Hotchkiss, Colorado
With the rugged desert landscape as our backdrop, we strive to produce the finest beef while respecting the land and the animals we raise.
About Us
Premium, Sustainable Beef from the Heart of Hotchkiss, Colorado
At SMR Livestock, we believe that quality beef starts with healthy, well-cared-for cattle raised in the right environment. Nestled in the high desert of Hotchkiss, Colorado, our cattle are a unique cross of Angus and Corriente breeds, combining the best of both worlds: the hardy, sustainable qualities of the Corriente with the premium meat quality of Angus.
Optimal Aging Time
Optimal Aging Time
Two weeks is ideal for aging beef, maximizing tenderness and flavor without excessive drying. Over-aging can cause spoilage or unwanted flavors. Our USDA-certified butcher carefully monitors the process, ensuring premium results. This method guarantees high-quality beef with superior texture, taste, and safety, making every bite exceptionally tender and flavorful.Enhanced Flavor
Enhanced Flavor
Aging intensifies beef’s flavor by reducing moisture, concentrating its natural taste. A two-week period develops a rich, robust profile without becoming overly gamey. This careful process ensures a well-balanced, full-bodied flavor that enhances every meal, providing customers with high-quality beef that’s both delicious and satisfying. .Natural Juiciness
Natural Juiciness
Though aging causes moisture loss, it also helps meat retain juiciness. The two-week process allows muscle fibers to hold moisture, keeping the beef succulent when cooked. This balance ensures tenderness and juiciness, producing consistently delicious meat that enhances every dish with a flavorful, juicy, and satisfying bite.Improved Tenderness
Improved Tenderness
Aging beef allows natural enzymes to break down muscle fibers, making the meat more tender. A two-week aging period strikes the right balance—softening tough cuts without compromising texture. This process enhances the eating experience by ensuring each bite is consistently tender, flavorful, and enjoyable. Aged For Two Weeks
Why do we age our beef for this long?
Aging beef for two weeks is a crucial process that enhances the flavor and tenderness of the meat. Here’s why SMR Livestock LLC chooses to age beef for this optimal period:
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About the Corriente Breed
The Corriente breed has a rich history that traces back to the early Spanish colonial days in the Americas. Originating in Spain, the Corriente cattle were brought to the Americas by Spanish settlers in the 16th century, where they adapted to the harsh conditions of the Southwest United States, Mexico, and South America. Known for their hardiness, agility, and adaptability, Corriente cattle thrive in hot, arid environments, making them well-suited for the high desert regions like those in Colorado. Their compact size and ability to graze on sparse forage made them a practical choice for ranchers in rugged landscapes. Over time, the Corriente breed became prized not only for their endurance but also for their lean, flavorful beef, which is often noted for its tenderness and unique taste. Today, the breed continues to be a symbol of resilience and sustainability in livestock farming, combining traditional Spanish heritage with modern ranching practices.