In 1678, a Spanish politician named Francisco de Cuervo Valdes immigrated to Mexico, which was then a Spanish colony, and established an alcohol distillery. It was the first distillery in the colony, making Valdes the founder of the oldest tequila dynasty in Mexico and even Central America. Over the years, the ownership changed hands, with each new owner improving the natural product, which had by then accumulated several prestigious international medals. The U.S. Prohibition era actually benefited tequila, as smugglers brought it to the American market.
Today, the majority of the distillery’s ownership is held by the elderly Mexican billionaire Juan Francisco Beckman Vidal. His son, Juan Domingo, manages the operations and continues the tradition of the distillery, which began more than 300 years ago.
The distillery, located in the heart of Jalisco, is considered a gem in terms of its construction and production systems. The building, in a Spanish style from the period of the conquest in Central and South America, features high vaulted ceilings that begin at the entrance and extend throughout the space. It’s a kind of ancient Spanish style, perhaps even Moorish.
Tasting: Jose Cuervo Tradicional Reposado Tequila. The oldest distillery in Central and South America produces a unique and exquisite tequila, named after the founder’s family member. With an alcohol content of 38%, it is made from high-quality Weber blue agave and undergoes a short aging process of two months in oak barrels. A variety of flavors emerge during the tasting: roasted agave, vanilla, toasted honey, and oak from the barrel. It is recommended as a cocktail.
