What gives Suavecito Tequila its distinct flavor? Is it the meticulous aging process, the 2% agave nectar added to each batch, or the time-honored technique and unrelenting artisanship? While each of these elements plays a role in determining how Suavecito Tequila is crafted, it all starts from the ground up — literally.
A Tequila’s flavor profile is primarily determined by the soil where the agave is grown. This concept is known as terroir. Tequila terroir can influence everything from how sweet or smokey a tequila is to whether it tastes earthy or fruity. Continue reading as we look at how the soil can impact agave flavor, the difference between tequilas grown at different elevations, and how it all combines to give Suavecito Tequila that smooth flavor you know and love.
What is Tequila Terroir?
Terroir (pronounced “tehr-WAHR”) is a French term used in the wine industry to describe the distinct characteristics the soil and climate of a region impart on a wine’s flavor and composition. Terroir is often used as a shorthand that allows wine aficionados to generally describe a wine’s qualities, such as dry, minerally, or fruity.
The concept behind terroir is that wines grown in a particular region have specific characteristics that can’t be found anywhere else, even if the same winemaking techniques are used to create the wine. Terroir applies to:
- Soil. Clay, sand, volcanic, and granite soils all impart different characteristics, giving wines grown in regions with each type of soil specific qualities.
- Weather. Hot and dry climates produce drier wines, while wet and cool climates produce juicer, fruitier wines.
- Elevation. Fruit grown at elevation produces softer, sweeter wines due to the cooler climate, while fruit grown near sea level tends to make earthier wines.
- Slope. Fruit grown on steep slopes, such as mountainous regions, receive less moisture due to how quickly rainwater runs down the slope. This can give the wine a drier quality.
- Sunlight. The more sun exposure fruit receives, the less juice the grape produces, creating drier wines with higher tannin levels.
Much like wine enthusiasts rave about the importance of terroir, tequila aficionados also celebrate the unique impact of the environment on the flavor of agave. Just as the vineyards of Bordeaux or Napa Valley are famed for their distinctive soils and climates, the various regions of Jalisco each give tequila its own special twist.
How Terroir Changes a Tequila Flavor Profile
Agave from the highlands of Jalisco, where Suavecito is grown, takes on the characteristics of the mineral-rich soil and cooler temperatures. This cooler environment allows the agave to grow larger and develop a sweeter pina, infusing Suavecito Tequila with vibrant floral and fruity notes that feature prominently on the palate. The result? A tequila that’s not just a drink, but a bouquet of fine aromas and exquisite tastes, reflecting the elevated spirit of its highland roots.
Meanwhile, the agave grown in the lowlands features the characteristics of a starkly different terroir. Nestled in the warmer valleys, these plants thrive in darker, volcanic soils, creating a bolder, earthier flavor profile. Lowland tequila is robust and packed with herbaceous tones and a hint of spice—perfect for those who enjoy tequila with a strong agave punch and a whisper of the wild Mexican terrain.
This tale of two terroirs doesn’t just produce two different types of tequila; it crafts distinct experiences. Whether you lean towards the delicate, floral notes of a highland tequila or the bold, earthy essence of a lowland variety, understanding these origins enhances appreciation. It’s about connecting each sip back to the land and celebrating the diversity the earth imparts into every bottle.
A Story in Every Sip
As we’ve journeyed through the rolling highlands and lush lowlands of Jalisco, it’s clear that terroir isn’t just for wine—it’s a critical piece of the tequila tapestry. Each bottle of Suavecito Tequila captures the essence of its origin, offering not just a drink, but an exploration of heritage and flavor.
Whether you’re a tequila novice or a seasoned connoisseur, recognizing the influence of terroir can deeply enhance your tasting experience. Ready to explore the nuanced flavors shaped by the land? Explore the full range of Suavecito Tequila, available at Total Wine & More or wherever exceptional tequilas are sold.
