Tequila Cabeza is made in the town of Arandas, the highlands of Jalisco, by the Vivanco family, who have been growing agave on their estate for five generations. The product is a partnership with The 86 Co, a United States based spirits company. Simon Ford, the founder of The 86 Co., sheds some light on what makes Tequila Cabeza special in an ever rising sea of craft tequila.

For starters, the way they grow their agaves is unique within the big picture of tequila producers, allowing the central flowering stalk, or quixote, to grow. “This method of farming is good for the bats that pollinate the agave plants. Much of the agave being farmed today doesn’t allow for the quixotes to grow which has endangered the bat population of the area,” explains Ford.  

The attention to detail continues through the fermentation process, which is a winter fermentation. “The cooler winter temperatures slows down the fermentation process” says Ford, “draw[ing] out as much flavor of the agave as possible.” This is just one of the techniques applied to the production of Tequila Cabeza to make it a rich full flavored tequila. “We also make sure our tequila rests for the full 60 days allowed for a blanco which allows the flavors to fully develop before bottling,” shares Ford. To cap it all off, it is bottled at 43% ABV, which adds to the full flavor and body of the bold spirit.

Ford feels strongly about sticking to traditional methods of tequila production, even though it comes at a cost:

“Tequila producers who are using natural farming techniques...or using other artisanal methods will never be able to able to compete on price with tequilas that cut corners in their production for scalability.”

As education and enthusiasm around traditional and thoughtfully crafted agave spirits is on the rise, Tequila Cabeza is well positioned. The proof is in the taste, awarded the Chairman’s Trophy and 97 Points. A bright and pungent nose is full of fresh grassy herbs, sea salt, lime zest and hints of ripe tropical fruit. Clean on the palate, it starts off soft and full flavored with earthy lime zest before turning to peppery serrano spice and finishing with a mellow fruitiness. Full and delicious.

Stay tuned for a limited release of Extra Anejo Tequila Cabeza coming later this year.