortaleza.
Fortaleza, or Los Abuelos, is crafted using traditional methods that have been preserved over the years. The distillery, located in the town of Tequila in Jalisco, Mexico, operates much like it did in the 19th century. From harvesting the agave plants to the distillation process, the focus is on maintaining the authenticity and integrity of the tequila production.
One of the notable aspects of Fortaleza is its use of a traditional stone oven for cooking the agave piñas. This method imparts a distinct flavor profile to the tequila, characterized by earthy and cooked agave notes. The piñas are then crushed using a tahona, a large stone wheel dragged by a horse or mule. This traditional method of extraction adds a unique touch to the tequila, resulting in a more rustic and artisanal product.
After fermentation, Fortaleza tequila is distilled in copper pot stills, which further contributes to its flavor and quality. The attention to detail and adherence to traditional techniques set Fortaleza apart from many modern tequila brands that rely on more efficient and mass-production methods.
Now, to address the question of whether Fortaleza and Los Abuelos are the same, the answer is yes. Fortaleza is the brand name, while Los Abuelos is the particular edition or label under which the tequila is bottled. It serves as a tribute to Guillermo Erickson Sauza's ancestors and signifies the deep-rooted family history and traditions that are integral to the brand.
It is worth mentioning that the Los Abuelos edition of Fortaleza tequila is highly regarded among tequila enthusiasts and connoisseurs. The attention to detail in the production process, the use of traditional methods, and the family heritage behind the brand all contribute to its reputation for exceptional quality.
Fortaleza and Los Abuelos are essentially the same tequila, with Los Abuelos representing a specific edition that honors the brand's ancestral roots. The name Los Abuelos serves as a reminder of the rich history and tradition that is ingrained in every bottle of Tequila Fortaleza.