A passion for craftsmanship and a dedication to perfection; in a world where mass production and a desire for ease of effort and quick results often drive decision-making, it can be difficult to find those who are led by such values. To find one who appreciates authenticity and genuine care for craft is to find a true artist, whether that commitment to excellence is represented by a monumental sculpture, such as those created by Mexico City-based artist Sebastián, or in a bottle of naturally perfect tequila, like that produced by PATRÓN. When two such creators come together for a one-of-a-kind collaboration that honors the richness of Mexican culture, tradition, and innovation, the results are nothing short of stunning.
Culture, Tradition, Innovation
To celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15-October 15), PATRÓN is releasing its 2022 limited edition Mexican Heritage Tin featuring a bottle of crystal clear, smooth, and sweet PATRÓN Silver. Released every year since 2016, the Mexican Heritage Tin series brilliantly illustrates the traditions and culture of Mexico. This is done via collaboration with a new artist each year. Previous artists have included muralist Senkoe (2021) and contemporary artist Verónica Villarreal (2016).
The partnership provides the opportunity for like-minded trailblazers to design a product that showcases Mexican creativity and artistry. It exemplifies passion, drive, and tireless dedication to craft and quality. It also keeps up PATRÓN’s tradition of working with other pioneers who, like them, are grounded in history but also keep their eyes on the future, who recognize the value of both tradition and innovation.
This year’s tin features the work of master sculptor Sebastián. The artist is best known for uplifting, towering works of steel and concrete — his giant “gate” sculptures welcome individuals to cities; other monumental pieces have been adopted as official city symbols. His work can be found in Mexico and around the globe, in both urban and rural environments. The natural shapes that pepper the Mexican landscape inspire Sebastián’s abstract geometric forms and bold colors.
Sebastián’s design for the 2022 Mexican Heritage Tin is based on an overhead view of the agave heart. It depicts one of the oldest traditions in Mexico — the harvesting and cutting of Weber Blue Agave piñas from which PATRÓN Silver is made. His use of vivid, vibrant colors and geometric design alludes to his greater body of sculptural work. The style also echoes the detailed process of cutting the agave, which is typically trimmed down to the heart by jimadors (farmers) wielding sharp coas, or axes. The work reflects both artist and artisan, celebrating culture and creativity while honoring the process required for achieving perfection.
Shared Commitment and Sense of Pride
Exceptional craftspeople share their skills and passion as a way to safeguard the history and collective knowledge of their craft, making sure both are passed into the safe hands of the next generation. From plant to production to bottling, PATRÓN honors this type of process, attending to detail and drawing on skills that are guided by human touch.
PATRÓN Tequila is still exclusively produced in the highlands of Jalisco, in the same small batches and guided by the same commitment to quality and craftsmanship. In its traditional production process, PATRÓN relies on centuries-old natural techniques for sourcing and preparing the agaves, fermenting, distilling, aging, and bottling. The plants, people, and overall environment are treated with care. A measured, intentional process respects the resources while also eliciting the finest, purest flavor.
The best 100% Weber Blue Agave is harvested only after seven or eight years of growth and ripening. No additives are used. The agave is hand-chopped and then baked in brick ovens for more than 70 hours. In addition to a roller mill, the old-fashioned tahona process is applied, extracting the juice from the agave fibers using a two-ton volcanic stone. The pure agave juice and fiber are fermented separately and then distilled in small-batch copper pot stills. In this way, PATRÓN Silver — and all PATRÓN tequila — achieves its consistent, smooth flavor profile.
After it’s distilled, the tequila is ready to be transferred to the signature PATRÓN bottle that’s been perfectly measured and molded. Every bottle is then hand packaged. By the time a bottle leaves the distillery, it’s been touched and inspected by over 60 hands.
It is this relentless commitment to perfection that’s at the core of every bottle of PATRÓN Silver. The same ideals are at the heart of Sebastián’s work. Both amplify the richness of Mexican culture, tradition, and innovation. Because of this, their memorable and beautiful collaboration of art and craftsmanship is a meaningful way to honor National Hispanic Heritage Month, which recognizes and celebrates the diverse culture, the extensive history, and the many contributions of citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America.
Handcrafted Perfection
The collaboration between PATRÓN and Sebastián exemplifies the drive and dedication to craft and work that the two share. Their partnership of passionate mastery celebrates the distinctive natural elements as well as the rich, broad, and spectacular beauty of Mexican culture, tradition, and innovation.
Both PATRÓN and Sebastián are bold innovators; both push the boundaries of creativity, and both elevate and inspire others to strive for creative perfection while keeping authenticity at the heart of everything they do.
This article is sponsored by PATRÓN.
