Clase Azul tequila is made at a distillery located in the town of Santa Maria Canchesda, Mexico. This small town is situated in the state of Jalisco, which is known as the birthplace of tequila. Jalisco is a region rich in history and tradition when it comes to tequila production, and Santa Maria Canchesda is no exception.
When I had the opportunity to visit the Clase Azul factory in Santa Maria Canchesda, I was immediately struck by the beauty of the surroundings. The town is nestled in the highlands of Jalisco, surrounded by picturesque landscapes of agave fields and rolling hills. The air was filled with the sweet aroma of the agave plant, which is the key ingredient in tequila production.
The Clase Azul factory itself is a testament to the craftsmanship and attention to detail that goes into making their tequila. The facility is a blend of traditional and modern techniques, with each step of the production process carefully monitored and executed by skilled artisans.
One of the highlights of the Clase Azul factory tour was witnessing the traditional method of cooking the agave hearts, known as piñas. The piñas are slowly cooked in traditional brick ovens, which impart a distinct flavor to the tequila. This slow cooking process allows the sugars in the agave to caramelize, resulting in a rich and complex flavor profile.
After the agave hearts are cooked, they are crushed and the juice is extracted. This juice, known as aguamiel, is then fermented using natural yeast in large wooden vats. The fermentation process can take several days, during which the sugars in the aguamiel are converted into alcohol.
Once the fermentation is complete, the tequila is distilled multiple times to achieve the desired purity and complexity. The distillation process is carefully controlled to ensure that only the finest flavors and aromas are captured in the final product.
After distillation, the tequila is aged in oak barrels for extended periods. This aging process adds depth and character to the tequila, allowing it to develop rich flavors and aromas. The length of aging varies depending on the type of tequila being produced, with some expressions aged for up to five years.
During my visit to the Clase Azul factory, I had the opportunity to taste a range of their tequilas, each showcasing the unique characteristics of the brand. From the smooth and balanced Clase Azul Reposado to the rich and complex Clase Azul Ultra, each expression had its own distinct personality.
The Clase Azul factory in Santa Maria Canchesda, Mexico, is where this luxury tequila brand is made. Located in the heart of Jalisco, the distillery combines traditional methods with modern techniques to produce high-quality tequilas aged for extended periods. A visit to the Clase Azul factory is not only a chance to learn more about tequila production but also an opportunity to immerse oneself in the rich history and culture of Mexico's most famous spirit.