Quita Penas tequila is produced at Tequilera Corralejo, a distillery located in the Mexican State of Guanajuato. As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of visiting this distillery and learning about the meticulous process involved in creating Quita Penas tequila.
Tequilera Corralejo is situated in the town of Penjamo, which is known for its rich agricultural heritage and ideal growing conditions for the blue agave plant. The distillery itself is a beautiful and traditional hacienda-style facility, surrounded by fields of agave plants as far as the eye can see. This setting truly encapsulates the essence of tequila production in Mexico.
At Tequilera Corralejo, the production of Quita Penas tequila begins with the cultivation and harvesting of the blue agave plants. The agaves are grown for several years before they are ready to be harvested, ensuring that they have reached their optimal sugar content. This attention to detail in the cultivation process contributes to the high quality of Quita Penas tequila.
Once the agave plants have been harvested, they are transported to the distillery where they undergo the process of roasting. This involves cooking the agave hearts, or piñas, in traditional brick ovens. The roasting process not only softens the piñas, making them easier to extract the juice from, but also imparts unique flavors and aromas to the tequila.
After roasting, the piñas are crushed to extract the juice, which is then fermented using the natural yeast present in the environment. This fermentation process takes place in large stainless steel tanks, where the sugars in the agave juice are converted into alcohol over several days. The use of natural yeast in the fermentation process adds complexity and character to Quita Penas tequila.
Once fermentation is complete, the tequila is distilled in copper pot stills. This traditional method of distillation allows for the separation of impurities, resulting in a smooth and refined spirit. Tequilera Corralejo takes great pride in their distillation process, ensuring that Quita Penas tequila retains its distinct flavor profile and quality.
After distillation, the tequila is aged in oak barrels to further develop its flavors and characteristics. The length of aging can vary depending on the desired style of tequila. Some expressions of Quita Penas tequila are aged for a short period, while others are aged for several years to achieve a more complex and nuanced flavor profile.
Throughout the entire production process, from cultivation to bottling, Tequilera Corralejo maintains strict quality control measures to ensure that Quita Penas tequila meets the highest standards. This commitment to excellence is evident in every sip of Quita Penas tequila, as it embodies the rich heritage and craftsmanship of Mexican tequila production.
Having visited Tequilera Corralejo and witnessed firsthand the passion and dedication of the people behind Quita Penas tequila, I can confidently say that it is a brand that is deeply rooted in tradition and quality. From the agave fields to the distillery, every step of the process is carried out with meticulous attention to detail, resulting in a tequila that is truly exceptional.
Quita Penas tequila is made by Tequilera Corralejo, a distillery located in the Mexican State of Guanajuato. The combination of traditional production methods, high-quality ingredients, and a commitment to excellence sets Quita Penas tequila apart as a premium and authentic Mexican spirit.