Collection: José Cuervo

Harvesting the agaves

The production of José Cuervo Tequila begins with the careful selection and harvesting of blue agaves, which are grown in the fields around the town of Tequila. These plants take around 7–10 years to fully mature and develop their full sweetness.

Traditional production methods

After harvesting, the agave hearts, also known as piñas, are cooked in traditional stone ovens to release their natural sugars. They are then crushed to extract the juice, which is subsequently fermented and distilled.

Maturation and ageing

José Cuervo tequila is aged in hand-selected oak barrels to refine its flavour. The duration of ageing varies depending on the type of tequila: Blanco tequilas are bottled immediately, whilst Reposado and Añejo tequilas are aged for several months to years.

José Cuervo Tradicional

José Cuervo Tradicional is the brand’s classic. Made from 100% blue agave, this tequila offers an authentic and unadulterated flavour. It is available in Blanco and Reposado varieties and is suitable for both drinking neat and in cocktails.

José Cuervo Especial

José Cuervo Especial is another popular tequila from the brand. It is available as Gold and Silver and is characterised by its smooth and mild flavour. This tequila is perfect for margarita cocktails and other mixed drinks.

José Cuervo Reserva de la Familia

The Reserva de la Familia is the brand’s flagship product. This exclusive tequila is produced in limited editions only and is aged for at least three years in oak barrels. It offers a complex flavour profile with notes of vanilla, caramel and oak.

José Cuervo Platino

José Cuervo Platino is a premium tequila made from 100% blue agave and triple-distilled. This meticulous production method gives it exceptional purity and a refined flavour that delights connoisseurs.

The origins of José Cuervo

José Cuervo was founded in 1758 by Don José Antonio de Cuervo in the town of Tequila, in the state of Jalisco, Mexico. He was the first to receive a licence from the Spanish Crown to produce tequila, thereby laying the foundations for a centuries-old tradition.

Development and Growth

Over the years, José Cuervo has continued to evolve and grow. In the 19th century, Don José Cuervo Labastida, a descendant of the founder, took over the management of the company and introduced modern production methods that further improved the quality and flavour of the tequila.

Innovations and Milestones

José Cuervo has introduced numerous innovations in tequila production. In 1880, the world’s first ‘Reposado’ tequila was produced by José Cuervo. This special ageing technique set new standards in the industry. Later, in the 1970s, José Cuervo became the first tequila producer to launch a 100% agave tequila, further cementing the brand’s reputation.

Global expansion

Today, José Cuervo is a globally recognised brand and exports its tequila to over 90 countries. The brand has managed to preserve its Mexican roots whilst gaining a global following.