Tequila is a popular alcoholic beverage that originates from Mexico. It is made from the agave plant, which is native to the country. There are many different types of tequila, each with its own unique flavor profile and production process. However, what many people may not know is that not all tequila brands are Mexican-owned.
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Mexican-owned tequila brands are those that are owned and operated by Mexican companies or families. These brands often have a strong connection to the culture and traditions of Mexico, and they take great pride in producing high-quality tequila that represents the best of their country. Whether you are looking to try something new or simply want to enjoy a classic tequila cocktail, there are many Mexican-owned tequila brands to choose from that are sure to satisfy your taste buds.
La Gritona
This brand uses only agave that has aged for around ten years when the plant reaches full maturity. La Gritona is a rested tequila, not an aged one. This spirit only stays in reused whiskey barrels for eight months resulting in an herbaceous tequila with a strong agave flavor. Expect a robust finish without much of a burn from this liquor.Â
Fortaleza
Fortaleza has a long history despite only being created in 2005. The distillery sits on a family property that operated for years before the business was sold. However, the family kept the property and generations later started a brand making artisanal tequila. Their traditionally produced tequila comes in several varieties.
Tequila Tromba
While other tequila brands tout their celebrity collaborations, Tequila Tromba, celebrates its Master Distiller Marco Cedano. After working for luxury brands in the industry for decades, Cedano launched his own using the highest quality agave from Jalisco. The result is a range of tequilas with citrus notes and many herbaceous flavors.Â
Tequila Espinoza
Tequila Espinoza uses only Blue Tequilana Weber Agave from the foothills of Colima. The conditions of this region result in produce rich in fruity yet spicy flavors. Aged and rest tequilas from Espinoza mature in Allier French casks, resulting in a smoother finish and soft mouthfeel while retaining lots of agave taste.Â
Casa Mexico Tequila
While this tequila isn’t a celebrity brand, they have celebrity partners Mario Lopez and Oscar de la Hoya. These two investors came after the brand was established and came with more than just cash in hand. Both are tequila aficionados and understand the importance of traditional production.Â
Casa Dragones
Casa Dragones specializes in producing small batches of sipping tequila, renowned for its mellow flavor and an extra smooth finish. Founded by Bertha Gonzalez, it’s an example of a Mexican-owned tequila brand that is also women-led. Hand harvesting is one of the core practices of this distillery, with each agave plant selected carefully at peak ripeness.Â
Camarena
Using a mix of modern and traditional techniques, Camarena produces an award-winning tequila with an exceptionally smooth finish. They make silver, reposado, and añejo varieties, each offering bright, clean flavors with unique tasting notes. These qualities make the Camarena tequila brand to enjoy in cocktails or straight.Â
Casa Noble Tequila
Casa Noble Tequila, founded by Maestro Tequilero Jose Hermosillo, makes a sipping tequila best enjoyed with friends. The agave is certified organic and grown on the same estate using traditional methods. Casa Noble ages its tequila in French Oak barrels resulting in sweet flavor profiles and aromatic noses.Â
Clase Azul
Founded over twenty years ago, Clase Azul was created to share the joy of Mexican culture, which the brand spread with sales of its spirit and the vessels they arrive in. This brand develops its recognizable decanters decorated with designs by regional artists. As for tequila, there are lots of options. Clase Azul makes unique spirits with certain types of agave from around the region.
Corralejo Reposado
Corralejo Reposado roasts its 100% Blue Weber Agave in clay ovens for 36 hours after harvest. The agave is then pressed to extract the juice to begin the fermenting process. What makes this distiller different is the signature yeast strain cultivated from their very first press. The yeast plays a crucial role in maintaining the standard of flavors expected from tequila.Â
Siete Leguas
One of the few Mexican-owned tequila brands with over seventy years of tradition, Siete Leguas attributes its success to the red soil of Jalisco and the people who produce with care and intention. Ignacio Vargas founded the brand and instituted the practice of artisanal production. Several types of this tequila, including aged, single-barrel varieties, are available.Â
Tequila Moderno
Tequila Moderno comes in aged and silver varieties with a subtle sweetness. These spirits are made in the traditional way and are a favorite option for mixing in cocktails. Though traditional methods are used, this product doesn’t have artisanal pricing making them one of the most affordable options without sacrificing flavor.Â
Tequila El Jefe
An award winner, Tequila El Jefe, has been lauded for taste and package design. Though Mexican-owned, this spirit was crafted with the American palate in mind, resulting in a smooth tequila with great flavor. Creating a spirit for universal tastes didn’t mean sacrificing traditional techniques, which are still used in the production of this spirit.Â