Origins
Lalo Tequila was founded by Eduardo "Lalo" González, a third-generation tequilero and grandson of the legendary Don Julio González. Don Julio revolutionized the tequila industry by prioritizing quality and craftsmanship, values that Lalo continues to honor in his brand.
Lalo started his venture as a tribute to his grandfather and to highlight the beauty of agave in its purest form. Initially producing private-label tequilas for an exclusive clientele, Lalo launched his brand to share a tequila representing simplicity, authenticity, and excellence.
The brand originated in the Highlands of Jalisco (Los Altos), Mexico. It is renowned for producing tequilas with sweeter, fruit-forward profiles due to its unique terroir—red volcanic soil, high elevation, and cooler climate. These conditions contribute to developing agave with higher sugar content and more complex flavors.
Production Methods
Crafted using traditional methods, Lalo combines meticulous attention to detail, resulting in a clean and high-quality spirit. The production process emphasizes natural flavors and transparency, with no additives used at any stage. Key steps include:
- Agave Cultivation - The company sources only 100% mature Blue Weber agave grown in the Highlands. These agaves are carefully selected and harvested after 7–8 years to ensure optimal ripeness, yielding rich sugars that define the tequila's flavor profile.
- Cooking - The agave is cooked in traditional stone and brick ovens or hornos. This slow-roasting process caramelizes the agave's natural sugars, enhancing the earthy, sweet, and vegetal notes.
- Extraction - Once cooked, the agave is crushed using a roller mill to extract the juice (mosto). This method preserves the integrity of the cooked agave flavors while maintaining efficiency.
- Fermentation - Fermentation is carried out using proprietary champagne yeast. This choice contributes to Lalo's signature flavor profile, imparting floral and fruity notes. The fermentation process takes place in open-air tanks, allowing natural microflora to influence the tequila's complexity further.
Distillation
The tequila is double distilled in copper pot stills. Copper is favored for removing impurities and enhancing the tequila's clarity and flavor. The result is a smooth, crisp spirit that retains the natural character of the agave.
No Additives
Lalo Tequila adheres to an additive-free philosophy. No artificial sweeteners, flavorings, or colorants are added, making it an ideal choice for tequila purists and those seeking a natural product.
Expressions
Lalo Tequila takes a minimalist approach by focusing solely on Blanco expressions. This deliberate choice highlights the brand’s commitment to authenticity and the art of crafting tequila without the influence of aging.
· Lalo Tequila Blanco
Lalo Blanco is a bright and vibrant expression of pure agave. It captures the essence of the Highlands with a flavor profile that includes:
· Nose: Fresh citrus, cooked agave, and hints of tropical fruit.
· Palate: A balance of cooked agave sweetness, bright citrus zest, and light floral notes.
· Finish: Smooth and clean, with a lingering peppery spice.
· Lalo Blanco Overproof
This expression, often bottled at a higher proof (commonly 55% ABV or 110 proof), offers a bolder, more concentrated experience of the same craftsmanship and dedication that defines the flagship blanco.
· Nose: Pronounced cooked agave with enhanced citrus, tropical fruit, and herbal notes.
· Palate: Richer agave sweetness, intensified pepper, spice, and vibrant citrus zest. The higher proof may also introduce subtle earthy or mineral undertones.
· Finish: A long, warm finish with a pleasing balance of heat and complexity.
By concentrating on blanco expressions, Lalo showcases the beauty of tequila in its most unadulterated form, unmasking the agave's natural complexity and elegance.
Ownership
Lalo Tequila remains privately owned and operated by Eduardo González and his team. This independence allows the brand to prioritize quality over mass production. Lalo's direct involvement in every process ensures the tequila maintains its artisanal craftsmanship and adherence to the family legacy.
Conclusion
Lalo Tequila is a brand that honors tradition while appealing to modern sensibilities. It exemplifies the essence of Highlands tequila through its commitment to purity, simplicity, and quality. The focus on only blanco expressions speaks volumes about the brand’s philosophy: to let the agave shine. With its meticulous production methods and adherence to transparency, it has garnered a dedicated following among tequila aficionados and newcomers alike.
For those seeking a premium, additive-free tequila that embodies authenticity and craftsmanship, Lalo Tequila delivers a timeless and refreshing experience. It is a true celebration of agave and a worthy continuation of the González family's storied legacy in the tequila world.