Our Process

Discover the artistry behind our Ethiopian Tej. From sourcing the finest ingredients to our meticulous brewing techniques, learn how tradition and innovation come together in every bottle.

Fresh, high-grade quality pure organic honey, hops, and filtered water using reverse osmosis are mixed in a traditional way for the liquefaction and turning it to fermentable sweetness and alcohol. It is through this process that The Heritage Winery can ensure that the natural flavors are allowed to fully develop without sulfites or any kind of additives. This method has been developed over many generations in ancient Ethiopia, and we are privileged and grateful that this thousand-years-old recipe has rightfully been passed on to us from family members who flew to the United States for the very purpose of handling it over to us. Our Tej and Tej-based wines are produced in small batches to ensure appropriate adjustments can be made, such as testing periodically by a certified laboratory in order to make sure that absolutely no sulfites are added to each individual batch.

Raw materials

From our blend of herbs and hops to our organic high-grade honey, we only uses the purest and the finest raw materials that nature can provide.

Honey

At Heritage Winery, we source our honey from sustainable, single-origin farms that prioritize eco-friendly beekeeping practices. Our honey comes from a trusted purveyors, ensuring the highest quality and consistency in flavor. By them working directly with responsible beekeepers, we can support ethical sourcing while preserving the natural biodiversity essential to honey production. Each variety of Tej we craft is made with carefully selected honey to highlight its unique floral and aromatic profile.

Hops

Traditionally, Tej in Ethiopia is brewed using Gesho (Rhamnus prinoides), a native plant that acts as both a bittering agent and a natural preservative. However, due to Gesho recently being classified as not GRAS-certified by the FDA, we had to adapt our process to comply with U.S. regulations.

At Heritage Winery, we now source our hops from domestic suppliers, carefully selecting varieties that best replicate the earthy, slightly bitter characteristics that Gesho provides. This allows us to maintain the integrity of our Tej while ensuring it meets regulatory standards. Our approach preserves the traditional balance of sweetness and complexity, staying true to the essence of Ethiopian honey wine.

FAQS

Find answers to common questions about making Tej, from the traditional process to the ingredients we use.

Where do you source your ingredients?

At Heritage Winery, we carefully source our ingredients from trusted domestic and international suppliers who prioritize quality and sustainability. From premium organic honey to carefully selected hops, each component is chosen to maintain the authenticity and integrity of our Tej.

How long does it take to produce a bottle?

Traditionally, Tej takes one to six months to ferment, but at Heritage Winery, our temperature-controlled fermentation tanks allow us to refine the process and produce a bottle in under a month while maintaining authenticity. This modern approach ensures consistency, quality, and the rich flavors true to Ethiopian honey wine.

What makes your wine unique?

Our wines are crafted using traditional Ethiopian techniques combined with modern practices, resulting in a distinct flavor profile that honors heritage and innovation.

How do you select the flavors or profiles for your wines?

Tej is all about the honey! Our motto, "The treasure lies in the beehive," reflects our belief that the honey itself is the foundation of every bottle. We carefully select and craft our wines to let the unique flavors and characteristics of the honey shine through.

Are your wines sustainably produced?

Yes, sustainability is at the heart of our process. We prioritize eco-friendly sourcing, reduce waste, and support local communities.

How do you ensure quality control?

We have a rigorous quality assurance process at every stage, from ingredient selection to final packaging, ensuring consistent excellence in every bottle.

Can you customize your production for events or bulk orders?

Yes, we offer customization options for events, weddings, and bulk orders. However, please note that label approvals may take time, so we recommend reaching out early to discuss your needs and timeline. Contact us for more details about tailored solutions.

What happens if there’s an issue with my order?

If there’s any issue with your order, please contact our support team at info@theheritagewinery.com We’ll work with you to resolve it promptly.

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