Bottling of Tequila

For the final bottling of Tequila, either for domestic sale or for export, some previous actions are carried out in order to adapt the quality of the Tequila, these steps are: homogenization and filtering.

Homogenization of Tequila

This step consists of meticulously mixing the water with the Tequila to ensure a uniform consistency throughout the batch and leave it at the required alcoholic strength. Homogenization is vital to stabilize the flavor profile and clarity of the final product.

In the case of young Tequilas, also known as 'abocados', special attention is recommended prior to filtration. For these products, the addition of natural oak or oak extracts or caramel color is advisable. These ingredients not only enrich the flavor and aroma, but also contribute to the aesthetics of the Tequila, giving it a deeper and more attractive color.

The application of these extracts must be done with precision before filtration to avoid any possibility of turbidity or the presence of sediment in the final product. Filtration, which follows the homogenization and addition of extracts, is an essential step that guarantees the purity and brilliance of the Tequila, eliminating unwanted particles and ensuring that the product that reaches the consumer is of the highest quality.

This careful process of preparation and enrichment not only enhances the organoleptic qualities of young Tequila, but also reflects the manufacturer's commitment to excellence and tradition of this emblematic Mexican beverage.

Tequila Filtration

Tequila filtration is a meticulous process that ensures the elimination of solid particles and the preservation of the intrinsic qualities of the beverage. After diluting the Tequila to the desired percentage of alcohol by volume and homogenizing its ingredients, the most appropriate type of filter is selected. The ideal filter is one that, during filtration, maintains the Tequila's profile intact: its characteristic aromas, body and distinctive appearance.

It is essential that the filtration process be adjusted to the specific finish of each Tequila. Filters must be carefully chosen to control esters, eliminating a certain percentage to achieve a polished and refined finish, resulting in a clean, bright Tequila with well-defined aromas.

Types of Filters Used for Tequila

• Cellulose Plate: Composed of diatomaceous earth and a potential charge, it can be presented as a filter plate with four holes at its ends or a 16-cell cartridge.
• Carbon Plate: A mixture of powdered carbon and cellulose, available in 16-cell cartridges.
• Bag Filter: Made of reinforced polypropylene, with an intermediate mesh of the same material to withstand high pressures.
• Plug/Cartridge Filters: Manufactured in polypropylene of graduated density for deep filtration, available in various formats, including double open, with bayonet or double O-ring connector, as well as stainless steel cartridges of various microns.

Precautions prior to Tequila Filtration

• Cleaning of the equipment (hosting) where the filter will be installed.
• Inspection of the filters to verify that they are not damaged.
• Make sure that the filters are correctly installed, with complete gaskets and properly sealed.
• Check the pressure gauge of the equipment before filling it with Tequila, avoiding empty spaces to maximize the filtration area.
• Check for leaks and adjust the pressure gradually according to the type of filter used.
• Record the amount of liters filtered and the pressure indicated on the pressure gauge, monitoring the inlet and outlet pressure to evaluate the filter performance.
• Sampling during filtration to examine the appearance, color, body, aromas and flavor of the Tequila.
• Homogenize the filtered volume to confirm that the alcohol percentage by volume and color are correct.
• This filtration procedure is vital to maintaining the quality and reputation of Tequila, ensuring that each bottle reflects the richness and tradition of this iconic Mexican beverage.

Bottling Tequila

Before proceeding to the bottling of Tequila, it is imperative to comply with a series of essential requirements to ensure the conformity of the product with the required distinctive characteristics. These requirements are:

1. Conformity of Characteristics: It is crucial that the Tequila meets the established quality standards, including alcoholic strength, color, aroma, body and brilliance. It is advisable to carry out a detailed sensory evaluation to ensure the consistency of the product profile.
2. Sampling by the C.R.T.: The Consejo Regulador del Tequila (C.R.T.) must perform a rigorous sampling, using three bottles of 1000 ml each, to verify the standardization of the product.
3. Compliance with NOM-006-SCFI-2012: The purpose of the sampling performed by the C.R.T. is to confirm that the Tequila complies with the requirements established in the official Mexican standard NOM-006-SCFI-2012. This includes verification of parameters such as alcohol content, methanol, higher alcohols, aldehydes, esters, furfural, dry extract and total reducing sugars.
4. Suitability for the Export Market: If the destination is for export, it is necessary to consider whether the Tequila meets the required parameters for the contemplated export markets, thus ensuring its acceptance and success in the international arena.

These steps prior to bottling are fundamental to maintain the integrity and high reputation of Tequila in the global market.

Tequila, the spirit that captures the essence of Mexico, must comply with strict regulations to guarantee its quality and authenticity. According to current regulations, Tequila must be bottled in new containers that meet sanitary standards. Approved materials for these containers include glass, aluminum, laminated cardboard, stainless steel and polyethylene terephthalate (PET), each selected for its properties to preserve the integrity of the Tequila.

The maximum capacity allowed for each container is 5 liters, a measure that seeks to preserve quality and facilitate distribution control. It is crucial that the containers do not bear any brands other than those of the Authorized Producer or the bottler that complies with the terms of the corresponding Mexican Official Standard (NOM). This provision ensures that the consumer receives a legitimate product and avoids confusion that could arise from inappropriate labeling.

Tequila 100% agave, recognized for its purity and unique flavor, must be bottled exclusively by the manufacturer in the region delimited by the general declaration of appellation of origin. This legally protected region is the heart of Tequila production, where agave is grown and processed following ancestral traditions. This localized bottling requirement not only protects the Tequila appellation of origin but also contributes to the regional economy, supporting local producers and maintaining the cultural heritage of this beverage.

As for the general category of Tequila, it can be marketed in its five recognized variants: Blanco, Joven, Reposado, Añejo and Extra Añejo. Each class offers a different experience to the palate, the result of different aging and blending processes. These classes can be sold in bulk, allowing both domestic and international bottlers to offer them under their own brands, as long as they comply with the established regulations.

The regulation of Tequila bottling is a fundamental aspect of preserving its identity and guaranteeing that consumers enjoy a high quality product. The standards not only protect Tequila's reputation but also safeguard the traditional practices of its production, ensuring that this beverage continues to be a symbol of pride for Mexico and a delight for the entire world.

Certification for Tequila Bottlers in Mexico

In the regulatory framework of the tequila industry in Mexico, the certification of bottlers plays a crucial role in guaranteeing the quality and authenticity of tequila. The regulations allow the Tequila category to be bottled in facilities that do not belong to an Authorized Producer, as long as the bottler only filters and dilutes the tequila with potable, distilled or demineralized water. This must be done respecting the commercial alcoholic content parameters established in NOM-006-SCFI-2012, without allowing maturation or alteration of the product.

Requirements for the Certification of Tequila Bottlers:

1. Submit a simple copy of the Bottlers Approval Certificate (CAE), issued by the General Directorate of Standards (DGN). Details of this procedure can be found in SE-04-017.
2. Submit the original of the Co-responsibility Agreement (bulk agreement format) executed between the Authorized Producer and the packer, together with a simple copy of the authorization of the agreement by the Mexican Institute of Industrial Property (IMPI).
3. Provide a simple copy of the Trademark Registration Title.
4. Attach a set of labels or the corresponding label project.
5. Complete the Application for the Provision of Services and Customer Obligations, using the form provided by the Tequila Regulatory Council (CRT).
6. To fill out the Questionnaires of Dictamination parts 3 and 4.
7. Provide a notarized copy of the company's Articles of Incorporation, specifying the names of the main directors and its legal representative.
8. Include a copy of the Federal Taxpayers Registry.
9. Attach a copy of the last annual income tax return or, in the case of a new company, the tax registration.
10. Submit a copy of the document that proves the total possession of the property with a validity of at least one year (deeds, lease contract, commodatum contract, written document from the ejido commissariat, etc.).

Upon presentation of these documents, the packer will be able to obtain from the CRT the Packer Registration Number of the Packer Registry in the Certification Body. In addition, it will be required to report quarterly to the CRT Conformity Assessment Body all movements of incoming and outgoing tequila from its facilities, as well as initial and final inventories for the period and shrinkage, in accordance with section 6.5.4.2 of NOM-006-SCFI-2012.

The required documents must be submitted at the CRT offices, located at Ave. Patria 723, Col. Jardines de Guadalupe, CP.45030, Zapopan, Jalisco, Mexico.