Tequila – Not Made the Old Fashion Way

Meche and Ricardo are the coolest couple in Guadalajara Mexico;  some years ago at their wedding reception they greeted the guests with tequila served in hollowed-out roma tomato decorated with a slice of serrano chile.  That was unique, impressive and a fun way to kick-off the party.

The tequila was quite special.  Humberto, father of the bride, searched and test tasted many artisanal boutique tequilas in the state of Jalisco.  Only until he was satisfied did he make his selection for the wedding celebration. Today it’s difficult to find boutique distillers because they cannot compete with the corporations that now dominate the marketplace.

Market demand for tequila caused the industrialization of tequila.  New engineering processes, use of enzymes and additives have replaced traditional production techniques, and many argue it’s changed the flavor profile of Mexico’s national drink.  The well known brands such as the house of Cuervo, Sauza, Herredura, Cazadores, Don Julio are now all owned by multinational corporations and there are others too.  Celebrities and affluent American entrepreneurs are producing high end priced brands.  These products are designed to be smooth for the American palate. Google “celebrity tequila” to fine the names of these celebrities.  I don’t buy brands like Patron, Casa Amigos, Avion, Dragon, Wabo Cabo and there are plenty others.

Only two brands, “Fortaleza and El Tesoro de San Felipe” make tequila the old fashion way.  The agave core (piña) is cooked in brick ovens, then mashed using a large stone wheel (tahona) and the mash (mosto) is fermented  in wooden bins.  There is good news; younger generations of tequila producing families that sold to the multinationals, like tequilas Sauza, Don Julio and Casadores are producing new brands of quality tequila. I recommend the following brands that are produced by old-line families – Fortuleza, Siete Leguas, Don Felipe, Tapatio, Hacienda Vieja.  These folks have tequila in their DNA, not to say, there are many other great brands.

How to make a shot glass from tomato.

Use a small roma tomato and slice off the bottom and top.  Use a melon scoop tool and hollow out the tomato.  Garnish with lime, slice of green chile, a narrow scallion or few sprigs of chives.

Buen  Provecho

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