Origins of Tequila
In order to truly appreciate tequila, you must first understand some of the history of Mexico and of the drink itself. The history of tequila reaches back into pre-Hispanic times when the natives fermented sap from the local maguey plants into a drink called pulgue. There are no records as to when exactly humans learned to ferment sap into alcohol, but it was already ancient when the Spaniard Conquistadors arrived, and by 1520 they had exported it into the Old World. Eager to maintain the market for Spanish products, in 1595 Phillip II banned the planting of new vineyards in Mexico.
The Father of Tequila
By 1600, Don Pedro Sances de Tagle, the father of tequila, established the first tequila factory, cultivating local agave for distillation. In 1785, the production of all spirits, including mezcal wines and pulque, were banned by the government of Charles III to favor and promote the importation of Spanish wines and liqueurs. While production was officially halted, it has actually gone underground. In 1792, King Ferdinand IV lifted the ban and authorities soon realized taxation, rather than prohibition, was the better means of control. During the War of Independence, tequila declined in importance and did not regain its prominence until after 1821 when Mexico attained independence, and Spanish products were harder to get.
Tequila Manufacturing
While many others produced tequila, the first licensed manufacturer was Jose Antonio Cuervo who got the rights to cultivate land in 1758. By mid-century, Cuervo's fields had more than 3 million agave plants. After Cuervo's death, Jesus Flores took over the distillery and pioneered the bottling of tequila. The first bottled tequila was sold in 1906. After Flores died, his widow married Jose Cuervo Labastida and soon the product became known as "Jose Cuervo." Today, Cuervo is the largest manufacturer of tequila, with a huge export market. Modern production techniques were introduced in the late 1920's. After the Depression, the industry again expanded. Prohibition in the US later that decade boosted tequila's popularity when it was smuggled across the border. The 1986 Olympic Games in Mexico City helped worldwide exposure.
The Tradition of Mariachi
Mariachi is just as intricately woven into the fabric of Mexican culture and history as is tequila. Musicians, clad in stunning charro suits and hats, playing guitars, violins, visuals, basses and trumpets are what make up the proud tradition which is mariachi. To see them strolling down the street or serenading on a moonlit night, provides the true insight as to why this music has endured for generations. Their songs tell a million different stories, widely varied from romance to death. They hold the secrets of an entire nation's history, from tales of wartime heroes to political revolutions. All the legend of the machismo of Mexico is held up in their soaring trumpets and proud stance. Mariachi continues to define both the Mexico of today and tomorrow with it's spirited sound and telling lyrics.
We invite you to come experience these Mexican traditions with us here in Los Cabos! Lifestyle Villas can help you find the perfect Los Cabos villa for your stay. In addition, take advantage of our concierge services. With our help, you'll have a Los Cabos vacation you'll never forget! Contact us today at 1-888-655-9589 to make your reservations.
LIFESYLE Villas Los Cabos: BEST Luxury Villa Rentals in Mexico!
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