A MASTER AND HIS DREAM
Master Distiller Cirilo Oropeza spent decades learning both the science of distillation and the art of tequila making. His passion for it, matched with his strict attention to detail, allowed Cirilo to dedicate himself to the dream of creating a tequila of great quality that everyone could enjoy.
In 1995 he met a local entrepreneur who shared his ambition. They formed a partnership which enabled the creation of a state-of-the-art home for this dream tequila. Destiladora San Nicolas became that home and Espolòn became that tequila.
The award-winning tequilas of Espolòn stand as testament to Cirilo’s pioneering spirit, commitment to his art and promise to never give up on his dreams.
THE GREAT ROOSTER TALE
When it came time to name his beloved tequila, Master Distiller Cirilo looked to another important part of Mexican culture for inspiration. Named for the spur of the rooster, a powerful symbol of national pride, Espolòn is a fitting tribute to the true storied culture of Mexico.
We call our rooster Ramón. He’s our icon and our spirit animal. Ramón leads the charge. He’s not afraid to stir things up. And he can be counted on anytime you need a little spur to get things going.
THE LEGEND BEHIND THE LABEL
Espolòn, at its heart, is a tribute to Mexican culture. Our artwork, like our tequila, borrows from the past and gives it a modern twist. Each label tells a story from Mexico’s rich history. Each captures a different moment, but all pay tribute to one true hero – José Guadalupe Posada.
Posada was a 19th century artist and printmaker, a real pioneer and a bit of a rebel. His most famous work, the calavera (skulls), made powerful commentary on the social injustices of his time. With his sharp wit and clever hand, he gave his people a voice, and gave the art world a style that continues to influence pop culture today.
LET’S START A REVOLUTION
Each year Mexico marks September 16 to celebrate its Independence. This day is chosen to commemorate the 1810 uprising which saw Father Miguel Hidalgo lead the people in the first stand against the injustices of Spanish rule. Our Blanco label is a fitting tribute to that occasion. Here, Guadalupe and Rosarita fight alongside Father Hidalgo, known from this eventful day forward as the father of his country. Our very own Ramón the Rooster leads the charge, setting the stage for Mexico’s revolution.
LET’S REMEMBER THE MARKETPLACE
The marketplace holds special importance in Mexican history. It’s where culture meets commerce, arts mingle with crafts and all walks of life come together. This story of the market goes way back to the remnants of the ancient Aztec civilization, and the establishment of Mexico City by the Spanish conquistadors. In it, our gutsy do-gooders Guadalupe and Rosarita, guided by Ramón the Rooster, scheme to keep important traditions of their culture alive.
LET’S STAND UP AND DANCE
Strictly forbidden by authorities for being too risqué, the Jarabe Tapatio was a powerful form of protest during the years after the Mexican Revolution. This provocative ritual has become an important part of the culture and is now looked upon proudly as a powerful symbol of Mexico’s independent spirit. Reimagining its rebellious beginnings, our couple, Guadalupe and Rosarita, rise up against authority to celebrate the time-honored dance ... while Ramón the Rooster raises a drink to spur them on.
BEHOLD THE “RESURREXION"
In keeping with the traditional Mexican belief that with all death comes a celebration of renewed life, our Añejo X label reimagines one of Posada’s most enduring works. Here, our very own Ramón the Rooster stands in noble vigil as the calaveras serenade the joyous renewal of the spirit.