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You'd be hard pressed to find anyone more dedicated to the craft of tequila making than a Jimador.

You’d be hard pressed to find anyone more dedicated to the craft of tequila making than a Jimador. Beyond the guys working in the distillery, these agave whisperers are pretty much the key to the rest of us tequila lovers getting a taste of the stuff. We ventured outside Guadalajara to Casa Herradura, the home of El Jimador, to meet one live in the flesh and get the skinny on their trade. We caught up with a couple of other workers while we were at it.

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FELIX (lead image)

VICE: HI Felix, nice to meet you. What do you do here at Casa Herradura?

Felix: I’m a Jimador. Our job is to pick the agave using a tool called coa (a kind of axe). We cut the leaves of the agave until we find its central part, which we call it the heart. That’s what they make tequila from. We can cut literally tons of agaves daily, with no technology. It’s all done with our hands.

What’s it like working on the plantation?

It’s really nice. You get up early, you’re in touch with nature all day. You meet with friends, work and hang out with them.

What are the different stages in the process of making tequila?

First the Jimadors collect the agave and then we get the hearts loaded in huge ovens to cook to get the sugars within the plant. Next It’s fermentation, distillation, and finally the resting period. All tequila is put into charred oak barrels to be aged but It really depends of what kind of tequila you’re making: Blanco (white) tequila is bottled straight away. Reposado (rested) aged for around two months. Añejo (aged) is aged for a year at least.

Why is tequila such an important drink in Guadalajara?

It’s the drink we like the most, plus we really appreciate what the drink means to Mexico have, we’re proud of it. Making tequila is like art, it’s a pretty heavy responsibility, too.

EFREN SANDOVAL

Why is tequila such an important drink in Guadalajara - and Mexico?

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It’s just part of our tradition, a lot of people worked this land and this process before we got here. Let’s enjoy it, preserve it, learn about it.

What makes a really great tequila? And how hard is it to create one?

It has to be 100% agave. The process for a great tequila is way slower because we don’t accelerate anything with either machines or chemical products.

Are there any cultural traditions that revolve around tequila?

We have a Tequila Carnaval full of partying, mariachi music, beautiful ladies and all the tequila you want!

Does tequila have to be made in Guadalajara, or does it just have to be made from the blue agave?

People can do whatever they want, but if they don’t have the Tequila Trade Agreement or Denomination of Origin then it’s worth nothing. If is not from this region, you’re drinking pee…

ALEJANDRO RIESTRA

What do you do here, Alejandro?

I can do almost everything, I drive a bus, go to the field, I do it all.

How long have you been involved in making tequila?

Eight years. I really enjoy it, feeling the sun heat, the fresh air. There’s a lot of hard work for sure, but at least we’ve got beautiful landscapes and weather.

How long has it been made in Guadalajara?

I guess it was since the Spanish colonies arrived in America. Tequila has a long  tradition and a history, just like our country…

Are there many special occasions that tequila plays a big part in?

Around Christmas and other holidays we have non-stop tequila sessions at home with the family. Lots of food, lots of fun.

Why do you think it’s such an important drink to Mexicans?

It provides jobs, it’s fun, and makes ladies look better. I’m joking! (laughs).