proximo x becle

A short history of the world’s oldest tequila brand becoming a global spirits producer.

1758

José Antonio de Cuervo y Valdés was given a writ of land ownership by King Ferdinand to plant agave on his land for producing tequila.

1795

The King of Spain Carlos IV issued a royal decree (Cédula Real) to Jose María Guadalupe de Cuervo y Montaño to produce and sell “Vino de Mezcal,” which is now known as tequila. This is generally considered the first license to produce and distribute tequila.

King of Spain

1812

La Rojeña is founded, the oldest and currently active distillery in Latin America.

1880

Jose Cuervo was the first tequila brand to bottle tequila individually, making it easier to transport and meet the booming demand in Mexico and across the border in the United States.

1945

The myth has it that in 1945 America's favorite cocktail, the Margarita was invented using Jose Cuervo Tequila.

1974

appelation of origin

Proximo's parent company Becle helps establish tequila’s appellation of origin. Just like Champagne can only be made in France or Scotch can only be made in Scotland, in order for a spirit to be called “tequila” it had to be made in certain states of Mexico.

2007

Proximo Spirits is established.

Proximo Spirits is established and over the next decade goes on to acquire Three Olives Vodka, Hangar 1 Vodka, Stranahan’s American Single Malt, Boodles Gin, Pendleton Whisky. The company creates TINCUP American Whiskey, Kraken Rum. The company distributes 1800 Tequilla, Gran Centenario Tequila, Maestro Dobel Tequila, 400 Conejos and Creyente Mezcal. 



2013

Jose Cuervo brand is distributed in the United States through Proximo Spirits.
7 million cases are exported.

2016

Acquisition of Old Bushmills Distillery, the world's oldest licensed whiskey distillery, and producer of Bushmills Irish Whiskey.