Fortaleza Tequila

Fortaleza Tequila is a premium tequila brand that is renowned for its traditional production methods and high-quality taste. Founded in 2005 by Guillermo Sauza, the great-great-grandson of Don Cenobio Sauza, Fortaleza Tequila has quickly become a leading name in the tequila world. In this article, we will explore the history, production process, and characteristics of Fortaleza Tequila.

History

The history of Fortaleza Tequila is steeped in tradition. G4 Tequila, one of the oldest families in the tequila industry, began producing tequila in the early 1900s. Their tequila quickly became a favorite among tequila lovers around the world. However, in the 1970s, the family sold their company to a multinational corporation, and the tradition was lost. Years later, Guillermo Sauza decided to revive the family’s traditional methods and create a tequila brand that honored their legacy. This marked the start of Fortaleza Tequila in 2005.

Production

Fortaleza Tequila is made using traditional methods that have been passed down from generation to generation. It is produced using 100% Blue Agave grown in the highlands of Jalisco, Mexico. The agave plants are tended for up to ten years to ensure a high-quality yield. Once the agave plants are matured, the piñas are harvested, the core of the plant that is used to create the tequila.

Next, the piñas are roasted, crushed and the resulting juice is fermented in wooden vats using only natural yeasts for a minimum of three days. This helps to create a distinctive flavor profile that is unique to Fortaleza Tequila. After fermentation, the liquid, also known as must, is distilled twice in small copper pot stills. This process is what sets Fortaleza apart from other tequilas, as it produces a clear, smooth spirit that is unadulterated by additives or flavors. Once distilled, Blanco, Reposado, and Añejo tequila rest in oak barrels to age.

Characteristics

Fortaleza Tequila has a unique flavor profile that sets it apart from other tequilas. It offers a delightful aroma that is reminiscent of roasted agave, hints of vanilla, and caramel. This is complemented by a sweet, fruity, and citrusy taste that has a smooth finish. The Blanco is unaged and offers a fresh taste with hints of pepper and citrus. The Reposado, aged between six and eight months in oak barrels, offers a smooth, rich, and buttery taste. Finally, the Añejo, aged for up to three years, offers a complex taste with hints of vanilla, toffee, and spice.

Fortaleza Reposado Tequila is a versatile spirit that can be enjoyed on its own, chilled, or on the rocks. It is also a popular ingredient in classic cocktails, such as the margarita. It is recommended to drink Fortaleza Tequila slowly and savor every sip to appreciate its quality and distinctive characteristics.

Exploring the Captivating World of Fortaleza Tequila: A Variety of Expressions to Savor

1. Fortaleza Blanco:
   Fortaleza Blanco is the flagship expression, epitomizing the purest form of tequila. This unaged spirit boasts vibrant flavors of agave, with hints of citrus and peppery notes. Its smooth texture and remarkably clean finish make it ideal for sipping or as a versatile base for cocktails.
2. Fortaleza Reposado:
   Aged for approximately 6-9 months in oak barrels, Fortaleza Reposado develops a delightful complexity. This tequila is infused with flavors of caramel, butterscotch, and vanilla, while still maintaining the agave essence. It offers a harmonious balance of oak and agave notes that will please even the most discerning palates.
3. Fortaleza Añejo:
   For those seeking a refined sipping experience, Fortaleza Añejo delivers. Crafted with utmost care, this tequila spends up to three years in oak barrels, resulting in an exquisite fusion of caramel, chocolate, and vanilla. Delicately incorporating the wood’s influence, it presents a smooth, full-bodied character with a long, luxurious finish.
4. Fortaleza Still Strength:
   Fortaleza Still Strength tequila is a rare gem, capturing the true spirit of artisanal craftsmanship. Bottled at cask strength, this expression retains all the intense flavors and earthy agave profile. With its higher alcohol content, it showcases the purest form of Fortaleza’s tequila, providing an invigorating experience for tequila enthusiasts looking for a bolder taste.