Gran Centenario tequila is made by Jose Cuervo, a renowned and historic distillery that has been producing tequila for over 250 years. The story of Gran Centenario begins with Lazaro Gallardo, a tavern owner and tequila producer who is credited as the very first Tequila Master Distiller in Mexico.
The year was 1895 when Gallardo created Gran Centenario, a tequila that would soon become a symbol of Mexican craftsmanship and tradition. From its humble beginnings, Gran Centenario has grown to be recognized as one of the finest tequilas in the world, thanks to the dedication and expertise of the Jose Cuervo family.
I have had the pleasure of visiting the Jose Cuervo distillery in Mexico, and I can attest to the passion and craftsmanship that goes into every bottle of Gran Centenario. The distillery itself is steeped in history, with its rustic buildings and traditional production methods. It is a place where time seems to stand still, and the art of tequila-making is celebrated.
One of the things that sets Gran Centenario apart is the use of traditional production techniques. The agave plants, which are the heart and soul of tequila, are carefully selected and harvested by hand. The piñas, or the core of the agave plant, are then cooked in traditional brick ovens, allowing the sugars to ferment and develop their unique flavors.
After fermentation, the agave juice is distilled using copper pot stills, a method that has been used for generations. This traditional distillation process helps to preserve the unique characteristics of the agave, resulting in a tequila that is smooth, flavorful, and full-bodied.
Another key aspect of Gran Centenario's production is the aging process. The tequila is aged in oak barrels, which impart a rich and complex flavor profile to the final product. The length of aging can vary depending on the specific expression of Gran Centenario, with some tequilas aged for as long as five years.
The result of this meticulous craftsmanship is a tequila that is truly exceptional. Gran Centenario tequilas are known for their smoothness, complexity, and depth of flavor. Whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in a cocktail, each sip of Gran Centenario is a journey through the rich heritage and tradition of Mexico.
Gran Centenario tequila is made by Jose Cuervo, a distillery with a long and storied history in the world of tequila. The dedication to traditional production methods, the careful selection of agave, and the artful aging process all contribute to the exceptional quality of Gran Centenario tequilas. Whether you are a tequila connoisseur or simply enjoy a good drink, Gran Centenario is a brand that embodies the spirit of Mexico and the craftsmanship of its people.