Tequila is one of the most complex, sophisticated and misunderstood spirits around. Made from the distillation of 100% Agave, true tequila is produced using a very specific species of agave called Agave Tequilana Weber Blue Variety. Influenced by the terroir in which it is grown, this particular agave plant requires between 8 and 12 years to develop before it is ready to be harvested. The unique effect of 12 springs, summers, falls and winters generates a multifaceted raw material with many characteristics. Because it is produced from this mature agave, tequila possesses a flavor profile that is more intricate than any other spirit in the world.
CLOSE
Tequila's history is a question that sparks debate amongst even the most well-informed tequila scholars. Until recently, popular belief has been that tequila was first produced after the Spanish arrived in Mexico from Europe in the early 1600s. However, current research shows that tequila's roots can be traced to a time long before this. In alliance with the University of Guadalajara, Siembra Azul's team of experts is deeply involved in uncovering evidence to support this new theory, and the brand is excited to unravel the mystery of tequila's illustrious origin in Mexico.
CLOSE
In order to receive the "Appellation of Origin" certification from the Mexican government, tequila must be produced in one of the following five Mexican states: Jalisco, Michoacan, Tamaulipas, Guanajuato and Nayarit. These states encompass areas of highlands and lowlands. Where the agave is grown has significant impact on the flavor profile of each batch of tequila that is produced.
Highland Tequilas possess a flavor profile with a strong fruity, herbaceous character. This is in part due to the high quality of the nutrient-dense soil, the consistent climate and overall cooler temperatures which make for larger agave plants that are higher in sugars and complexity.
Tequilas produced in the lowlands are made with smaller agave plants, resulting in a dry and more aggressive flavor profile. Siembra Azul chose to produce tequilas in the highlands because the team of experts behind the brand prefers the sweeter flavor profile of highland tequilas.
CLOSE
Like any other fine spirit, "good" tequila should possess depth and complexity of flavors and nose. There are more than 300 different characters found in tequilas, each influenced by the terroir where it is grown and the methods used for production. The complexity of the flavors found in good tequilas can range from light and fruity to deep and smoky - and everywhere in between.
CLOSE
Blanco
Transparent in color with silver shades. Clean, clear and crisply flavored, Blanco tequila best portrays the essence of the pure blue agave plants from which it is distilled. Blanco is favored by tequila experts who feel it best represents the true organoleptic profile of agave.
Reposado
Hay-like in color with shades of gold. Rested for a minimum of two months, but not more than 12, a Reposado tequila offers a perfect balance of agave flavors with notes it draws from the barrel in which it is aged.
Añejo
Oily in texture and amber colored, the color can range from copper to reddish. An Añejo tequila is aged anywhere from 12 months to 3 years. The flavor profile emphasizes the barrel notes with a less assertive flavor of agave.
CLOSE
1. That tequila is best enjoyed with lime and salt. Like most fine spirits, tequila should be sipped and savored without either of these additives.
2. That tequila should be served in a shot glass. Fine tequila is better served in a large open snifter.
3. That tequila bottles include a worm in the bottom. In reality – tequila never has included a worm. Mezcal, which is produced in a different region and from other agave species, is the spirit which is famous for including a worm in the bottle.
CLOSE
For a novice tequila drinker, a great place to start when choosing a tequila is to draw parallels between the flavor profiles of Blanco, Reposado and Añejo to the tastes of more familiar spirits. For example, a drinker who enjoys vodka or gin will most likely appreciate the bright, young flavors found in a Blanco tequila. Single malt scotch drinkers will likely find beauty in a Reposado tequila. A palate that enjoys the strong presence of tannins usually found in a spirit which has been aged for over 10 years, will cherish the flavors found in an Añejo. Fans of blended scotches will particularly enjoy tequilas produced in the highlands.
CLOSE
Fine tequila is best consumed slowly from a large snifter which allows air to enter the bouquet of the tequila. However, a fine tequila, as with any other "fine" spirit, will always elevate the quality of a cocktail.
CLOSE
With an astonishing growth of 46% in the past 5 years, more and more consumers are beginning to understand the beauty and versatility of tequila as it secures its position as one of the most complex and rich spirits available. With more sophisticated palates discovering tequila, the bright future of tequila reflects the industry's growing attention to quality as small batch and artisan brands such as Siembra Azul enter the marketplace.
CLOSE
Siembra Azul is the meticulous result of an extremely well-monitored production process which is supervised by a team of expert tequila scholars and connoisseurs. Wrought from only the very best hand-selected blue agave plants, Siembra Azul is produced in the highlands of Jalisco during the winter months in small batches, is a kosher certified and double distilled, super-premium spirit of the finest quality. Siembra Azul takes great care at every step of production - from its pesticide-free cultivation of the agave, to the slow-roasting in clay ovens that are cleaned after each batch to the use of virgin oak barrels when aging their tequilas. Siembra Azul's artisan approach is also contrary to the recent trend within the tequila industry for small producers to sell to large corporations. Siembra Azul is also dedicated to the education of U.S. consumers about the culture and history of tequila. The brand donates a percentage of its proceeds to The Siembra Azul Foundation – which supports Mexican and Latin immigrants by raising awareness on key issues affecting Mexicans living in the U.S. and provides them with critical information and assistance to help improve their quality of life.
CLOSE