Exploring Hacienda PATRÓN

On our recent visit to Hacienda PATRÓN® as part of Mundo de Agave, we were privileged to witness firsthand the artistry and dedication that goes into every bottle of PATRÓN tequila. Led by the brilliant Daphne, La Casona Brand Ambassador, Tour Host, and Chemical Engineer, the experience was nothing short of remarkable. With some of the top minds in the bar world among our guests, we were in excellent company to explore the people and process behind one of the world’s most iconic tequilas.

One of the key takeaways from the tour was how PATRÓN maintains its unwavering commitment to quality. Rather than relying on large-scale automated processes, they focus on replicating smaller, traditional methods of distillation. This hands-on approach ensures that every bottle lives up to the PATRÓN name. One of the most memorable moments was watching the tahonas—large volcanic stones—crush agave fibers, an ancient practice that PATRÓN uses. Seeing this method in action brought home the importance of tradition in modern production.

Our tour also included a look at PATRÓN water reclamation facility and compost area. We toured the on-site garden, where vegetables are grown, and saw how elements like labelling and boxing the bottles are still done by hand, capitalizing the fact that every detail matters.

One of the highlights for our group was the tasting session, where we sampled both roller mill and tahona tequila. Blending the two together allowed us to discover how the iconic flavor profile of PATRÓN Silver is created. The depth of flavor and complexity, made possible by combining these two methods, was a revelation.

To cap off the experience, we were taken through an additive-free training led by Lauren Mote. It was eye-opening to learn that PATRÓN tequila is made without any additives, and the training taught us what to look for and taste in tequilas that do use them. This final session solidified our appreciation for the craftsmanship and integrity behind PATRÓN. From start to finish, our time at Hacienda PATRÓN was an unforgettable journey through the rich traditions and meticulous processes that make PATRÓN tequila a symbol of quality and authenticity.