Grower Story
Javier Arriaga
In the picturesque and rich agave fields of Tepatitlán, in the highlands of Jalisco, a story is woven deeply rooted in tradition and passion for the land. Here, amidst the altitude and mineral-rich soil, the blue agave thrives. Cultivated for generations and revered for its crucial role in the production of tequila; Mexico's iconic spirit.
Early in the morning, Javier Arriaga awakes to the first crow of the roosters in his hometown of Tepatitlán. At the age 67, he has dedicated over half a century of his life to the art of being a jimador. A vocation that has defined not just his career but his entire life.
His day begins long before dawn, at 2:30 am, while the rest of the world still sleeps. He meticulously prepares for the day ahead in the agave fields. By 4:30 am, he is ready to commence the jima. The critical process of removing the agave leaves to expose the piña, known as the heart of the agave, that will be harvested.
With his coa in hand, a sharp tool wielded with expertise gained over decades, Javier and his fellow workers navigate carefully among the thorny plants. Knee pads and steel-toed boots are essential for protection against the inherent hazards of the job.
He fondly reminisces about his youth, when they would jimar in the remote hills, sometimes camping for days to complete their task.
"In those days, we would encounter snakes from time to time," he recalls with a smile. "But they were no trouble; we would kill them and cook them for dinner. Actually I have a snake's tongue in my wallet because it is good for treating strokes.” These colorful memories highlight the toughness and rustic charm of a life devoted to the land and hard work.
After completing his day as a jimador, Javier doesn't slow down. He heads to the lands he now cultivates and nurtures, assisting one of his children in keeping the family tradition alive. "I can't sit still," he admits with a chuckle. "Work is my vitamin; it keeps me active and full of life."
Javier Arriaga's story is not just that of a man who has dedicated his life to a demanding and honorable profession but also a testament of resilience, perseverance, and love for the land and its enduring traditions. With each agave he harvests, he continues to weave the legacy of generations of jimadores who have elevated this labor into an art form and a way of life.