Agave Sunrise: A Tequila Adventure
Over the past 6 days, I had the great privilege of enjoying an incredible YPO advanced tequila adventure in Jalisco, Mexico. It was an unforgettable experience that allowed us to explore the very best of the tequila industry. Even though I’ve had decades as an industry insider, brand owner and distributor, this trip led by industry expert and modern day renaissance man Joe Micallef, afforded me an unique perspective and opportunity to go deep with some of the most renowned distilleries and brands in the region, including among others San Matias Distillery, Don Julio, Clase Azul, Tequila Ocho, Cascahuin, Distilleria Orendain, Sauza, and Volcan.
At each stop, we learned about the unique processes and techniques used to create some of the world's finest tequilas. From highlands to lowlands, we explored the cultivation of agave plants, the art of distillation, and the subtle nuances of tequila tasting and blending. We sampled some of the most extraordinary aged tequilas and mezcal, learning about the different varieties and styles from experts in the field. I think I ate me fill of cooked agave for a lifetime. We even had a couple of blending contests where we got to compete as teams matching a finished product using various component parts. Fun times (oh and we are all keeping our day jobs - the master blenders have nothing to fear 😂 ).
Over the course of the trip, we visited both family-owned distilleries and global giants, learned about the history and culture of tequila, and even had the chance to taste and blend our own unique expressions. Along the way, we enjoyed the local cuisine, learned about the artistry and craftsmanship that goes into producing tequila, and gained further respect for this remarkable spirit. While there are countless celebrity brands in the space now, which I truly appreciate given their ability to reach more consumers and grow the industry, it is the people and craftsmanship that really strikes me as most important. With that in mind, I wrote this short poem as a tribute to the passionate people we met along our journey.
Agave Sunrise
Passion runs deep, a nation's pride,
Crafting art for the world to abide.
Five years to grow, to reach their prime,
Agave plants are worth the time.
Chopping and grinding, the Pina's core,
Releasing juice so sweet and pure.
Fermentation, distillation, the aging begins,
Craftsmanship and dedication, a world to win.
A bottle of beauty, art and design,
Telling a story, one sip at a time.
Oh Jalisco, how you shine,
Bringing forth your craft, to yours and mine.
The world drinks on, not knowing,
The souls of a nation, in each sip, showing.
Ambassadors for a people and land,
Tequila pours forth, crafted by hand
Perhaps best of all, I now have 11 dear friends who shared deeply and will be forever connected to me. It was an unforgettable experience that left us with memories, insights and friendships that will last a lifetime.
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