El Charro Tequilas are crafted in the picturesque region of Los Altos, Jalisco, Mexico. This region, also known as the “Highlands,” is renowned for its ideal climate and volcanic soil, which contribute to the exceptional quality of agave plants grown here. As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of exploring this region and witnessing firsthand the meticulous process involved in creating El Charro Tequilas.
Los Altos, Jalisco, is located in the central part of Mexico and is nestled between the Sierra Madre Occidental mountain range and the Mexican Plateau. This unique geographical location offers the perfect combination of high altitude and distinct microclimates, resulting in agave plants that are rich in flavor and character.
One of the key factors that sets El Charro Tequilas apart is their commitment to using only 100% Blue Agave. This means that every bottle of El Charro Tequila is made from agave plants that have reached their peak maturity, typically taking around 7-8 years to grow. The agave plants are carefully cultivated in El Charro's proprietary fields, ensuring the highest quality and consistency in every batch.
The process of making El Charro Tequilas begins with the harvest of the mature agave plants. Skilled jimadores, who are experts in agave cultivation, hand-select each plant based on its maturity and quality. They use a specialized tool called a coa to remove the leaves and extract the piña, the heart of the agave plant, which is then transported to the distillery.
At the distillery, the piñas undergo a traditional cooking process to convert the starches into fermentable sugars. This is done by slow-cooking the piñas in stone ovens, allowing the sugars to caramelize and develop complex flavors. The cooked piñas are then crushed to extract the sweet juice, which is fermented using naturally occurring yeast.
After fermentation, the liquid undergoes a double distillation process in copper stills. This traditional method of distillation helps to refine the flavors and create a smooth and balanced tequila. The distillate is then aged in oak barrels, allowing it to develop further complexity and character.
El Charro offers a range of tequilas, including Blanco, Reposado, and Añejo, each with its own distinct flavor profile and aging process. The Blanco tequila is unaged, showcasing the pure and vibrant flavors of the agave. The Reposado is aged for a minimum of two months in oak barrels, resulting in a tequila with a smooth and mellow character. The Añejo tequila is aged for a minimum of one year, allowing it to develop rich and complex flavors.
As an aficionado of tequila, I can attest to the exceptional quality of El Charro Tequilas. The attention to detail in every step of the production process, from the cultivation of the agave plants to the aging of the tequila, is evident in the final product. The result is a range of tequilas that capture the essence of the Los Altos region and showcase the craftsmanship and passion of the distillers at El Charro.
El Charro Tequilas are proudly made in the region of Los Altos, Jalisco, Mexico. The combination of the high altitude, volcanic soil, and skilled craftsmanship results in tequilas that are truly exceptional. Whether enjoyed neat, in a cocktail, or paired with food, El Charro Tequilas offer a sensory experience that celebrates the rich heritage and tradition of Mexican tequila production. So, the next time you sip on a glass of El Charro Tequila, take a moment to appreciate the journey it has taken from the agave fields of Los Altos to your glass. Salud!