Why is Fortaleza hard to find?

Answered by Randall Whitlock

Fortaleza, a renowned brand, has gained a reputation for being one of the most sought after and traditionally made brands in the market. This, in turn, contributes to its scarcity and difficulty in finding it. The brand's dedication to traditional production methods sets it apart from many others, making it a favorite among tequila enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike.

One of the main reasons why Fortaleza is hard to find is its limited production. Unlike larger, more commercial tequila brands, Fortaleza focuses on producing smaller quantities of high-quality tequila. This commitment to quality over quantity means that the brand cannot meet the overwhelming demand it generates. As a result, Fortaleza becomes a rarity, and finding it can be quite a challenge.

Furthermore, Fortaleza's production process is labor-intensive and time-consuming. The brand follows traditional methods passed down through generations, using only the finest ingredients and handcrafted techniques. The agave plants used to make Fortaleza tequila are grown in the rich soils of the Jalisco region in Mexico, where they are carefully cultivated for several years before being harvested. This lengthy maturation process ensures the highest quality agave, resulting in a tequila with exceptional flavors and aromas.

Once the agave is harvested, it is then roasted in traditional stone ovens and crushed using a tahona, a large stone wheel. This ancient method of extraction adds complexity and depth to the tequila's flavor profile. The extracted juices are then fermented using natural airborne before undergoing double-distillation in copper pot stills. This meticulous production process, combined with the attention to detail and craftsmanship, contributes to the exceptional quality of Fortaleza tequila.

The high demand for Fortaleza tequila has surged in recent years, largely due to its growing popularity among tequila enthusiasts and collectors. As more people discover and appreciate the brand's traditional production methods and exceptional taste, the demand for Fortaleza has skyrocketed. However, the brand's limited production capacity simply cannot keep up with this surge in demand, leading to a scarcity of Fortaleza tequila in the market.

Furthermore, the exclusivity of Fortaleza tequila adds to its desirability and difficulty in finding it. The brand has gained a cult following, with enthusiasts eagerly seeking out bottles for their collection or to savor on special occasions. This exclusivity, combined with the inherent rarity of the tequila, drives up the cost and makes it even more challenging to find.

In my personal experience as a sommelier and brewer, I have witnessed the growing interest in Fortaleza tequila firsthand. The demand for this brand has surged in recent years, and it is not uncommon to see people searching high and low for a bottle of Fortaleza. I have encountered numerous customers who are willing to go to great lengths to obtain a bottle, whether it be through online auctions, specialty liquor stores, or even directly from the distillery in Mexico.

To summarize, Fortaleza tequila's scarcity can be attributed to its limited production, labor-intensive traditional production methods, high demand, exclusivity, and growing popularity among tequila enthusiasts. These factors combine to create a brand that is highly sought after but challenging to find. So, if you come across a bottle of Fortaleza, consider yourself lucky and savor every drop of this exceptional tequila.