Who Makes Código Tequila? Unveiling the Distillery and Legacy
Código Tequila is produced at the Amatitán distillery in Jalisco, Mexico; however, it’s fundamentally a partnership between an experienced Mexican distilling family and a group of American entrepreneurs with a passion for quality tequila.
Background: The Story Behind the Bottle
Código 1530, often simply called Código Tequila, entered the premium tequila market with a unique proposition: authenticity. Unlike many brands that prioritize mass production and marketing, Código emphasized traditional distilling methods and a deep connection to the land and people of Jalisco, Mexico. This focus stems from the brand’s unusual origin, a story intertwined with friendship, passion, and a commitment to honoring tequila’s heritage. The brand’s story begins with a group of friends enjoying truly exceptional tequila, made by a small Amatitán distillery for personal consumption, identified only by the distilling code “1530”.
The Distilling Family: A Legacy of Excellence
At the heart of Código Tequila is a multi-generational distilling family that resides in Amatitán, a town revered for its tequila production. This family, intentionally kept somewhat anonymous to preserve the focus on the tequila itself, possesses decades of experience and a deep understanding of the agave plant and the distilling process. Their expertise is crucial in maintaining the high standards and traditional techniques that define Código. They’ve passed down knowledge of the nuances in agave maturation, fermentation, and distillation through generations.
The American Partnership: Bringing Código to the World
The American entrepreneurs behind Código Tequila recognized the exceptional quality of the tequila being produced in Amatitán. Impressed by the traditional methods and superior taste, they formed a partnership with the distilling family to bring this hidden gem to a wider audience. This partnership involved not only investment and marketing expertise but also a shared commitment to preserving the authenticity of the tequila-making process. They prioritized quality over quantity, ensuring that every bottle of Código met the highest standards.
Código’s Production Process: Honoring Tradition
Código’s production process is a testament to its commitment to tradition. From harvesting mature agave to aging the tequila in carefully selected French oak barrels, every step is meticulously executed to ensure exceptional quality and flavor.
- Agave Selection: Only fully mature Blue Weber agave, grown in the Amatitán region, are selected.
- Cooking: The agave piñas (hearts) are slow-cooked in traditional ovens to extract their sugars.
- Fermentation: The cooked agave is crushed, and the extracted juice is fermented using natural yeasts.
- Distillation: The fermented juice is double-distilled in stainless steel pot stills.
- Aging: The aged expressions of Código Tequila are aged in French oak barrels sourced from the Napa Valley region of California. The barrels impart subtle flavors that complement the tequila’s natural character.
The Different Expressions of Código Tequila
Código offers a range of tequila expressions, each with its unique character and flavor profile. These expressions vary based on aging and specific production techniques.
| Expression | Aging | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Blanco | Unaged | Clean, crisp, with notes of agave and citrus |
| Rosa | 1 month in French Oak | Floral with Vanilla and Caramel notes |
| Reposado | 6 months in French Oak | Smooth, vanilla, caramel, toasted oak |
| Añejo | 18 months in French Oak | Rich, complex, dried fruit, spice |
| Origen | 6 years in French Oak | Extremely rich, balanced with oak and fruit |
Código Tequila and Celebrity Ownership
While Código Tequila had partnerships with celebrities like George Strait, it’s important to note that these were endorsements and equity partnerships, not direct ownership of the production or distillery. The core production process and the distilling family remained the central figures in crafting the tequila. However, George Strait relinquished his role with the company in 2023.
Frequently Asked Questions About Código Tequila
Who owns the distillery where Código Tequila is made?
The distillery is owned and operated by a Mexican distilling family with generations of tequila-making experience. They maintain the traditional processes that define Código’s unique character.
Where is Código Tequila produced?
Código Tequila is produced in Amatitán, Jalisco, Mexico, a region renowned for its tequila-making heritage. The location is important because of the specific characteristics of the agave grown there.
What type of agave is used to make Código Tequila?
Código Tequila uses only 100% Blue Weber agave. This variety is considered the highest quality agave for tequila production and is protected by law.
Are any additives used in Código Tequila?
Código Tequila prides itself on using no additives. The tequila’s flavor comes solely from the agave, fermentation, distillation, and aging processes.
What makes Código Tequila different from other brands?
Código Tequila stands out due to its commitment to traditional methods, its focus on quality over quantity, and its deep connection to the distilling family in Amatitán. The absence of additives also contributes to its unique flavor profile.
How is the “Rosa” expression of Código Tequila made?
Código Rosa gets its pink hue and subtle flavor from being finished in uncharred French White Oak Cabernet Sauvignon barrels. This gives it a distinctly different character compared to traditionally aged tequilas.
What are the primary flavor notes found in Código Blanco?
Código Blanco showcases the pure flavors of the agave, with crisp, clean notes of fresh agave, citrus, and a hint of black pepper.
Where does Código source its oak barrels from?
The oak barrels used for aging Código Tequila are sourced from Napa Valley, California. These French oak barrels are meticulously selected to complement the tequila’s flavor profile.
How long is Código Añejo aged?
Código Añejo is aged for 18 months in French oak barrels. This extended aging process imparts rich, complex flavors of dried fruit, spice, and vanilla.
What is “Código 1530” the code for?
The “1530” in Código 1530 tequila refers to the distilling code used by the Amatitán distilling family for their personal reserve. It signifies the quality and authenticity of their tequila-making tradition.
Who previously had a celebrity partnership with Código Tequila?
Country music legend George Strait previously held an equity partnership with Código Tequila, but relinquished his role with the company in 2023.
Is Código Tequila kosher certified?
While not all expressions may be, some Código Tequila products are kosher certified. Check the specific bottle for kosher certification symbols.