Tequila Pueblo Viejo is a delightful tequila that hails from the beautiful region of Jalisco, Mexico. Specifically, it is produced at the San Matias distillery, which holds a rich history and is considered one of the oldest distilleries in the area.
What sets Pueblo Viejo apart from other tequilas is that it is made from 100% agave grown in the Highlands of Jalisco, also known as Los Altos. The Highlands are renowned for their ideal growing conditions for agave plants, with the high altitude and rich volcanic soil contributing to the flavorful and aromatic characteristics of the agave.
I had the pleasure of visiting the San Matias distillery and witnessing firsthand the meticulous process that goes into creating Pueblo Viejo tequila. The distillery is nestled in the heart of the agave fields, surrounded by rows upon rows of vibrant blue agave plants. It was a truly mesmerizing sight to behold.
The agave plants used to make Pueblo Viejo are carefully selected and harvested by skilled jimadors, who have mastered the art of knowing exactly when the agave is ripe and ready for harvest. Once harvested, the agave hearts, or piñas, are transported to the distillery, where they are roasted in traditional brick ovens to extract the sweet nectar within.
After the roasting process, the piñas are crushed to release the juice, which is then fermented with the help of natural yeasts. This fermentation process takes place in large wooden vats, allowing the flavors to develop and the sugars to transform into alcohol. It is fascinating to witness the transformation of the agave juice into a bubbling liquid, filled with the promise of a delicious tequila.
Once fermentation is complete, the liquid is distilled in traditional copper pot stills, a method that has been used for centuries to create tequila. This distillation process helps to refine the flavors and remove any impurities, resulting in a smooth and balanced tequila.
The blanco expression of Pueblo Viejo tequila is the purest expression of the spirit, as it is unaged and bottled straight from the still. This allows the vibrant flavors of the agave to shine through, with notes of citrus, pepper, and a hint of earthiness. It is a versatile tequila that can be sipped neat, used in cocktails, or enjoyed with a splash of soda and a squeeze of lime.
Pueblo Viejo tequila is a true gem from the Highlands of Jalisco, Mexico. Produced at the historic San Matias distillery, it captures the essence of the agave plants grown in the region, resulting in a tequila that is full of character and flavor. Whether enjoyed on its own or in a cocktail, Pueblo Viejo is a worthy addition to any tequila collection.