Directed by Marta Chierego, ‘The Spirit of Don Julio’ is short documentary that delves into the soul of tequila, the land that nurtures it, and the man who revolutionized it. Shot with style by Anna Franquesa Solano, this film is rich in both substance and visual splendour, seamlessly pulling in history, culture, and craftsmanship into an absorbing docu-short.
From the agave fields under the Mexican sun, to the heart of La Primavera distillery, ‘The Spirit of Don Julio’ takes us into the origins of a drink now celebrated worldwide. Tara Fougner, an insightful spirit journalist, takes us through this exploration, speaking with locals in Jalisco – farmers, artists, and chefs – who reveal the deep-seated influence of Don Julio’s legacy.
González’s story is one of vision and perseverance. As a young man, he established his own distillery in 1942, refusing to cut corners in pursuit of excellence. Today, his name is synonymous with high-quality tequila, a brand that not only elevated the industry but also provided economic lifeblood to his hometown. Through interviews, we meet the people keeping his vision alive – a jimadore, whose backbreaking labor in the fields transforms blue agave into liquid gold, and the distillers who uphold his exacting standards.
Beyond the mechanics of fermentation and distillation, ‘The Spirit of Don Julio’ is about impact – how one man’s pursuit of perfection rippled outward, shaping a region and an industry. It’s educational, inspiring, and a must-watch for those who appreciate both craft and legacy. A fascinating, impeccably crafted documentary that leaves you with a newfound respect for the artisans and the tradition that defines truly great tequila. A worthy watch.
