Before we even get into the liquid, is this not the coolest bottle of tequila you’ve ever seen? Introducing Espolón, a 100% pure Blue Agave tequila from the San Nicolas Distillery in the highlands of Jalisco, a region well regarded as the ‘grand cru’ of agave growing.

Inspired by the Mexican icon of the fighting cock (“pelea de gallos”), Espolón is named for the spur on the hind leg of a cockerel, a symbol of strength, nobility and machismo. Each bottle is illustrated in the popular calavera (“skeleton”) caricature depicting brand protagonist Ramón the fighting rooster, influencing penultimate moments in the independence of Mexico.

Founded by the former president of Herradura, Ramon Valdes and Master Distiller Cirilo Oropeza, Espolón tequila is about a dedication to detail and quality from the field to the bottle. Once full maturity is reached, agave piña’s are harvested and cooked slowly in an autoclave for 20-22 hours instead of the industry standard of 12. Even distillation is controlled at a slower pace using 5.5 hours to fully distil a single batch instead of the more common 3.5. But it’s the fermentation process which really stands out with the use of rock music played for the apparent appeasement of the yeast. Simply explained by Snr. Oropenza, “Yeast sways to the rhythm of music”.

As bizarre as this may sound, it’s not completely an uncommon practice. French and Austrian wineries have been known to invest in musical sound waves to help control the temperament of their yeast. Even global tequila brand Cazadores utilises the power of melody to “inspire” fermentation, however it’s Mozart and not the Red Hot Chili Peppers which seems to be favoured by their yeast.

Currently only the blanco and reposado expressions are available outside of Mexico, although with over seven international spirit awards to their name, it hopefully won’t be long until brand owner Campari Group release the anejo and El Colorado – a fully matured ex bourbon barrel reposado. We live in expectation.

[Visit Brand Page: tequilaespolon.com]

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