The Agave revolution is gaining momentum across South Africa, with the country’s growing interest in Agave spirits showing just how far our local creativity can reach. This once obscure plant, with its roots deep in Mexican history, is now making waves in South Africa’s craft alcohol scene. From craft beers to artisanal gins, we’ve always had a unique knack for taking world-famous beverages and adding our own flair, and Agave spirits are no exception. It’s no surprise, then, that we’re quickly establishing ourselves in the world of Agave spirits, crafting South African Tequila with a flavor profile all our own.
But how exactly are we producing these distinctive Agave spirits, and what is it about the semi desert Karoo region that imparts such a unique flavor to the final product?
The secret lies in the hard work of pioneers like Tim Murray, who’s making history on his farm in Graaff-Reinet. This area, with its harsh yet rich environment, provides the perfect conditions for Agave plants to thrive. Over time, the unique combination of soil, climate, and history has cultivated a flavor profile that sets South African Agave spirits apart from others around the world.
The Agave Americana, which takes between 10 to 20 years to mature, is particularly suited to this region. As we explore the process of growing Agave in the Karoo and the fascinating history behind this plant, we’ll also delve into the story of how this unique environment has contributed to shaping a new and distinct chapter in South Africa’s agave spirit journey.
Let’s take a moment to break down the differences between Tequila, Mezcal, and Agave spirits to understand their unique qualities.
Tequila, perhaps the most familiar of the three, is a specific type of Agave spirit that must be produced in the Tequila region of Mexico, predominantly in the state of Jalisco. To be legally called Tequila, it must be made exclusively from the Blue Weber Agave (Agave Tequilana). Tequila production is tightly regulated, ensuring that each bottle upholds the authenticity of the traditional production methods. These strict standards guarantee that the Tequila you enjoy maintains a high level of quality, consistency, and preservation of the craftsmanship passed down through generations.
Mezcal, like Tequila, is an Agave-based spirit from Mexico, but with fewer production restrictions. Unlike Tequila, Mezcal can be produced anywhere in Mexico and can be made from over 50 different types of Agave plants. Mezcal is also known for its smokier flavor profile, as the Agave is typically roasted in earthen pits before fermentation. This gives Mezcal its signature smoky taste, making it a favorite among those who enjoy a bold, distinct flavor.
Agave spirits, on the other hand, are a broader category. These spirits can be made from any type of Agave plant and produced anywhere in the world, using a variety of methods. There are fewer regulations surrounding Agave spirits compared to Tequila and Mezcal, which allows for a diverse range of flavors, but it also means that the production standards are not as strictly governed.
The Karoo region, where La Tierra’s Agave spirit is crafted, is unique in its own right. While many of Mexico’s Agave-growing regions are true deserts, the Karoo is a semi desert This means the Karoo receives more rainfall than the arid conditions found in Mexico’s desert regions. This difference in climate influences the flavor profile of Agave grown in the Karoo, lending La Tierra’s spirit a distinct taste. It retains that gorgeous, smooth, and bold kick that you find in traditional Tequila, yet with a unique South African twist that only the Karoo’s environment can provide.
Now this is where the story takes an interesting turn! While we may not know the exact details of how the Agave plant made its way across the seas to reach South Africa, Tim Murray’s family has a rich history that dates back to the 1800s, shedding light on how it eventually took root in Graaff-Reinet.
Tim’s family has been farming Karoo Agave (also known as Agave Americana) for five generations, and the tale begins with one of his ancestors in the Eastern Cape’s Wild Coast. During a severe drought, she noticed that goats and sheep were feeding on Agave plants as they searched for sustenance. Curious, she took three samples of the plant and brought them back to the family farm in Graaff-Reinet, unknowingly setting the stage for what would become a major agricultural shift.
At first, the Agave plant was used for a completely different purpose: ostrich farming. In the 1860s, ostrich feathers were highly sought after for fashion, particularly for hats. The Agave plant was sold to farmers as fodder for their birds, without anyone fully realising the plant’s potential beyond feeding livestock.
It wasn’t until the 1990s that Karoo Agave found its true calling in the production of Agave spirits. A shortage of Agave in Mexico presented an opportunity for local innovation. Enter Mr. Harvey Venter, who saw an untapped potential in South Africa’s Agave Americana. While exporting Agave to Mexico was a profitable venture, Venter recognised the long-term value of producing Agave spirit locally. This vision helped pave the way for the South African Agave spirit revolution we’re witnessing today, with a distinctive flavor profile that blends the history of the Karoo with the craftsmanship of Agave distillation.
What started as a simple discovery during a drought has now blossomed into an integral part of South Africa’s growing Agave spirit industry, all thanks to the foresight of a few visionary individuals and the resilient, multifaceted Karoo Agave plant.
The bold vision of establishing a South African Tequila distillery has only recently come to life, marking the dawn of what promises to be an Agave spirit revolution across the country. As we embark on this exciting journey, we are at the forefront of an industry that has vast potential, and La Tierra is proud to be part of the trailblazing movement that will put South African Agave spirits on the global map.
The semi-desert climate of the Karoo plays a crucial role in shaping the distinctive flavor profile of La Tierra Agave spirits. The region’s hot, arid conditions force the Agave plants to endure, making the sugars within the Agave more concentrated. This leads to a more complex and robust flavor, resulting in a spirit that offers deeper, bolder, and more intense characteristics compared to those grown in other regions. It’s this very unique combination of climate, soil, and Agave that gives La Tierra its signature taste—a fusion of the Karoo’s wild beauty and the spirit of South Africa.
At La Tierra, we proudly use the Agave Americana, farmed in the Karoo, to create our premium spirits. But while we celebrate the South African roots of our product, we are committed to preserving the traditional methods of Tequila production that have been honed over centuries in Mexico. We understand that it’s not just about the plant, but the time-tested process that ensures a high-quality, authentic spirit. Our distillation methods follow the best practices of Mexican Tequila production, bringing the heart of traditional craftsmanship into every bottle.
As we continue to explore and deepen our understanding of Agave Americana, we strive to perfect our production techniques, making sure that each batch reflects the unique qualities of the Karoo while maintaining the highest standards of global excellence. The more we learn about this incredible plant, the better we can craft a spirit that truly showcases the magic of South Africa’s Agave and the rich traditions of tequila-making.
We’re thrilled to witness the growth and expansion of locally crafted, small-batch Agave spirits in South Africa, and we believe this is just the beginning of an exciting journey. At present, we produce three distinctive spirits – a crisp Blanco, a smooth Reposado, and an Anejo (coming soon) that promises to offer a rich, mature experience. As the demand for Karoo Agave spirits increases, so too will the need for more land dedicated to Agave cultivation. This growth brings with it incredible opportunities for the local communities in the villages and towns of the Karoo desert, potentially transforming the agricultural landscape and creating jobs in this unique part of the world.
The rise of the Karoo Agave industry could fuel a new wave of economic activity, empowering locals and creating a thriving Agave-driven ecosystem. As the industry flourishes, more farmers will be able to cultivate Agave Americana, further enhancing the quality and availability of South African Agave spirits.
If you’re crafting a signature cocktail, having some “me time”, or sharing a round of shots with friends, La Tierra offers a truly unique experience. It’s a blend of Mexican tradition with a distinct South African twist—a spirit that celebrates both cultures and the rich heritage of the Karoo. The future of Agave spirits in South Africa is bright, and we’re proud to be part of the journey!
