This email is intended for adults of legal purchase age and older.
SALUD! FROM CARLOS CAMARENA, EL TESORO MASTER DISTILLER
Spring is always a special time of year at La Alteńa distillery. We prepare for heavy rains in late May, and we bring El Tesoro Platinum® Tequila to the front of the bar for its refreshing, peppery flavor.
While many admire its ability to blend with juices and other spirits, I prefer to sip it straight from a caballito (little horse). This tall, slender shot glass is modeled after a hollow bull’s horn, which is what the Spanish colonists used to drink their spirits centuries ago.
As you begin planning your Cinco de Mayo celebrations this year, we’re already celebrating some good news here at the distillery. Once again, our tequilas have been honored at the prestigious San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
El Tesoro Platinum Tequila won a silver medal, and our Reposado and Ańejo each received gold. A double gold medal was awarded to El Tesoro Paradiso, a rare blend of tequilas aged in barrels once used to create fine cognac. We’re very humbled to receive these awards, which reaffirm our commitment to continue bringing you tequila the authentic way.
Salud!
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TEQUILA'S TOP HOLIDAY
Cinco de Mayo falls on a Saturday this year, opening up the possibilities for some exciting and creative celebrations.
For a home-based gathering, fire up the grill and make Cinco de Mayo the new start of the barbecue season. Put out some chicken breasts, shrimp, or steaks, and liven them up with salsa, guacamole, sour cream, cheese, cornbread, tortillas, and pica de gallo.
What’s pica de gallo? It’s a refreshing accompaniment similar to salsa, but the ingredients aren’t cooked and it’s not as runny. Here’s a simple pica de gallo recipe to get you started:
Pica de Gallo
· 2 white onions, finely diced
· 2 large fresh tomatoes, finely diced
· 2 fresh jalapenos, finely diced
· 1/3 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
· 1 clove garlic, minced
· Juice of 1 orange
· Juice of 2 limes
· 2 tsp. El Tesoro Platinum® Tequila
· 1 tsp. salt
· 1/8 tsp. pepper
Mix everything together and chill overnight in the refrigerator. Serve cold as a side dish.
Whether you’re inviting friends over or heading to the local cantina, award-winning El Tesoro Tequilas lend sophistication and authenticity to your Cinco de Mayo festivities. To find some fun and exciting places to purchase El Tesoro, either by the glass or by the bottle, use our store and cantina locator at eltesorotequila.com
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TREASURED RECIPES
Mexico City Martini
1.5 parts El Tesoro Platinum® Tequila
1/2-part Grand Marnier®
Splash of Cranberry Juice
Squeeze of Fresh Lime Juice
Shake with ice and strain into a martini glass. Float a lime wheel for garnish.
Watermelon Margarita
2.5 parts El Tesoro Platinum® Tequila
1/2-part DeKuyper® Triple Sec
2 parts Fresh Lime Juice
1 part Midori®
1 tsp. Superfine Sugar
Watermelon, cube and remove seeds
Ice
Mix liquid ingredients in blender. Add watermelon, sugar, and ice, and blend to desired consistency. Pour into frosted glasses, rimmed with sugar. Garnish with extra watermelon cubes.
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REMARKABLE RIMS
Rimming a glass with salt or sugar is really easy to do, but most people make the mistake of turning the glass upside down. Just follow these steps and make your next margarita or cocktail glass a work of art:
1. Wet the outside of the glass rim with a lime wedge. Try to keep an even depth around the entire circumference of the glass. The farther down you apply the juice, the wider your salt or sugar rim will be.
2. Apply the crystals. Fill a saucer or bowl with salt or sugar. Tilt your glass so the bottom is just above parallel to the saucer, and slowly spin the rim of the glass in the crystals.
3. Shake off the excess. Tap the glass over a sink to remove excess crystals and ensure a nice, even coat.
Wednesday, May 2, 2007
Wednesday, April 4, 2007
Greater Atlanta Tequila Tour, Part II
It’s been a while since I’ve written about my quest to find the greatest source of tequila in the Atlanta metropolitan area. Despite this, my search has continued. Scott mentioned a place near him where tequila takes up a whole isle of the store, several shelves high (or something like that). Unfortunately, I do not believe that exists here in Atlanta in one single place. My great city must be too far from the source for such a diverse selection of agave nectar to journey to a single store. However, collectively, the stores I’ve visited over the course of the tour here do seem to have at the very least a “very good” selection. Several of the stores have gone so far as to have Don Julio Real (even though I’m told it’s not worth the $350 pricetag), Herredura Selection Suprema (about $240), and, to a much lesser degree Asombroso Añejo (about $200). The only problem is that each of these stores are scattered about as far apart as possible without going outside Metro Atlanta! I fully realize that each store could probably order something for me if they didn’t have it, but I’m an instant-gratification type of guy. I don’t want to have to wait more than a few hours for something, especially tequila. I didn’t really count the miles I put on my Camry, but I know I burned about a third of a tank of gas and was gone for about four and a half hours My wife was having a ladies’ tea party during this time and as such kicked me out of the house. She actually suggested that I go find some new tequilas. So, without further adieu, my purchases since Part I of this report (not all were purchased on the tea party day)…
Gran Centenario Añejo – This is not the first time I’ve had this well revered tequila. The first bottle I purchased was back in 2005 a couple nights before my wedding, for the specific purpose of consumption by my groomsmen after the rehearsal dinner. I hadn’t planned to buy another bottle today, but one store I visited was selling it for $30, which is almost half of the price at which it is normally sold! So I decided to partake!
Much has been previously written by others regarding the quality of this product, so for the most part I won’t repeat it. I will say that I like how the flavor is so well balanced between the smoky flavors imparted by the oak barrels and the flavor of the agave itself. The flavor is strong, but manageable. This is definitely a tequila that I could drink all night (well, until I run out or pass out)! A great by the fire tequila.
Gran Centenario Reposado – This was also somewhat of a last minute decision. Since I struck gold with the GCA, I decided that it would be fun to have this one so I could compare them. I find that the flavor is very similar to the GCA, however the smoky/oaky/woodsy flavor is much less prevalent. It is much more crisp. Seems like it’s got a similar “base” flavor, but less of a flavor imparted by the barrels (I guess that makes perfect sense, seeing as this spent much less time in the barrel- I’m a genius!). This is a tequila that I would recommend to the budding connoisseur. It doesn’t have the over powering flavor (or price) of some añejos, however it’s got enough to wet your whistle. Seems like a great tequila to drink while sitting outside in the sun at the beach or watching birds.
Don Julio Reposado – I’ve had a few glasses of this since I bought it, and every time, when I swirl and sniff the tequila in the glass, it makes my nose burn. This was a huge surprise to me as many have marked this as their favorite tequila. Despite those comments, I was a little nervous. I would like to simply say that my apprehension went down my throat with the DJR! When I taste or smell it, the first thing that comes to mind is fresh squeezed apple juice. Or perhaps a little bit like a nice refreshing iced tea. In any case it has a very different smell than the GCR. To continue the fruit theme, I would attribute the GCR more to pears than apples. Nothing against pears, however I would rank the DJR a notch above the GCR. All in all DJR is another good option for someone who is just getting into tequila.
El Tesoro Paraiso – Another one that is on the list of “exotic” tequilas. My wife better be happy that I’m into exotic tequilas and not exotic cars! It was not my specific mission today to find a bottle of this (as was the Part I of the tequila tour when I was out to find some 1942). I visited five new stores, and only found it at the fourth one. I was intrigued by others comments about it, as well as the cognac connection (although I don’t really drink cognac). My hand numbered bottle is number 23,707. It has a very interesting color. It seems cloudy, although you can see right through it. Amongst its golden hue is a tinge of purple or deep amber.
I served myself up a healthy portion, and prepared myself for paradise…………Hmmm…………the tequila utopia that I was anticipating never showed up. It was much rougher and not nearly as flavorful as I was hoping. I went through a couple glasses, but remained a little down that such an expensive tequila was not going to live up to its expectation.
Well folks, that was yesterday. Today, I opened the bottle and was greeted with something with great mystery. Today I smelled hot cinnamon candies (red hots) and ginger. And marshmallows. Today I definitely detected the magical cognac influence upon the tequila. The first thought that came to my mind after sipping today (which happened literally seconds ago) was a nice, fresh, juicy, warm country ham. As silly as that sounds, I’m serious. There are definite fireworks here. 1942 is very mellow and relaxing. This tequila is very exciting. It makes me want to party!
El Tesoro Platinum – I like to keep a couple of blancos in the house to use in my top shelf margaritas. These consist of tequila, triple sec, and limejuice. Absolutely NO mix. I love the fresh, raw taste that great blancos have, along with their very pleasant bite! They are very invigorating on a Friday after I get home from work. Occasionally I’ll sip them, but when I want to sip something I am usually in a relaxed mood, and while enjoyable, blancos don’t relax.
El Tesoro Platinum is no different. It has a very clean flavor, yet it appears to have a slight coloration from something (in the flavor, not the physical color of the liquid). I don’t buy blancos that often, so I don’t have as much of a basis for comparison as I do reposados or añejos. However, this does appear to be a winner. Smooth and sippable, yet raw and unforgiving.
Chinaco Blanco – This bottle is hand numbered too. It’s obviously been around for a while as the ballpoint pen ink has nearly faded. It has a bit of a permanent marker or metallic essence to it. While this is a definite negative, it’s not so strong that the tequila is undrinkable. I don’t know that I’d go around sipping this one, but it makes great crisp margaritas. Would I buy it again? Probably. Would it be my first choice? Probably not.
Chinaco Añejo – Again, a hand numbered bottle. I have been searching for this one for quite some time. Many talk about how great it is, but I could only locate its baby brother. I had it in a restaurant, but failed to ask if anyone knew where to get it. Today, I found it on the shelves of three of the five stores I visited. This is probably my favorite in the “About $50 a bottle” category. It has a very hot flavor. Not hot like cinnamon (or red hots), but it makes me feel hot and fuzzy. I smell a little bit of roasted almonds or maybe walnuts, along with some cinnamon. This is a tequila that would be great after a nice juicy new york strip steak, or maybe some arrachera.
Cazadores Añejo – I’m not sure that I have too much to say on this one. It’s a definite winner in that it’s very good, and relatively speaking (in comparison to the others in this report) is inexpensive. I guess I could say that it’s got great bang-for-the-buck. But on the other hand there’s nothing that blows me away about it. Nothing that stands out in my mind that makes this tequila stand out from the others. It’s another one that I would put in to the “lighter” category. A great tequila for sipping on a warm summer night.
Asombroso La Rosa – This was another case of a big disappointment initially followed by a positive second tasting. When I opened the bottle and poured my first glass, I imagined a warm hearty taste of Bordeaux-influenced tequila. Instead I was slapped in the face with something that seemed undrinkable. I finished the glass, hoping that it would come around, but it didn’t. About a week or so later I decided to give it a second chance. The firewater I experienced before seemed to have changed itself into something quite complex and intriguing. I could definitely taste the red-wine. This is a 3 month reposado, but due to the Bordeaux influence I think it’s got the flavor of an añejo. Apparently there’s a 6 or 7 month version too, but I’ve never seen it.
El Conquistador Añejo – This one seems to have a very bright, summery taste. Despite it being a thick añejo, it is still one I would enjoy while sitting out in the sun. Very refreshing. There is a definite sweetness to it, almost like a cream or cold milk. It’s also in a way cool hand-blown bottle. The glass is dark and loaded with air bubbles. The bottle is also not even or straight, as it rocks back and forth and the neck is crooked.
El Diamante Del Cielo Añejo – Along with its younger siblings, Cielo seems to be a newcomer to the tequila scene, at least in my neck of the woods. The bottle says, “Since 1855…,” so it’s probably been in production for some time, but simply unavailable as I don’t recall ever having seen it. In any case, it’s a very welcome addition to the line (and to my shelf)! When I sniff this one, I detect strawberries or maybe raspberries. Maybe a little bit of hazelnut and amaretto as well. Very little burn on the throat or tingling on the tongue. I definitely want to give the reposado and blanco a shot (in more than one sense)!
So that’s it for Part II of the Greater Atlanta Tequila Tour. Eleven tequilas. Dang! I'm suprised there aren't greenish blue spikes growing out of my head now. Don’t worry, there will be a Part III, and perhaps a Part IV. There are still many tequilas that I have seen that I want to try. I also want to begin focusing on some that don’t seem to get a lot of press here and on playa.info. I’m sure that some of them have received bad press for fitting reasons, however I’m sure there’s a hidden gem or two out there somewhere!
Gran Centenario Añejo – This is not the first time I’ve had this well revered tequila. The first bottle I purchased was back in 2005 a couple nights before my wedding, for the specific purpose of consumption by my groomsmen after the rehearsal dinner. I hadn’t planned to buy another bottle today, but one store I visited was selling it for $30, which is almost half of the price at which it is normally sold! So I decided to partake!
Much has been previously written by others regarding the quality of this product, so for the most part I won’t repeat it. I will say that I like how the flavor is so well balanced between the smoky flavors imparted by the oak barrels and the flavor of the agave itself. The flavor is strong, but manageable. This is definitely a tequila that I could drink all night (well, until I run out or pass out)! A great by the fire tequila.
Gran Centenario Reposado – This was also somewhat of a last minute decision. Since I struck gold with the GCA, I decided that it would be fun to have this one so I could compare them. I find that the flavor is very similar to the GCA, however the smoky/oaky/woodsy flavor is much less prevalent. It is much more crisp. Seems like it’s got a similar “base” flavor, but less of a flavor imparted by the barrels (I guess that makes perfect sense, seeing as this spent much less time in the barrel- I’m a genius!). This is a tequila that I would recommend to the budding connoisseur. It doesn’t have the over powering flavor (or price) of some añejos, however it’s got enough to wet your whistle. Seems like a great tequila to drink while sitting outside in the sun at the beach or watching birds.
Don Julio Reposado – I’ve had a few glasses of this since I bought it, and every time, when I swirl and sniff the tequila in the glass, it makes my nose burn. This was a huge surprise to me as many have marked this as their favorite tequila. Despite those comments, I was a little nervous. I would like to simply say that my apprehension went down my throat with the DJR! When I taste or smell it, the first thing that comes to mind is fresh squeezed apple juice. Or perhaps a little bit like a nice refreshing iced tea. In any case it has a very different smell than the GCR. To continue the fruit theme, I would attribute the GCR more to pears than apples. Nothing against pears, however I would rank the DJR a notch above the GCR. All in all DJR is another good option for someone who is just getting into tequila.
El Tesoro Paraiso – Another one that is on the list of “exotic” tequilas. My wife better be happy that I’m into exotic tequilas and not exotic cars! It was not my specific mission today to find a bottle of this (as was the Part I of the tequila tour when I was out to find some 1942). I visited five new stores, and only found it at the fourth one. I was intrigued by others comments about it, as well as the cognac connection (although I don’t really drink cognac). My hand numbered bottle is number 23,707. It has a very interesting color. It seems cloudy, although you can see right through it. Amongst its golden hue is a tinge of purple or deep amber.
I served myself up a healthy portion, and prepared myself for paradise…………Hmmm…………the tequila utopia that I was anticipating never showed up. It was much rougher and not nearly as flavorful as I was hoping. I went through a couple glasses, but remained a little down that such an expensive tequila was not going to live up to its expectation.
Well folks, that was yesterday. Today, I opened the bottle and was greeted with something with great mystery. Today I smelled hot cinnamon candies (red hots) and ginger. And marshmallows. Today I definitely detected the magical cognac influence upon the tequila. The first thought that came to my mind after sipping today (which happened literally seconds ago) was a nice, fresh, juicy, warm country ham. As silly as that sounds, I’m serious. There are definite fireworks here. 1942 is very mellow and relaxing. This tequila is very exciting. It makes me want to party!
El Tesoro Platinum – I like to keep a couple of blancos in the house to use in my top shelf margaritas. These consist of tequila, triple sec, and limejuice. Absolutely NO mix. I love the fresh, raw taste that great blancos have, along with their very pleasant bite! They are very invigorating on a Friday after I get home from work. Occasionally I’ll sip them, but when I want to sip something I am usually in a relaxed mood, and while enjoyable, blancos don’t relax.
El Tesoro Platinum is no different. It has a very clean flavor, yet it appears to have a slight coloration from something (in the flavor, not the physical color of the liquid). I don’t buy blancos that often, so I don’t have as much of a basis for comparison as I do reposados or añejos. However, this does appear to be a winner. Smooth and sippable, yet raw and unforgiving.
Chinaco Blanco – This bottle is hand numbered too. It’s obviously been around for a while as the ballpoint pen ink has nearly faded. It has a bit of a permanent marker or metallic essence to it. While this is a definite negative, it’s not so strong that the tequila is undrinkable. I don’t know that I’d go around sipping this one, but it makes great crisp margaritas. Would I buy it again? Probably. Would it be my first choice? Probably not.
Chinaco Añejo – Again, a hand numbered bottle. I have been searching for this one for quite some time. Many talk about how great it is, but I could only locate its baby brother. I had it in a restaurant, but failed to ask if anyone knew where to get it. Today, I found it on the shelves of three of the five stores I visited. This is probably my favorite in the “About $50 a bottle” category. It has a very hot flavor. Not hot like cinnamon (or red hots), but it makes me feel hot and fuzzy. I smell a little bit of roasted almonds or maybe walnuts, along with some cinnamon. This is a tequila that would be great after a nice juicy new york strip steak, or maybe some arrachera.
Cazadores Añejo – I’m not sure that I have too much to say on this one. It’s a definite winner in that it’s very good, and relatively speaking (in comparison to the others in this report) is inexpensive. I guess I could say that it’s got great bang-for-the-buck. But on the other hand there’s nothing that blows me away about it. Nothing that stands out in my mind that makes this tequila stand out from the others. It’s another one that I would put in to the “lighter” category. A great tequila for sipping on a warm summer night.
Asombroso La Rosa – This was another case of a big disappointment initially followed by a positive second tasting. When I opened the bottle and poured my first glass, I imagined a warm hearty taste of Bordeaux-influenced tequila. Instead I was slapped in the face with something that seemed undrinkable. I finished the glass, hoping that it would come around, but it didn’t. About a week or so later I decided to give it a second chance. The firewater I experienced before seemed to have changed itself into something quite complex and intriguing. I could definitely taste the red-wine. This is a 3 month reposado, but due to the Bordeaux influence I think it’s got the flavor of an añejo. Apparently there’s a 6 or 7 month version too, but I’ve never seen it.
El Conquistador Añejo – This one seems to have a very bright, summery taste. Despite it being a thick añejo, it is still one I would enjoy while sitting out in the sun. Very refreshing. There is a definite sweetness to it, almost like a cream or cold milk. It’s also in a way cool hand-blown bottle. The glass is dark and loaded with air bubbles. The bottle is also not even or straight, as it rocks back and forth and the neck is crooked.
El Diamante Del Cielo Añejo – Along with its younger siblings, Cielo seems to be a newcomer to the tequila scene, at least in my neck of the woods. The bottle says, “Since 1855…,” so it’s probably been in production for some time, but simply unavailable as I don’t recall ever having seen it. In any case, it’s a very welcome addition to the line (and to my shelf)! When I sniff this one, I detect strawberries or maybe raspberries. Maybe a little bit of hazelnut and amaretto as well. Very little burn on the throat or tingling on the tongue. I definitely want to give the reposado and blanco a shot (in more than one sense)!
So that’s it for Part II of the Greater Atlanta Tequila Tour. Eleven tequilas. Dang! I'm suprised there aren't greenish blue spikes growing out of my head now. Don’t worry, there will be a Part III, and perhaps a Part IV. There are still many tequilas that I have seen that I want to try. I also want to begin focusing on some that don’t seem to get a lot of press here and on playa.info. I’m sure that some of them have received bad press for fitting reasons, however I’m sure there’s a hidden gem or two out there somewhere!
Saturday, February 24, 2007
On an AGAVE quest!
Well we are stuck in Northern Virginia and on an Agave hunt. We have found the local
Va ABC state run juice store with a mild selection of our favorite juice. Don Julio Anejo, Cazadores Anejo & Repesado, El Tesoro Silver, Patron Anejo & Repesado, And the standard middle shelf stuff. I had one of our F.O.T.A. crew members hit the phones and start dialing for Agave.. Mac Daddy is wanting some Gran Centenario Anejo and he is not settling for anything else.. After numerous calls in a multi- state search he has found only two bottles of the highly sought after GCA..It appears he has located 2 bottles in a 50 mile radius...Bottle one that is the closest to us is a near 18.7 miles away. MD the mad man that he is even requested for them to put it in the Wine chiller for him until we get there!!! Now that is thinking ahead. Here is where the problem is. We are both Southern Boys and are many miles and temperature degrees away from home and do not know our way around these parts to well...We have to drive into Washington D.C. to acquire the coveted bottle that we seek..And we think we have come up with a very reliable solution. We are at a dealership where can somewhat pick any car to drive home in and have chosen a 2005 BMW 530i with yep you guessed it. Navigation. So at 6:01 pm this evening Mac Daddy will be plugging in the exact location of the juice store and I will be preparing to listen to some strange lady's recorded voice navigate me around our Nations Capitol in search for the GCA...We don't plan on killing the bottle tonight...but that plan sometimes fails!!! Stay tuned for the outcome of the Agave Quest in the Nations Capitol!!!
Va ABC state run juice store with a mild selection of our favorite juice. Don Julio Anejo, Cazadores Anejo & Repesado, El Tesoro Silver, Patron Anejo & Repesado, And the standard middle shelf stuff. I had one of our F.O.T.A. crew members hit the phones and start dialing for Agave.. Mac Daddy is wanting some Gran Centenario Anejo and he is not settling for anything else.. After numerous calls in a multi- state search he has found only two bottles of the highly sought after GCA..It appears he has located 2 bottles in a 50 mile radius...Bottle one that is the closest to us is a near 18.7 miles away. MD the mad man that he is even requested for them to put it in the Wine chiller for him until we get there!!! Now that is thinking ahead. Here is where the problem is. We are both Southern Boys and are many miles and temperature degrees away from home and do not know our way around these parts to well...We have to drive into Washington D.C. to acquire the coveted bottle that we seek..And we think we have come up with a very reliable solution. We are at a dealership where can somewhat pick any car to drive home in and have chosen a 2005 BMW 530i with yep you guessed it. Navigation. So at 6:01 pm this evening Mac Daddy will be plugging in the exact location of the juice store and I will be preparing to listen to some strange lady's recorded voice navigate me around our Nations Capitol in search for the GCA...We don't plan on killing the bottle tonight...but that plan sometimes fails!!! Stay tuned for the outcome of the Agave Quest in the Nations Capitol!!!
Thursday, February 15, 2007
Mrs. Masteqilapf knows me best
My wife rules! For Valentines Day, the national day of mixed emotions, she got me the best gift she could get any tequila lover- tequila! A bottle of Milagro Reposado. This is not the best tequila, but still a very strong performer in my opinion. I find that the Reposado, as well as its two counterparts, the Añjeo and the Blanco, offer quite a bit of bang-for-the buck. None of them are the smoothest, in fact there's a good bit of tingle on the tongue. However, the flavor is definitely there. Also, it's smooth enough, yet cheap enough that it would be a great bottle for a budding tequila aficionado. Good enough to give you an idea of what sipping is like, but not expensive to the point of it being a huge waste if it turns out not to be what was originally thought. Lighter flavor. I think I like the Añjeo better, but it has been a while since I have had that one or the Blanco. The Blanco has sort of the same story. Decent Blanco flavor without being a bottle of kerosene! See, Mils and I go way back. This brand was one of my first non-Cuervo purchases several years ago. Plus, the bottle is cool without being over the top. It's a multitone tone glass that goes from red thru orange to yellow. The Añjeo bottle used to be etched, but they've dumped that for standard paint. It used to be imported by a company here in Georgia, but now it's been switched to a company in New York. Two weekends ago at Toco Giant, I saw a bottle of both the Special Reserve Reposado and the Special Reserve Añjeo. These are the ones with the glass agave plant inside. There's a lot more risk involved here though, as the Reposado is about $75 and the Añjeo is about $95. Here's a way cool picture I yanked from their website, www.milagrotequila.com
This weekend I'm off on another tequila mission...in search of the best tequila shop in town. Hopefully I'll do better this time than last...
This weekend I'm off on another tequila mission...in search of the best tequila shop in town. Hopefully I'll do better this time than last...
Friday, February 9, 2007
FORUM
Hey guys...sorry about the Forum...we turned it on today to test run it but we need to make some changes, and upgrades.. It seems like it is going to be a great community!!!...it will be back up in a day or so so please stay tuned..I will make an announcement here when its ready to rumble!!!!
Thursday, February 8, 2007
Recipe for Tequila
RIO GRANDE RITA
Don't get me wrong, I love a good margarita...but after a long nite of the traditional lime based margarita and numerous shots of primo anejo, you can be blessed with a hard case of heartburn.....not so with the Rio Grande Rita.......plus, chicks tend to dig this cock tail...so here is the recipe, give it a try and let me know what you think.......and stay tuned for the infamous Sex in the Cenote recipe coming soon to the Fellowship of the Agave
start with a tall glass (12 oz. ???)
1. Pour in two full shots Cazadores reposado (yes, others will work, but not as well)
2. Add about 1/2 shot of Cointreau or Bauchant
3. Fill the glass 2/3 of the way full with orange juice (I like the pulpy stuff)
4. Top off the glass with Ruby red grapefruit juice
5. Add a slice of lime
6. Drink until gone
7. Repeat as needed
Don't get me wrong, I love a good margarita...but after a long nite of the traditional lime based margarita and numerous shots of primo anejo, you can be blessed with a hard case of heartburn.....not so with the Rio Grande Rita.......plus, chicks tend to dig this cock tail...so here is the recipe, give it a try and let me know what you think.......and stay tuned for the infamous Sex in the Cenote recipe coming soon to the Fellowship of the Agave
start with a tall glass (12 oz. ???)
1. Pour in two full shots Cazadores reposado (yes, others will work, but not as well)
2. Add about 1/2 shot of Cointreau or Bauchant
3. Fill the glass 2/3 of the way full with orange juice (I like the pulpy stuff)
4. Top off the glass with Ruby red grapefruit juice
5. Add a slice of lime
6. Drink until gone
7. Repeat as needed
Wednesday, February 7, 2007
Clase Azul Repesado
Clase Azul
Reposado Tequila in a Fine Ceramic Bottle
Reposado Tequila in a Fine Ceramic Bottle
The perfect marriage between the finest tequila and a beautiful hand-crafted, hand-painted Mexican fine ceramic bottle. Produced and bottled in Jalisco, from 100% agave (weber blue agave) and twice distilled. Aging for 8 months in fine oak barrels gives Clase Azul distinct, smooth flavors and aromos, as well as an excellent balance over the palate.
All of Clase Azul Talavera Bottles are hand painted and hand made which makes the unique.
Mr. Chauvet, a well traveled tequila enthusiast, stated that he first tried Clase Azul at the Feria
A few years ago I first got my first look at these fabulous, artisan vessels of Clase Azul on a visit to La Cofradía where the brand was origionally produced. It's now produced at Productos Finos de Agave. The Sole Importer, Tequilas Premium, Inc. is very proud of this popular 8 month reposado and it's recent awards and accolades; Gold Medals from the San Francisco World Spirits Competition and the Beverage Testing Institute of Chicago. As well Anthony Dias Blue gave us a 92 rating and featured us in the May issue of Pattersons. Check out the Importers impressive site for more information about Clase Azul and their other premium products. The site also has great details about the process of the Productos Finos de Agave factory.
This has come out as a sleeper Tequila and is winning fans all over the world!!
Tuesday, February 6, 2007
ALO at Solutions for Dreamers Festival
Brushfire Records’ ALO (Animal Liberation Orchestra) are gearing up to release their second full album through Brushfire this spring. They are also set up to perform at the Solutions for Dreamers Festival in Santa Barbara.Oniric Records and Simple Shoes are proud to announce the first annual Solutions for Dreamers Festival, an enviro-musical extravaganza on February 24, 2007 at the Arlington Theatre, to benefit Santa Barbara non-profit Heal the Ocean.
Michael Franti and Spearhead will headline the Festival. Supporting bands beginning at 5:30 p.m. are ALO (Animal Liberation Orchestra), Matthew McAvene, Culver City Dub Collective and Dyson Sphere.
The afternoon portion of Solutions for Dreamers Festival opens at 1 p.m. in the Arlington promenade, featuring a wide array of booths and exhibits that showcase Santa Barbara non-profit and eco-friendly businesses. This family-friendly event will be a media-rich experience that brings environmental businesses together with captivating music, and breathtaking interactive art. Santa Barbara favorite Matthew McAvene will immerse all festival goers in his unique, artistic underwater world. This mixed-media experience integrates intelligent music with video presentations and larger than life displays. The Festival aims to both educate and empower the audience to respect and care for the world we live in.
Regularly priced tickets for the February 24, 2007 event are $25.00, $40.00 & $55.00, and VIP packages, which include prime seating, merchandise gift bags, a special VIP reception area, as well as an artist Meet-and-Greet, are also available.
Monday, February 5, 2007
Day after Groundhog Day Tequila Tour - Figuring out 1942
As we all know, Señor Punxsutawney Phil did not see his shadow, indicating an early arrival of spring. What no one knows (and what you are about to discover), is that Friday night I polished off the last of our GCA and our Orgullo de Halisco Reposado. Whilst rapid-fire posting on the “The Smoothest Tequila” thread on playa.info, I discerned that both of these occurrences are reasons enough to celebrate (not that I needed a reason in the first place). I decided to make Saturday, February 3rd a tequila day! A day in which I would drink tequila, and find replacements for the aforementioned casualties. But maybe not in that order. The Orgullo was one we purchased on our honeymoon to PDC in 2005. It was fabulous. Well balanced, smooth, yet sweet. And cheering. It left big shoes to fill. Then there was the GCA. I knew in advance that there was only one thing that could possibly, adequately replace it (without getting another bottle of the same): Don Julio 1942.
Shortly after noon, I embarked on my journey. I knew exactly where to go to get 1942, but instead of hurrying there and then hurrying back, I decided to enter some uncharted territory to see if there was anything I was missing. A quick search online indicated that there was a potential goldmine of tequila about 30 minutes east of Atlanta. I found a couple more stores that looked promising and were conveniently located between this one and our house. The last two stops on the tour were my two fallbacks. The first of these is the Toco Giant in East Atlanta, the second is Greens Beverages in North Atlanta. These are two high volume stores upon which I can always depend to fill my habits of Belgian/German beer and, of course, tequila.
I’m glad I have the Toco Giant and Greens. The first three shops were not worth the effort (or gas). The first store wasn’t too bad, but nothing for which I’d travel that far again. The other two barely had a full shelf of the Cuervos, Montezumas, Pepe Lopez. Yuk!
Toco Giant is the only place I have found so far that carries the tequila “guns.” I’ve never bought one, so I can’t comment, but they always seem to have a bunch. In 2005 I briefly considered bringing one home from Playa. Then I decided that a gun-shaped bottle of tequila going through the X-ray machine at the Cancun Airport might look like a REAL gun going through the X-ray machine at the Cancun Airport, so I passed. Toco had both anejo and reposado versions of Milagro single barrels, Asombroso La Rosa and El Platino, a full compliment of Herraduras, Don Julios, Tres Generaciones, El Tesoros etc. After brief deliberation, I selected a bottle of El Conquistador Anjeo. I love the bottle. Obviously hand blown- full of bubbles and the bottom isn’t flat, so it can barely stand up.
At Greens, the tequila is right in the front as you walk in. Three shelves, each about 25 feet long. On the top shelf, the Milagros are on the left, then the Cazadores, Herraduras, Corazons, and Don Eduardos. The Patrons are in the middle, then the Don Julios, Corralejos, and finally, at the end Espolon. On the middle shelf toward the center, basically under the Don Julios, is the Sauza display. The Cuervo family, including the newer “flavored” tequilas are to the right. “Other stuff” is to the left and below.
After gazing at all the choices for about 15 minutes, checking my list against their stock, I did what I came to do. I walked over to the counter behind which they keep all the $300+ bottles of Hennessey, Courvoisier, and Johnnie Walker. Up on the top, almost at the far right, was my prize. To its right was Asombroso El Platino. To its left was Herradura Seleccion Suprema. To the left of the HSS was Don Julio Real. I was amazed to see the Real was $350 and the HSS was about $250. Wow. I know, I only live once, but who knows, maybe later. So without further ado, 3 hours, and $125 later, Don Julio 1942 bottle #0210914 was (still is) officially mine.
I returned home, and after taking the dog out for a potty break, began my tasting. I slowly opened the case, to reveal the place where the bottle should have been! I stood in shock. I know I’m absent minded but…ok this joke is dumb. The bottle was there, and it was beautiful. I grabbed one of my trusty Reidel stemless snifters, broke the plastic safety seal, and removed the cap. Then I upended the bottle with much anticipation as the straw colored liquid began to fill the glass.
[As I was trying to figure out in my head how to write this without making it I decided that if I did a review, I wasn’t going to make it one of those official sounding ones that talks about “such and such flavor on the nose” or “hints of this or that” or “effervesence” or “palete” or “finish.” With all due respect to the talented folks who write those kind of reviews, I think the can sound a little silly and sometimes uppity and pretentious, which I’m definitely not. For Christmas I received a page-a-day calendar featuring a different bottle of beer each day. It’s littered with reviews like that. Some are great and really talk about the good and bad of the beer in a meaningful way, others just make me laugh. Not to mention that we all know just how good 1942 is. Cue the free flowing thoughts…]
After a couple glasses I’m still at a loss in determining something to which I can liken the 1942. I noted a very strong scent of vanilla as I took a whiff before imbibing. The first thought that crossed my mind was, “how the hell have I been drinking tequila for so long without experiencing this. The second thought was “why the hell did I drink all that Cuervo in college?” This is the first tequila that I’ve consumed that has not left even a tingle on my tongue. And I held it in my mouth for a while to see if it was just time delayed. Nope. Now, I don’t mind some tingle as it often reminds me of the mystery that is tequila and the blue agave. The 1942 felt almost syrupy on its way down the hatch. It seemed to coat my throat and esophagus on the way down. I was intrigued by the way it stuck to the glass after returning it to its resting position. After but a single glass I was in heaven. So relaxed that I didn’t want to get up and do anything. The only other time I felt so relaxed was after having very very good white lighting with my uncle-in-law. It smelled like spring water and tasted like spring water, but it warmed me like a hot coal as it went down so I was certain that I hadn’t been duped.
I decided to make an evening of it and sample all of my tequilas. What an experience! The only thing I was able to decide that evening is that this whole “Figuring out 1942” thing may take some time. I’m going to suspend this for now, and add more to it as I work my way through the bottle. To be continued…
PS: My wife, Susan asked almost immediately how much my 1942 cost. I replied, “It doesn’t matter. You only live once, you know.”
Shortly after noon, I embarked on my journey. I knew exactly where to go to get 1942, but instead of hurrying there and then hurrying back, I decided to enter some uncharted territory to see if there was anything I was missing. A quick search online indicated that there was a potential goldmine of tequila about 30 minutes east of Atlanta. I found a couple more stores that looked promising and were conveniently located between this one and our house. The last two stops on the tour were my two fallbacks. The first of these is the Toco Giant in East Atlanta, the second is Greens Beverages in North Atlanta. These are two high volume stores upon which I can always depend to fill my habits of Belgian/German beer and, of course, tequila.
I’m glad I have the Toco Giant and Greens. The first three shops were not worth the effort (or gas). The first store wasn’t too bad, but nothing for which I’d travel that far again. The other two barely had a full shelf of the Cuervos, Montezumas, Pepe Lopez. Yuk!
Toco Giant is the only place I have found so far that carries the tequila “guns.” I’ve never bought one, so I can’t comment, but they always seem to have a bunch. In 2005 I briefly considered bringing one home from Playa. Then I decided that a gun-shaped bottle of tequila going through the X-ray machine at the Cancun Airport might look like a REAL gun going through the X-ray machine at the Cancun Airport, so I passed. Toco had both anejo and reposado versions of Milagro single barrels, Asombroso La Rosa and El Platino, a full compliment of Herraduras, Don Julios, Tres Generaciones, El Tesoros etc. After brief deliberation, I selected a bottle of El Conquistador Anjeo. I love the bottle. Obviously hand blown- full of bubbles and the bottom isn’t flat, so it can barely stand up.
At Greens, the tequila is right in the front as you walk in. Three shelves, each about 25 feet long. On the top shelf, the Milagros are on the left, then the Cazadores, Herraduras, Corazons, and Don Eduardos. The Patrons are in the middle, then the Don Julios, Corralejos, and finally, at the end Espolon. On the middle shelf toward the center, basically under the Don Julios, is the Sauza display. The Cuervo family, including the newer “flavored” tequilas are to the right. “Other stuff” is to the left and below.
After gazing at all the choices for about 15 minutes, checking my list against their stock, I did what I came to do. I walked over to the counter behind which they keep all the $300+ bottles of Hennessey, Courvoisier, and Johnnie Walker. Up on the top, almost at the far right, was my prize. To its right was Asombroso El Platino. To its left was Herradura Seleccion Suprema. To the left of the HSS was Don Julio Real. I was amazed to see the Real was $350 and the HSS was about $250. Wow. I know, I only live once, but who knows, maybe later. So without further ado, 3 hours, and $125 later, Don Julio 1942 bottle #0210914 was (still is) officially mine.
I returned home, and after taking the dog out for a potty break, began my tasting. I slowly opened the case, to reveal the place where the bottle should have been! I stood in shock. I know I’m absent minded but…ok this joke is dumb. The bottle was there, and it was beautiful. I grabbed one of my trusty Reidel stemless snifters, broke the plastic safety seal, and removed the cap. Then I upended the bottle with much anticipation as the straw colored liquid began to fill the glass.
[As I was trying to figure out in my head how to write this without making it I decided that if I did a review, I wasn’t going to make it one of those official sounding ones that talks about “such and such flavor on the nose” or “hints of this or that” or “effervesence” or “palete” or “finish.” With all due respect to the talented folks who write those kind of reviews, I think the can sound a little silly and sometimes uppity and pretentious, which I’m definitely not. For Christmas I received a page-a-day calendar featuring a different bottle of beer each day. It’s littered with reviews like that. Some are great and really talk about the good and bad of the beer in a meaningful way, others just make me laugh. Not to mention that we all know just how good 1942 is. Cue the free flowing thoughts…]
After a couple glasses I’m still at a loss in determining something to which I can liken the 1942. I noted a very strong scent of vanilla as I took a whiff before imbibing. The first thought that crossed my mind was, “how the hell have I been drinking tequila for so long without experiencing this. The second thought was “why the hell did I drink all that Cuervo in college?” This is the first tequila that I’ve consumed that has not left even a tingle on my tongue. And I held it in my mouth for a while to see if it was just time delayed. Nope. Now, I don’t mind some tingle as it often reminds me of the mystery that is tequila and the blue agave. The 1942 felt almost syrupy on its way down the hatch. It seemed to coat my throat and esophagus on the way down. I was intrigued by the way it stuck to the glass after returning it to its resting position. After but a single glass I was in heaven. So relaxed that I didn’t want to get up and do anything. The only other time I felt so relaxed was after having very very good white lighting with my uncle-in-law. It smelled like spring water and tasted like spring water, but it warmed me like a hot coal as it went down so I was certain that I hadn’t been duped.
I decided to make an evening of it and sample all of my tequilas. What an experience! The only thing I was able to decide that evening is that this whole “Figuring out 1942” thing may take some time. I’m going to suspend this for now, and add more to it as I work my way through the bottle. To be continued…
PS: My wife, Susan asked almost immediately how much my 1942 cost. I replied, “It doesn’t matter. You only live once, you know.”
The Story of Don Julio 1942
In 1942, Don Julio González founded his first distillery. Five years later, he started "La Primavera" distillery, which years later would become renowned for being the producer of one of the finest tequilas produced in Mexico.
Under the brilliant sunshine of Los Altos de Jalisco, Tequila Don Julio continues to cultivate agaves that require seven to ten years to reach maturity. Even today, the agave is slowly roasted in traditional masonry ovens to obtain a rich juice that is fermented using yeast cultivated in La Primavera and then double distilled.
As the knowledge and tradition have been combined in a tequila that honors the agave azul plant that is the only source of sugar for the production of 100% agave tequila. The distinctive long shape of the agave leaves has been the inspiration for the design of the bottle.
With this product, Tequila Don Julio celebrates the dedication of a legendary man and a commitment to the things most appreciated by him; the agave and the tequila of his country.
We invite you to share with Don Julio 1942 the lifetime achievement of a very special life. Un Hombre Legendario...Un Tequila Legendario.
Sunday, February 4, 2007
EDDIE VEDDER JOINS JACK JOHNSON AT THE
EDDIE VEDDER JOINS JACK JOHNSON AT THE
FOURTH ANNUAL KOKUA FESTIVAL
APRIL 21st- 22nd • WAIKIKI SHELL • OAHU
Honolulu, Hawaii – February 2, 2007 – Hawaii’s own, Grammy-nominated musician Jack Johnson is proud to host the Fourth Annual Kokua Festival on Earth Day weekend- April 21st and 22nd, 2007 at the Waikiki Shell in Honolulu, Hawaii.
The festival’s incredible music line-up includes Jack Johnson, Eddie Vedder and Boom Gaspar of Pearl Jam, young troubadour Matt Costa, and local Island favorites: Ernie Cruz Jr., and the Girlas.
All proceeds go to the Kokua Hawaii Foundation, a non-profit organization founded by Jack and Kim Johnson to support environmental education programs in Hawaii. The funds raised from the Kokua Festival will be used to further support school recycling on Oahu, sponsor field trips and curriculum, and develop the new farm-to-school program ‘AINA in Schools.
In addition to the eclectic mix of live music, the Kokua Festival’s Kokua Village lets fans experience eco-friendly clothing from Patagonia, sustainable shoes from Simple Shoes, and organic yogurt from Stonyfield Farm. Many other local food and beverages, products and services from green companies, alternative energy demonstrations, interactive games and crafts for the kids, and information from environmentally active groups from around the islands will also be featured.
The Kokua Festival aspires to reduce its environmental impact by offsetting the festival’s emissions, running generators and festival vehicles on bio-diesel, recycling, using biodegradable concession ware, and offering eco-friendly merchandise including reusable totes, bottles, and organic cotton clothing. Fans are encouraged to make an “Earth Day Resolution” to reduce their environmental impact leading up to the festival and throughout the year.
As the first MySpace LIVE event of 2007, the MySpace LIVE at The Kokua Festival will broadcast the concert for viewers as well as feature behind-the-scenes MySpace Video footage and interviews with Jack and Friends. MySpace will be developing additional unique offerings in celebration of the Kokua Festival and Earth Day. Visit www.myspace.com/kokuafestival the official MySpace online home of The Kokua Festival.
A one-hour special on the 2006 Kokua Festival will air on the National Geographic Channel in 50 countries starting April 1, 2007.
Tickets are $40 for general admission/lawn, $50 reserved seats, $125 in the seated pit area, and $20 general admission for children 3-12. Children under 3 are free.
Tickets will be available exclusively to Kokua Hawaii Foundation members starting February 6th. Go to www.kokuahawaiifoundation.org to become a member today!
Tickets to the general public will be available via Jack Johnson’s web site www.jackjohnsonmusic.com on February 10th, via Myspace
www.myspace.com/kokuafestival on February 15th and at all Ticketmaster outlets, online at www.ticketmaster.com or by phone at (877) 750-4400 starting February 17th.
The Kokua Hawaii Foundation thanks Patagonia, Simple, Stonyfield Farm, and many other like-minded companies and organizations for their support! The Kokua Festival is produced locally by Pau Hana Productions with additional coordination by MusicMatters.
For more information please visit www.kokuafestival.com.
Saturday, February 3, 2007
Turned On to GCA!
There are many reasons, one I am a card carrying member of the Cuban Communista Party. two: Pancho Villa is one of my all time "Hero's" and three: I run my life of the premise "What would Che do?" as well as being a member of the infamous "tres hombres".
I will admit readily, I am no connisseur, per sey, but I know what I like and that is GCA. Gran Centinario Anejo. "Nector of the Gods" There may not be a "finer" product on the Mexican market. I was turned on by another dude while South of the Border. A fellow politico, or, if you like, sympathizer to the cause. Cost vs. shear pleasure?? I dont think so..Its a winner...nice over ice too.... please let me know what other tequila to try.......
I will admit readily, I am no connisseur, per sey, but I know what I like and that is GCA. Gran Centinario Anejo. "Nector of the Gods" There may not be a "finer" product on the Mexican market. I was turned on by another dude while South of the Border. A fellow politico, or, if you like, sympathizer to the cause. Cost vs. shear pleasure?? I dont think so..Its a winner...nice over ice too.... please let me know what other tequila to try.......
Border Crossing Mix
Border Crossing
Ingredients:
1 1/2 oz Tequila
2 tsp Lime juice
1 tsp Lemon juice
4 oz Coca-Cola
1 Lime wedge
Mixing instructions:
Pour the tequila, lime juice, lemon juice, and cola into a highball glass almost filled with ice cubes. Stir well and garnish with the lime wedge.
Ingredients:
1 1/2 oz Tequila
2 tsp Lime juice
1 tsp Lemon juice
4 oz Coca-Cola
1 Lime wedge
Mixing instructions:
Pour the tequila, lime juice, lemon juice, and cola into a highball glass almost filled with ice cubes. Stir well and garnish with the lime wedge.
About El Tesoro Tequila
About El Tesoro Tequila
In Spanish, El Tesoro means "the treasure." To my grandfather, Don Felipe Camarena, it meant helping people to discover the true tequila experience. And while the landscape has changed a bit in the last 60 years, my family's commitment to bringing you the treasure of El Tesoro de Don Felipe® has not. Made from 100% blue agave grown right here in the mountains of Jalisco, Mexico, it is the last handcrafted tequila on Earth. Find out why many have called El Tesoro "the world's best-tasting tequila" by experiencing it yourself.
El Tesoro Paradiso TequilaIrresistible and deliciously smooth. Literally a "paradise" created by Don Felipe Camarena and Alain Royer of A. de Fussigny Cognac, this unique, handcrafted blend of 100% blue agave tequilas takes on a remarkable elegance from its distinct, Cognac-barrel aging process.
And A great Margarita Mix!!!!!
Jimmy’s 21st Century Margarita
- 2 parts El Tesoro Paradiso™ Tequila
- ¾ part Grand Marnier 100 Year
- ¼ part Del Maguey Tobala Mezcal
- 3 parts Freshies® Fresh Lime Margarita Mix (blend of lime, lemon and orange juice with an agave-based syrup)
F.O.T.A. the story
Okay folks...a little background is needed...F.O.T.A. or "Fellowship Of the Agave" was created for the sole purpose of talking Tequila...Flash made a magazine cover for Scott and one of the captions was based off of the Lord of the Rings "Fellowship of the Rings" movie...Scott being the expert on Tequila that he is caused Flash to change the title to represent Agave...I took that and told Scott one night while we were drinking a bottle of GCA that we needed our own Fellowship and that's where we are now...We all love the sweet Agave nectar and We thought this would be a great way to build a Tequila loving community. We have invited many experts to come and contribute to the blog...so tune in often to see the latest postings of the Aficionados !!!
Friday, February 2, 2007
267 Pepper Tequila Infusion
"At a resort in Costa Rica, the bartender was making these amazing drinks with fresh fruit – mangos, limes, oranges. It was so incredible to watch him crushing the ice, squeezing this, muddling that. What he handed us was a gift. We were in this beautiful, exotic place; our kids and dearest friends all around us. It was the most wonderful experience. We thought, 'If only we could bottle this ... ' And that's what we decided to do." -Stacie Parker Shonfeld, Founder, 267 Infusions
This was a big hit a the Regatta party ......brings a sweat to the brow and still nice and smooth
playa.info "Peeps" invited to Post
We are now inviting "Peeps" from playa. info to Post..We are also looking for "peeps" who would like to contribute as "Authors"...send me a Pm on playa.Info or post a comment!
The Legacy of Cazadores Tequila!!!!
n 1922, Jose Maria Bañuelos was a typical campesino from the Jalisco mountain country. He started his day's work on his farm before dawn and made every minute of the day count. Sundays were holidays, when family and friends celebrated with typical meals and ranchero music.
While his family slept, Jose Maria would gaze out the window of his small adobe brick farm to admire the majestic leaves of his blue agaves reflecting the moonlight in the clear Arandas night. He loved to watch the shadows of the deer as they ran timidly through his well-tended agave fields. Jose Maria was deeply impressed by the agility and pride he saw reflected in their movements. So much so, that he allowed wild birds to be hunted on his fields, but never the proud deer.
At that time, the agave plant was used for preparing pulque, which was consumed at local cantinas. It was a strong and treacherous drink, that made its impact felt the following day.
Jose Maria was confident that he could make a high quality distilled liquor from with the blue agave plant, worthy of the beauty and majesty of the plant's enormous leaves and the bright red Arandas soil; the same red earth where he and his ancestors had toiled for generations.
Jose Maria dreamt of achieving his goal. He tried several ways of producing his new beverage, searching for ways to smoothen its taste. He worked alone at night, careful not to disturb his family, in a small room that he had specially outfitted with his liquor making equipment, to achieve his dream.
As the months, and then years, passed, Jose Maria patiently tested different ways of producing his beverage. He methodically analyzed the color and aroma from the fermented, distilled and aged agave juice until he finally settled on the "original" recipe for his refined tequila, the key to the future success of Cazadores Tequila.
Jose Maria hid his formula in a small wooden box inside the adobe walls of his farm. And in that box was a piece of paper with the handwritten words:
"Don Jose Maria: The knowledge that has been derived from all of these months of work."
He spoke with his son, Leon Bañuelos, and made him promise that he would not open the box until he had made the irrevocable decision to put into practice all the truths written on the piece of paper it contained. If he were unable to do this, he was to pass the secret on to his own son until Jose Maria's dream could be realized. For Jose Maria, it was of the utmost importance that this invaluable secret remain in the family, and that the knowledge he had gained be preserved through the generations.
Leon never forgot his father's words. They remained etched in his memory. He learned several different trades so that he could carry out his father's work, enthralled by the memory of what Jose Maria had said to him. He knew that one day the dream would come true.
One rainy afternoon, when the entire family was gathered around the dinner table, it came to Leon that his son Felix, a strong and vigorous boy, might be the one who could turn his father's dream into a reality.
Felix continued the family traditions of loving and working the land, perseverance in one's daily chores, and honesty with oneself as well as with others. He applied his values, and his grandfather's formula, to the production of tequila. A tequila that, through his perseverance and honesty, would become one of the finest quality tequilas made in Mexico.
At first, Don Felix practiced and perfected his skill in tequila making, and for some years his tequila was produced for private consumption only. The tequila was served at family gatherings and banquets, where only the guests of his hacienda were able to enjoy it. The wide acceptance of his product led him to establish a tequila distillery in 1973, in Arandas, Jalisco, with the aim of distributing his tequila throughout Mexico, and later around the world.
In honor of the deer that his grandfather, Jose Maria, admired, Don Felix used a deer logo on his label. In his mind, the deer symbolized valor, boldness, perseverance and pride, all values he held close to his heart. To signify man's pursuit of his dreams, he chose the name Cazadores, Spanish for hunters, to identify his product.
As the saying goes, the rest is history. Cazadores, thanks to the determination and honesty of Don Felix and his eldest son Leon Bañuelos, began to grow rapidly in Mexico, and later the United States. By 1999, production had soared to over 1,000,000 9L cases in Mexico and the US.
However, by 2000, the agave shortage had driven up the cost of the precious raw material almost 2,000%. Don Felix had a difficult decision to make; Should he reduce his product's agave content to keep costs and prices in line? Or should he maintain the high quality standards of Cazadores by adhering to his goal of producing only high quality, 100% agave tequila? Don Felix was a firm believer in quality, but more importantly he believed in honesty. He could not bear the thought of his loyal consumers feeling betrayed by a drop in quality. Don Felix, therefore, chose to maintain the quality of his product and decided to pass the resulting cost increases on to the consumer, even if sales volume and profitability were lost.
In 2002, Don Felix's dream was complete. He was the founder of one of Mexico's most respected tequila distilleries, and owner of the world's fifth highest selling tequila brand in the world.
Thursday, January 4, 2007
Agave (Linnaeus 1753) ( Gr. agauos = of kings and heros, illustrious, hence noble )
Over 300 species of Agave have been described, but only about 200 are currently recognised. Most species are monocarpic, although a few can flower several times during their life. The flowers are "perfect" with both male and female parts. Many species of Agave are bat pollinated and produce musky perfumes as attractants. Others produce sweeter odours to attract insects.
Most Agaves consist of rosettes of thick, hard, rigid leaves often with marginal teeth and usually with a lethally sharp terminal spine. Prolific vegetative growth and offsetting at the base of the plant or through stolons, usually maintains a clump of plants thus compensating for loss of flowering rosettes. A few species remain solitary, relying on seed production for survival of the species.
The interior of the leaves contains longitudinal fibres representing the vascular system. Agave leaf fibre was used by native Americans. Agave fibre from a range of species is of commercial importance, with the best quality fibre coming from the youngest leaves. Sisal (hemp) made from cultivated Agave sisalana is used to make clothing and rugs.
Carbohydrates stored in the core of several species of Agave were fermented by native Americans to make a beverage called pulque which was used in religious ceremonies. Distillation of a similar ferment made from the developing Agave flower bud is the basis for modern production of Mescal. Only if made from the Blue Agave within the Tequila region of Mexico can the distillate be called Tequilla.
Over 300 species of Agave have been described, but only about 200 are currently recognised. Most species are monocarpic, although a few can flower several times during their life. The flowers are "perfect" with both male and female parts. Many species of Agave are bat pollinated and produce musky perfumes as attractants. Others produce sweeter odours to attract insects.
Most Agaves consist of rosettes of thick, hard, rigid leaves often with marginal teeth and usually with a lethally sharp terminal spine. Prolific vegetative growth and offsetting at the base of the plant or through stolons, usually maintains a clump of plants thus compensating for loss of flowering rosettes. A few species remain solitary, relying on seed production for survival of the species.
The interior of the leaves contains longitudinal fibres representing the vascular system. Agave leaf fibre was used by native Americans. Agave fibre from a range of species is of commercial importance, with the best quality fibre coming from the youngest leaves. Sisal (hemp) made from cultivated Agave sisalana is used to make clothing and rugs.
Carbohydrates stored in the core of several species of Agave were fermented by native Americans to make a beverage called pulque which was used in religious ceremonies. Distillation of a similar ferment made from the developing Agave flower bud is the basis for modern production of Mescal. Only if made from the Blue Agave within the Tequila region of Mexico can the distillate be called Tequilla.
Wednesday, January 3, 2007
Gran Centenario Anejo- is made from 100% Blue Agave, aged for 18 months in toasted American oak barrels. It is light-bodied with mild Agave with toasted wood overtones. Gran Centenario Anejo can be enjoyed as a shot or over ice. Selection Suave is a process in which the Tequila Master selects only the smoothest, best quality aged Anejo tequilas, and blends them according to the process established by Lazaro Gallardo in 1857
Tequila Fest
Scott started an annual event called Tequila Fest it has now boomed into an all out Tequila Shooting showdown...There have been several of these events and a few injuries along the way. Big Dave....Please dont look at your feet!!!!
In 1983, Chinaco® was the first distillery to launch an ultra-premium tequila made of 100% agave, handcrafted, and packaged in unique, artisan bottles. Today, Chinaco® Tequila is still produced in limited quantities with the same standards and bottled in replicas of early hand-blown glass tequila decanters.
When a tequila of this quality became available outside of Mexico for the first time, it took US drinkers by storm and demand outpaced production with other distillers quickly following the lead of Chinaco®.
Agaves are succulent plants of a large botanical genus of the same name, belonging to the family Agavaceae. Chiefly Mexican, they occur also in the southern and western United States and in central and tropical South America. The plants have a large rosette of thick fleshy leaves generally ending in a sharp point and with a spiny margin; the stout stem is usually short, the leaves apparently springing from the root. Along with plants from the related genus Yucca, various Agave species are popular ornamental plants. Each rosette is monocarpic and grows slowly to flower only once. During flowering a tall stem or "mast" grows from the center of the leaf rosette and bears a large number of shortly tubular flowers. After development of fruit the original plant dies, but suckers are frequently produced from the base of the stem which become new plants.
Agave species are used as food plants by the larvae of some Lepidoptera species including Batrachedra striolata, which has been recorded on A shawii.
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