Fortaleza tequila is indeed made by the Sauza family, specifically by Guillermo Erickson Sauza, who is the fifth generation of the Sauza family. The Sauza family has a long and storied history in the tequila industry, dating all the way back to 1843 when Guillermo's great-great grandfather, Cenobio Sauza, first established the family's tequila distillery.
The Sauza family has played a significant role in the development and popularity of tequila over the years. Cenobio Sauza was one of the first to export tequila to the United States, helping to introduce the spirit to a wider audience. His son, Eladio Sauza, continued the family's tequila tradition and expanded the business.
However, it is important to note that Fortaleza tequila is not produced by the larger Sauza brand that many people may be familiar with. In fact, Fortaleza is a separate and independent brand that Guillermo Erickson Sauza started in 2005. He founded Fortaleza with the goal of producing tequila using traditional methods and honoring the heritage of his family's tequila-making legacy.
Fortaleza tequila is made using traditional, artisanal methods that have been passed down through generations of the Sauza family. The agaves used to make Fortaleza are sourced from the family's estate in the highlands of Jalisco, Mexico. The agaves are harvested by hand and cooked in traditional stone ovens, which impart a unique flavor profile to the tequila.
After cooking, the agaves are crushed using a tahona, a large stone wheel pulled by a horse or mule. This traditional method of crushing the agaves helps to release the flavors and aromas locked within the plant fibers. The resulting juice, known as agave must, is then fermented using natural airborne yeasts in open-air wooden vats.
The fermented agave must is double distilled in small copper pot stills, which allows for precise control over the distillation process and helps to preserve the unique characteristics of the agave. The tequila is then aged in oak barrels, which adds complexity and depth to the final product.
One of the things that sets Fortaleza apart from other tequilas is its commitment to preserving traditional tequila-making methods. Guillermo Erickson Sauza is passionate about maintaining the integrity and authenticity of tequila production, and he takes great pride in the craftsmanship that goes into making each bottle of Fortaleza.
In my personal experience, Fortaleza tequila is a truly exceptional spirit. The attention to detail and commitment to tradition is evident in every sip. The flavors are rich and complex, with notes of cooked agave, caramel, vanilla, and spices. The finish is long and smooth, leaving a pleasant warmth in the mouth.
While Fortaleza is indeed made by the Sauza family, it is important to recognize that it is a separate brand from the larger Sauza company. Fortaleza tequila is a testament to the Sauza family's dedication to producing high-quality, artisanal tequila using traditional methods. It is a brand that honors the legacy of the Sauza family while also pushing the boundaries of what tequila can be.