The Mexican government has granted a license for bottling tequila in Russia, marking the first time this has occurred, according to a report from business daily RBK. The Crystal distillery, based in Kaluga, has been given permission to bottle the signature Mexican drink, even though its production cannot take place in Russia itself. The Mexican Embassy clarified that tequila can only be extracted from the ‘Tequila Weber’ variety of blue agave, which is exclusively grown in certain Mexican states including Guanajuato, Jalisco, Michoacan, Nayarit, and Tamaulipas.
The embassy explained, “Therefore tequila cannot be produced outside Mexico but it can be bottled outside the Mexican territory.” This statement confirms that while Russia can now bottle tequila, its production will still occur in Mexico due to the specific agave variety required.
The owner of Crystal distillery, Pavel Pobedkin, revealed that they are preparing for the launch of the tequila line in 2024, but no further details about the project were provided.
The Mexican government has long protected the name ‘tequila’ by registering it for exclusive use. In the 1970s, a law was enacted that specified only blue agave liquor produced in specific regions of Mexico could be branded as tequila. To produce the drink, manufacturers must obtain permission or a license from the government through the Mexican Institute of Industrial Property (IMPI).
It is important to note that the Crystal spirits plant is one of Russia’s top ten alcohol producers in terms of volume, with an annual capacity exceeding 20 million liters. This new venture into tequila bottling presents an opportunity for the company to expand its product offerings and capitalize on the popularity of the Mexican beverage.
The decision to grant a license for tequila bottling in Russia may be seen as a strategic move by Mexico to expand its presence in the growing Russian market. This could potentially open up new opportunities for trade and collaboration between the two countries in the beverage industry.
Tequila has gained popularity worldwide in recent years, with its unique flavor and versatility making it a favorite spirit for many. By allowing tequila bottling in Russia, Mexico is tapping into a market that has shown increasing interest in alcoholic beverages, particularly those with international acclaim.
The exact impact of this development on the tequila industry and the Russian market remains to be seen. However, it is clear that the granting of the license for tequila bottling in Russia represents a significant milestone for both countries, and it will be interesting to see how this partnership unfolds in the future.
In conclusion, the Mexican government has granted a license allowing the bottling of tequila in Russia, a move that opens up new possibilities for both countries. While tequila production will still take place in Mexico due to the specific agave variety required, this venture presents an opportunity for the Crystal distillery to expand its product offerings and for Mexico to increase its presence in the Russian market. Only time will tell how this partnership will evolve and what impact it will have on the tequila industry as a whole.
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