Mexican heritage liquors are a true reflection of the country's rich cultural history and its people's passion for life. From tequila to mezcal, these spirits have captured the hearts of many around the world with their unique flavors and aromas. In this article, we will delve into the world of Mexican heritage liquors, exploring their origins, production methods, and what makes them so special.
The Origins of Tequila
Tequila is perhaps one of Mexico's most famous exports when it comes to liquor. Its story begins with the Aztecs who called it "pulque," a fermented drink made from agave plants. When Spanish conquistadors arrived in Mexico in 1521, they were introduced to pulque by local tribes. The Spanish brought back some agave plants to Spain but found that they could not replicate the same taste as pulque due to differences in soil conditions.
It wasn't until much later that tequila started gaining popularity worldwide. In 1873, Don Cenobio Sauza founded La Constancia Distillery which became one of Mexico's largest distilleries producing tequila under different brands such as Jose Cuervo.
From Agave Plantations to Bottles
Agave plants are crucial for making both tequila and mezcal. These cacti can grow up to 12 feet tall with spiky leaves that protect them from predators like insects or animals trying to eat them out during night time while they sleep at daytime hours by curling up tight against each other forming an impenetrable shield over themselves before opening back up again once daylight fades away into darkness again after sunset each day until spring arrives bringing new growths on all sides except where roots begin growing down towards water table below ground level gradually over time passing through stages known as 'hiding' (during which plant remains dormant) followed by 'growing' stage where stems start pushing upwards towards sunlight once more becoming taller than ever before reaching maturity age about three years old then cut off just above ground level leaving behind only base part remaining buried deep within earth – this process takes place annually every year without fail since ancient times ago when first domesticated thousands upon thousands years ago already long past now though still continues today just like always has been doing since earliest beginnings way back when originally discovered!