The Fascinating Story of Tequila Fortaleza
When considering a fine sipper of a tequila to purchase with unending options and limited funds for a single bottle, which do you opt for?
How about a bottle from the guy whose nickname was the Father of Tequila and who, in fact, coined the word "tequila"? Perhaps the family who pioneered steam-fired ovens for cooking agave, which is the main cooking method today? Or maybe the individual who pushed for using blue Weber agave for production, the best-of-the-best? Sign me up cause that sounds like a winner! Surprisingly, this all came from the same guy, Don Cenobio Sauza of the town of Tequila, Jalisco! Which tequila brand might we be discussing? Tequila Fortaleza. But even more surprising is that Fortaleza was in fact founded in 2005!
Wait, what? We know, we know. So let's get into the history of what happened there, how Tequila Fortaleza was founded, and as usual, get you the info you need to own a bottle.
The Fun History of Fortaleza
Tequila Fortaleza has deep roots in the town of Tequila, Jalisco, with a legacy that dates back to 1873 when Don Cenobio Sauza founded his first distillery, La Perseverancia. Don Cenobio was a visionary in the tequila industry, being the first to export "mezcal de tequila" to the United States, shortening the name to just Tequila, and pioneering the use of steam to cook the agave. His belief that Blue Agave was the best for production set the standard for quality that the family would uphold for generations. Following in his footsteps, his son Eladio took over the business in 1909, further establishing tequila as Mexico’s national drink during the Mexican Revolution and founding another distillery, La Constancia.
The family’s commitment to tequila continued with Don Eladio’s son, Francisco Javier, who played a crucial role in establishing the Denomination of Origin for Tequila, protecting the authenticity of the spirit. The legacy was carried forward by Don Javier’s grandson, Guillermo, who, after inheriting the family’s passion, restored the original distillery, La Fortaleza, in 1999. Today, Tequila Fortaleza is crafted using the same traditional methods as over a century ago, with a dedication to quality that honors the family's heritage. By preserving the artisanal processes, Guillermo and the Fortaleza team ensure that each bottle carries the legacy and spirit of their ancestors, making Tequila Fortaleza not just a drink, but a testament to a storied history.
How Fortaleza Blew Up in Popularity
Tequila Fortaleza’s rise to popularity is rooted in its commitment to tradition, quality, and authenticity. When Guillermo Sauza, the great-great-grandson of Don Cenobio, decided to revive the family’s old distillery in 1999, he chose to maintain the artisanal methods that had been used over a century ago. This decision to focus on traditional production methods—using a small brick oven, a tahona to crush the agave, wood fermentation vats, and copper pot stills—set Fortaleza apart in an industry increasingly dominated by mass production. The authenticity and craftsmanship behind each bottle resonated with tequila enthusiasts who were seeking a product that stayed true to its roots.
Moreover, Tequila Fortaleza's popularity was fueled by its emphasis on storytelling and its connection to the history of tequila itself. Guillermo Sauza’s dedication to preserving his family’s legacy and his passion for the craft drew the attention of both connoisseurs and casual drinkers. The brand’s narrative of heritage, combined with the high quality and distinct flavor profile of its tequilas, attracted a loyal following. As word spread through word-of-mouth, social media, and favorable reviews from industry experts, Fortaleza gained a reputation as one of the finest tequilas available, appealing to those who value tradition and excellence in their spirits.
The Releases of Tequila Fortaleza
The fine lineup of the Blanco, Blanco Still Strength, Reposado, and Añejo are the core range of Tequila Fortaleza. All can be difficult to find due to the high demand and limited production. Keep in mind that Fortaleza is a family business using traditional methods. Even more rare are the annual Winter Blend releases. Good luck getting your hands on any of those.
But thankfully here at Sip Whiskey we have just restocked our supply of the affordable and amazing Tequila Fortaleza Blanco!
The official tasting notes reveal the following:
"Aromas of citrus, and rich cooked agave fill your nose in this unique and very special blanco tequila. Also present: butter, olive, earth, black pepper, and a deep inviting vegetal complexity.
Flavors include citrus, cooked agave, vanilla, basil, olive, and lime. The finish is long and deep, complex yet easy to drink.
Fortaleza Blanco is a true aficionado’s tequila."
These bottles will sell out fast, but keep checking out Tequila Fortaleza page for more releases and restocks in the future. In the meantime, sip on that Tequila Fortaleza Blanco while you can!