HOW IS TEQUILA MADE?

2 SHREDDING THE AGAVE

By shredding the agave piña (fruit/succulent core) through three separate shredding processes, the agave fibers are prepared for sugar extraction.

3 EXTRACTION

A diffuser extracts the sugar within the shredded agave fibers using a gentle extraction process, producing a solution of water and agave sugar. Agave juice can then be obtained from this solution, as can bagasse, which is later used as compost for the agave plantations.

4 COOKING

Agave contains complex sugars, like inulin, that must be transformed into fermentable sugars through a hydrolysis process. The hydrolysis process takes about 6 hours to convert inulin into fructose and glucose.

5 FERMENTATION

Anaerobic fermentation is carried out in stainless steel tanks using a proprietary blend of yeasts and nutrients. Each round ferments for 24-28 hours with varying temperatures, from 32°C (89.6°F) to 37°C (98.6°F). Sauza’s fermentation process is fast and clean, because we use closed tanks and an automated cleaning process that guarantees a safe tequila product.

6 DISTILLATION

The first distillation process takes place in steel distillation columns, during which water is removed and alcohol is concentrated from fermented agave juice. The second distillation takes place in stills to obtain tequila with a range of 55-65% alcohol, depending on the brand. All of the distillation by-products are treated in a wastewater treatment plant, in full compliance with environmental regulations.

7 FILTRATION

Every tequila is filtered using slightly different methods. We use carbon filters, through which tequila is filtered through in cold temperatures to remove the excess fatty compounds that give tequila a cloudy appearance. Other filtration processes assure that there are no particulates present in the liquid, and ultimately work to give our tequila a shiny finish.

8 AGING

“Reposado” tequila is aged in white oak wood containers for at least 2 months. Aged, or “añejo” tequilas are kept in white oak barrels for at least 12 months, and extra-aged tequilas are kept in white oak barrels for at least 36 months.

All of the containers and barrels are made from American white oak with a smoky finish, which complies with the Sauza’s standards, and are used only for aging processes.

9 BLENDING & ASSEMBLING

In this process, demineralized water is added to the tequila in order to adjust its gradation, and tests are conducted in order to assure consistency according to Sauza’s standards. All of our brands are non-GMO, gluten-free and Kosher certified.