If you’re a fan of tequila, chances are you’ve heard of Casamigos – the tequila brand co-founded by George Clooney, Rande Gerber, and Mike Meldman in 2013. Since its launch, Casamigos has become one of the fastest-growing and most popular tequila brands in the world, winning numerous awards and accolades along the way.
In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at George Clooney tequila brand – from its history and production process to its different types and flavors. We’ll also provide you some tips on how to enjoy Casamigos to the fullest, whether you’re sipping it neat, mixing it in a cocktail, or pairing it with food.
The History Of Casamigos
The story of Casamigos began in 2013, when George Clooney and his friends Rande Gerber and Mike Meldman were vacationing in Mexico. While enjoying some tequila, the trio realized that they had yet to find a tequila brand that met their standards. They decided to create their own tequila brand, with the goal of producing a high-quality, smooth, and flavorful tequila that they could enjoy themselves and share with others.
After two years of experimenting and tasting, the team finally found the perfect blend of agave and distillation techniques. They launched Casamigos in 2013, and it quickly became a hit among tequila lovers and celebrities alike. In 2017, Casamigos was acquired by spirits giant Diageo for a reported $1 billion, solidifying its place as one of the top tequila brands in the world.
The Production Process
One of the things that set Casamigos apart from other tequila brands is its unique production process. Casamigos is made from 100% Blue Weber agave, which is grown in highlands of Jalisco, Mexico. The agave plants are harvested by the hand and roasted in traditional brick ovens for 72 hours, which gives the tequila its distinctive flavor profile.
After roasting, the agave is crushed and the juice is fermented for 80 hours, using a proprietary yeast strain that was developed specifically for Casamigos. The tequila is then double-distilled in copper stills, which helps to further refine the flavor and remove any impurities. Finally, the tequila is aged in oak barrels for up to 14 months, which gives it its smooth and complex taste.
Types And Flavors
Casamigos offers three different types of tequila: Blanco, Reposado, and Añejo. Each type has its own unique flavor profile and is suited for different drinking occasions.
Blanco is the most traditional type of tequila, and it’s also the most versatile. Casamigos Blanco is crystal clear in color, with a bright and fresh flavor that’s perfect for sipping on its own or mixing in a cocktail. It has notes of citrus and vanilla, along with a subtle smokiness that comes from the roasting process.
Reposado is aged for up to 7 months in oak barrels, which gives it a smooth and slightly sweet flavor. Casamigos Reposado has a golden color, with notes of caramel, honey, and oak. It’s perfect for sipping on its own, and it also works well in cocktails that call for a more complex and flavorful tequila.
Añejo is aged for up to 14 months in oak barrels, which gives it a rich and complex flavor profile. Casamigos Añejo has a deep amber color, with notes of caramel, chocolate, and oak. It’s best enjoyed neat, as the flavors and aromas are best experienced without any mixers. It’s also a great tequila to pair with food, particularly with dishes that have bold and rich flavors.
In addition to its three main types of tequila, Casamigos also offers a range of flavored tequilas, including Mezcal, Pineapple, and Strawberry. These flavored tequilas are made by infusing the base tequila with natural flavors and ingredients, which gives them a unique and distinctive taste.
How To Enjoy Casamigos?
Whether you prefer to sip your tequila neat or mix it in a cocktail, there are plenty of ways to enjoy Casamigos. Here are few tips on how to get the most out of this premium tequila brand:
Sipping: If you’re new to tequila or you want to savor the complex flavors and aromas of Casamigos, try sipping it neat or on the rocks. Start with the Blanco or Reposado, which are both smooth and easy to drink, and work your way up to the Añejo if you’re feeling adventurous. Take your time to savor the flavors, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different glassware and serving temperatures.
Mixing: Casamigos is versatile tequila that works well in a variety of cocktails. Try mixing it in a classic Margarita, a spicy Jalapeño Margarita, or a refreshing Paloma. You can also use Casamigos in other cocktails that call for tequila, such as a Tequila Sunrise, a Tequila Sour, or a Tequila Old Fashioned. Just be sure to use fresh ingredients and high-quality mixers to enhance the flavor of the tequila.
Pairing: If you’re looking to pair Casamigos with food, try pairing the Blanco or Reposado with lighter dishes, such as grilled fish, ceviche, or tacos. The Añejo pairs well with heartier dishes, such as barbecued meats, mole, or spicy stews. You can also pair Casamigos with chocolate or other desserts that have a rich and complex flavor.