Please enable JS and disable any ad blocker Here’s how to experience both.From Guadalajara to Amatitán Jalisco’s tequila producers don’t just make great spirits—they preserve its rich cultural heritage Tequila is the fastest growing spirits category in the United States, and a truly artisanal agricultural spirit with a unique Mexican terroir and a culture all its own. According to the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States' (DISCUS) 2025 Annual Economic Briefing sales of the popular agave-based spirit grew by 2 percent from 2023 to 2024 leaving the rest of the bottles in the dust Yet few of us know how tequila is produced and the rich heritage behind it where tequila is made (and mariachi-style music was born) provides an excellent peek into the centuries of tradition behind the process Although tequila’s official denomination of origin commenced in 1974 Jalisco records hundreds of years of production the fermented juice of the maguey (agave) plant was consumed by Aztecs and Nahuas as early as 250 A.D Start learning in Guadalajara the capital of the Western state of Jalisco “Tequila is the number one ambassador of Mexico,” says Daniela Villasuso of Mijenta Tequila a popular brand from the highlands of Jalisco “It embodies everything that has to do with how we live.” Here Ease into things with a cantarito—a juicy mix of citrus and tequila topped with soda and served in a natural clay jar rimmed with chili salt is the fastest-growing spirits category in the United States.Photograph by Ernst Haas Hulton Archive/Getty ImagesCantaritos are made with citrus and tequila topped with soda and served in a natural clay jar rimmed with chili salt.Photograph by Simon McGill Getty ImagesAgronomy and terroirSoon after exiting the traffic of Guadalajara proper you’ll start to see mesmerizing rows of blue agave plants stretching in every direction This distinct profile starts in the agave fields The minerality of the valley terroir comes not just from the volcanic soil but also the volcanic water source from their own deep well “We only use agave and water,” says Pérez Ontiveros (Bats and agaves make tequila possible—and they're both at risk) “in the spring between the second and third year of the plant’s life then wait six years to have the best quality agaves.” live at the foot of the dormant Volcán de Tequila the soil contains lots of ash packed with minerals like iodine the warm climate makes the agaves grow and sweeten quicker and the tequila tends to show earthy peppery notes with a lot of pyrazine—the aroma compound that brings grassy Agave is cooked in ovens at low temperatures to best bring out the flavors.Photograph by Mario Martinez Getty ImagesKeep driving west towards Tequila where the highland elevations climb to over 6,000 feet iron-rich soil with its higher acidity work with cooler temperatures to stress the agave viscous vanilla notes typical of the Los Altos terroir Sergio Mendoza, Co-Founder of Don Fulano Tequila agrees that the most critical element in the terroir and artisanship in traditional tequila productions comes from the soil Through crop rotation and minimal agrochemical use we nurture our land and handpick only selected mature agave plants for harvest Maturity is paramount to quality.” Like the folks at Laelia testing brix (sucrose) level and “selecting plant by plant for optimum maturity.” The timing for cutting each agave piña directly impacts the end result. Steffin Oghene, a vice president at El Tequileño explains that “if you taste a green banana [versus] a banana with black spots one is very green and fresh in flavor and lacks complexity The banana with black spots represents mature agave You need mature agave not only for its natural sugar content but more for the complex flavor profile that it will provide to artisanal tequila.” A Jose Cuervo tequila shop in the center of Tequila Mexico.Photograph by Anne-Emmanuelle Thion Figarophoto/ReduxAncestral methodsThe last task in the field is the work of the jimador who harvests and trims the agaves using the same hand-sharpened tool created for the job three centuries ago according to the specifications of the maestro says the jimador’s job is critical to the flavors and aromas in the final product We need to remove the most possible green parts of the penca our jima height is smaller than normal."  After roasting low and slow for up to 36 hours in brick ovens Laelia’s cooked agaves get crushed with two-ton mechanized tahona wheels made from volcanic stone the “bagasse" (fibers) get separated by hand so that when they transfer the juice to the open-top stainless and wooden tanks the bubbly natural fermentation process begins without any additional yeast necessary it’s on to Laelia’s traditional copper stills for double distillation then rectification to bring the spirit to the proper proof Laelia Blanco then rests for at least 14 days in American oak barrels while Laelia Reposado vacations for four-to-six months in toasty French barrels before bottling has been named one of "North America's 50 Best Bars."Photograph by CESAR RODRIGUEZ The New York Times/ReduxWhere to try itIn Guadalajara: attracts tourists and locals for an iconic agave-fueled experience El Gallo Altanero offers a more modern, cocktail bar cantina style. Stop into this “North America’s 50 Best Bars” for a sexy Nerd out on a selection of over 400 agave spirits at Axno while you relax on the terrace Don’t miss the sprawling Mercado San Juan de Dios where local talabarteros (leather artisans) sell traditional belts adorned with agave fiber designs and worn by cowboys Have a drink at La Capilla where everyone downs the traditional Batanga cocktail of cola and tequila with a squeeze of lime in a salted glass stirred with the knife they cut the lime with In El Arenal, on the way to Tequila, visit Tequila Cascahuín for a lowland example of artisanal production techniques like the tahona (wheel grinder) method In Tequila town, visit Tequila Arette Distillery for an intimate boutique distillery tour. The Tequila Fortaleza tour shows off the ancestral method step by step Don Fulano offers the viewpoint of a fifth-generation agave farming family and El Tequileño emphasizes heritage and traditional process for some pre-Hispanic historical perspective grass-covered example of the Teuchitlan circular step pyramids (An intro to mezcal, the centuries-old Mexican spirit that's having a moment) words: would define drinking in the first quarter of the 21st century From 2000 until the present, tequila sales have grown over 300 percent, accounting for some $6.7 billion in revenue in 2024, according to the Distilled Spirit Council Though there are plenty of upstart independents (not to mention celebrities) that would completely change the industry this century as well To help determine the most important and influential tequilas of the past 25 years I spoke with multiple experts in the category ranging from tequila bar owners and restaurateurs to fellow journalists and authors to longtime tequila collectors and connoisseurs One final point to note: Important does not necessarily mean “tastes good”; likewise some of the best liquid ever produced is not inherently “important” to anyone outside of the cognoscenti that drinks it After the commercial failure of 1998’s Teporocho Tequila brand founder Arturo Lomeli went back to the drawing board to try and figure out how to create a tequila that would differentiate itself from the rest of the market The result was a high-quality spirit in a ceramic bottle so beautiful Lomeli hoped people would reuse them as candle holders or vases it retailed for an also-unheard-of $100 a bottle Essentially selling it door-to-door for over a decade it would take until 2013 or so for luxury bars “The brand itself has elevated the perception of tequila and Mexican culture as luxury and worth splurging on,” says Bay-Area-based Ernesto Hernandez a longtime tequila collector and connoisseur less agave-forward flavor profile as being a gateway for many newbies to the category “Though purists accuse it of being artificially sweetened it made consumers comfortable paying so much for tequila,” he says it was the distillery’s 2001 switch to a diffuser — a large industrial machine able to extract agave sugars much faster usually with less flavor) than traditional methods — that would ultimately change the legendary flavor profile for the worse noticed a change in the blanco profile,” says Hernandez an anti-diffuser movement would spring up among connoisseurs that still prevails today (Herradura reportedly quit using a diffuser by 2010) Herradura (and Brown-Forman) forged a return to its previous glory with the introduction of a 92-proof Blanco the González family would persevere and continue to release incredible tequila using agave sourced from the region and old-school methods “How many great tequilas are still produced by the families that started them?” asks Suro-Piñera “Most brands are now in the hands of transnationals.” Patrón opened its own distillery in Jalisco with just two tahona wheels and one roller mill; it eventually became the massive Hacienda Patrón By 2006 the brand was selling 1 million cases of Patrón Silver per year and began attracting attention from celebrities and early adopters — the first high-end tequila to truly become mainstream Patrón was sold to Bacardi for $5.1 billion and Patrón calls itself the world’s best-selling super-premium tequila (whatever that means) and has become one of the most recognizable and beloved “quality” tequila brands across the world showed the transition from Denton to Beam wouldn’t be as rocky as initially feared Fortaleza really began to pick up steam around this time,” says collector Hernandez He believes this was the first lot that truly turned tequila geeks onto the idea of there being slightly different flavor profiles from lot to lot “Since then most everyone started turning [Fortaleza] around to see which lot a bottle may be,” he adds The trend of lot-labeling and -seeking has spread to other brands as well to celebrate the 70th anniversary of Don Felipe Camarena’s founding of the La Alteña Distillery in 1937 the current distiller and Don Felipe’s grandson aged for seven years in ex-bourbon barrels released in a batch of only 12,042 bottles and believed to have the highest Brix content of any tequila ever released thanks to the then shocking $129.99 retail price it languished on shelves before being heavily discounted in many stores it is considered arguably the greatest extra añejo of all time and moves for over $1,000 per bottle Carlos Camarena is regarded as a distilling legend “It marked the end of tequila as a relegated spirit on shelves and demonstrates how hard it was for a great tequila to get traction not too long ago,” says Hernandez “It was the last ‘overlooked’ yet memorable release in tequila.” Tequila is inherently a product of the land but it would take until the aughts for a brand to be released based on organic farming methods Adolfo Murillo acquired his family’s farmland in Agua Negra and decided to begin growing agave; local farmers said that was impossible in the rugged But Murillo believed by using organic methods it might work and started planting blue Tequilana agaves in 1993 The results were incredible: high sugar content agaves that distilleries were eager to buy Murillo had proudly started his own 100 percent organic agave tequila brand Yet another Carlos Camarena project (along with co-founder Mexican restaurateur Tomas Estes) Ocho was the first brand to truly cite the importance of terroir in tequila via its “Single Estate” releases each batch of Tequila Ocho was produced from agave entirely sourced from one specific “rancho,” each with its own unique aromas and flavor profiles Today many other brands specify the location from where they harvested their agave but cristalino tequila has undoubtedly been one of the biggest innovations of the 21st century And the idea of fully aged yet colorless tequila — a blend of extra-añejos and reposados filtered via activated carbon — began in 2008 with this Proximo Spirits release just about every major brand has a cristalino even if the Consejo Regulador del Tequila (CRT) continues to refuse to recognize the category Tequila’s place in the pop culture firmament was radically accelerated when an imaginary TV character named Turtle decided to start hawking a brand called Avión as a side hustle. The show was HBO’s “Entourage,” and when the tequila appeared in a 2010 many viewers surely assumed it was a made-up brand — no different from the movies that protagonist Vinny Chase (Adrian Grenier) starred in As “Entourage” fans began to encounter Avión on retail shelves and back bars — with a slogan of “Yes Pernod Ricard bought a majority stake in Avión for $100 million The first tequila brand devoted to intentional experimentation in the category with Felipe Camarena (Carlo’s brother FWIW) acting as according to tequila collector and connoisseur Eduardo Urena “the mad scientist” at his Destilería El Pandillo until 2016; Hernandez thinks it changed the game in terms of how tequila distilleries look at water usage in particular “If your bottle is only 40 percent alcohol the rest of its contents are mostly water,” he says and well water ratios to confirm the big impact water choice has on tequila.” Today, high-proof blancos are de rigueur but this was the release that gave legitimacy to high-ABV tequila as it was bottled at the highest legal U.S Another brand from the La Alteña Distillery this was a unique collaboration between Carlos Camarena and the American father-and-son master distillers Miles and Marko Karakasevic of California’s Charbay Distillery It was an immediate cult hit “and the industry hasn’t looked back,” says Hernandez the brand you’ll most frequently hear “called” by customers if you sit at any given bar for the night Dozens of other celebrity tequilas have followed making many wonder if you are truly a celebrity if you don’t have your own tequila The son of an industry legend, master distiller Germán González would go his own way in 2014 and release one of the first extra añejos to play around with barrel aging. Aged for five years in brandy, sherry, and Scotch barrels — as opposed to the more typical ex-bourbon barrels — Tears of Llorona would become a cult hit it might very well have been the first release to be dubbed the “Pappy of tequila.” “We kind of initially brought it out thinking that it was going to be mostly sold to bars and restaurants as a kind of cheers at the end of the night to celebrate making it through an eight-hour bartending shift or whatever,” says Billy Erickson Sauza’s son and Fortaleza’s sales and marketing manager it created an entire (unofficial) sub-category with dozens of brands releasing still strength bottlings over the last decade Cascahuín would hardly seem influential this century And yet it would take until recently for this brand to take off in the States Tequila enthusiasts now go crazy for the traditionally made tequilas of Salvador Rosales Torres and his family knowing that a NOM 1123 on the back of any bottle is a guarantee of quality “Their blanco is the best basic tequila on the market — insane value,” says Lampert “[And] the distillery is behind many of the new projects that industry nerds go crazy for.” Those would include Cascahuín 11 Brix a blend of three different fermentation types a blanco blend highlighting unique cooking who wanted to know what tequila might have tasted like in the past He would achieve that through an agave roasting technique not used in the industry for a century with piñas cooked underground in earthen pits Fermented via ambient yeast and finally distilled (at Cascahuín no less) with copper and pine wood alembic stills and first released in 2016 slightly smoky blanco unlike any on the modern market “It was completely the opposite of the way the industry is going with mass production,” says Suro-Piñera portions of the industry have begun to move toward more “rustic” releases like Patrón Ahumado Still mostly unknown to all but the most savvy U.S drinkers — and only pursued by connoisseurs and collectors recently upon small distribution to the country starting in 2019 — Caballito Cerrero’s influence is predominantly legal and philosophical Santa Rita Fabrica’s Jimenez family decided to stop dealing with them (and stop paying them) altogether even though their wonderful spirits fit all of the parameters of tequila instead opting for “destilado de agave,” beginning in 2018 Not only has this given an added mystique to the cult brand it’s shown other small producers in both the tequila and mezcal world a different way of doing things tastable way that the world of agave spirits in Jalisco With tequila's consumption speedily on the rise, buyers are increasingly investigating the spirit's nuance. Whether it's simply digging into what tequila's made from the world of agave alcohol offers exciting new drinking opportunities tequila is also attracting the health conscious crowd tequila's attracting converts from other booze styles citing there's less of a hangover than other spirits any amount of alcohol consumption is detrimental to health with its carcinogenic risks outweighing benefits drinking tequila doesn't equate to a healthy experience; there's harm regardless of the spirit its distinct composition does come with certain qualities worth noting Spirits that spend time in the barrel come satiated with compounds called congeners which research suggests intensify hangovers Not to mention, tequila's bright and likable palate eases breezy consumption. The spirit's enjoyable neat, and shines in simple cocktails like the ranch water, an easy margarita swap that consists of only water in addition to a few science-backed effects there's a subjective cleanliness associated with the liquor Boosted by all the circulating health claims — as well as cocktail recipes like the skinny margarita — there's a cultural element that's intertwined with tequila's health benefits there's not much nutritional supremacy to the agave spirit over vodka or gin there's a psychological rush to viewing the spirit as less harmful The Lowlands tequila may fly under the radar in the United States but it just dominated the global spirits scene Brad Japhe is a freelance journalist specializing in travel His work appears in all major media markets across the United States He is viewed as an expert in the beer and spirits space frequently appearing as a host on various media platforms He has interviewed a diverse array of talent ranging from international superstar Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson a premium hamburger over a prime cut of steak His favorite breed of dog is the Siberian Husky and he suffers from an irrational Food & Wine / Destilería Orendain / London Spirits Competition ABV: 40%Provenance: Tequila Orendain de Jalisco (NOM 1110) family-owned distillery on the outskirts of Tequila; Lowlands or “El Valle”Production Notes: 100% blue Weber agave roller mill-extracted and double distilled in stainless steel pots with copper coilsMaturation: Aged eight months in medium-toasted American White Oak ex-bourbon barrelsMSRP: $40 Log in to comment on videos and join in on the fun Watch the live stream of Fox News and full episodes Reduce eye strain and focus on the content that matters The 'Jumanji' star continues his 'Guac on the Rock' campaign for the fifth year in a row Sazón Tacos & Tequila is connected to the Oakfire restaurant in Somers seen inside his Oakfire restaurant in Somers is opening Sazón Tacos & Tequila in the same building will host a “Sneak Peek Party” for Cinco de Mayo They will open their doors for the event from 1-7 p.m The restaurant is attached to Oakfire Pizza & Italian and is owned and operated by Oakfire restaurants founder and owner David Scotney Their new venue was designed to have “a taco bar feel,” Scotney said “It’s our first time focusing on Mexican-style food which gets back to my heritage,” said Scotney Scotney was inspired by the phrase “One in the family who has the sazón,” which refers to the chef in the family who has the “gift of flavor.” “The inspiration and origin of the name come from my mother,” Scotney said “She grew up in Mexico and introduced me to our culture’s food at an early age.” The restaurant aims for what Scotney calls “a fully immersive guest experience,” with details such as a mural of Mexican desert flowers painted by artist Kevin Garbacz vibrant colors throughout the restaurant and bar plants native to Mexico — as well as freshly pressed tortillas made to order using an authentic Mexican tortilla press “My intention with Sazón is to honor my culture and share the gift of flavor with the Kenosha community,” Scotney said The restaurant will “celebrate authentic Mexican food with an elevated twist.” which he calls “a laid-back cantina,” is on the northern end of the Oakfire building and required extensive renovations “We had to build a second kitchen for this space.” Monday’s Sazón Tacos & Tequila Tasting Party will feature previews of a few menu items for purchase along with full bar offerings and a “Favorite Taco” voting contest For more information about Sazón Tacos & Tequila and Monday’s event Subscribe to our Daily Headlines newsletter Email notifications are only sent once a day Piggly Wiggly has been a neighborhood staple for groceries on Kenosha’s north side An early morning fire has destroyed the former Uncle Mike's Highway Pub building Two Pleasant Prairie women were charged May 2 in connection to a traffic death in the village The 54-year-old man whose body was recovered from a drainage culvert in the 10300 block of County Highway S appears to have died from exposure… Get up-to-the-minute news sent straight to your device Account processing issue - the email address may already exist Invalid password or account does not exist Submitting this form below will send a message to your email with a link to change your password An email message containing instructions on how to reset your password has been sent to the email address listed on your account The award-winning tequila will now offer 375mL and 1.75L sizes of its core expressions 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- El Mayor Tequila – the award-winning premium tequila from the Gonzalez family – is offering new 375mL and 1.75L sizes of its Blanco and Reposado expressions to better meet consumers' usage needs and preferences the 1.75L size of El Mayor Blanco and El Mayor Reposado will be available at a minimum suggested retail price of $44.99 The 375mL bottles are expected to be available later this year at a minimum suggested retail price of $14.99 The new SKUs will reflect El Mayor's updated brand packaging which incorporates a new slim bottle and increased label size Distilled and produced at Destiladora Gonzalez Lux in Arandas El Mayor Tequila is made with 100% estate-grown Blue Weber Agave from the valley area of Jalisco El Mayor Tequila Blanco is an unaged clear tequila that offers a crisp golden tequila that was rested in white oak barrels for a minimum of nine months and delivers hints of fruit flavors with vanilla and spice "We know our consumers are using El Mayor in a variety of ways for numerous occasions so extending our size offerings helps to better meet their needs and gives them another way to enjoy our authentic award-winning tequila," said El Mayor Brand Manager Kayleigh Longo El Mayor Tequila Blanco earned Gold medals at the 2024 ASCOT and SIP Awards and El Mayor Tequila Reposado was awarded a Double Gold medal at the 2024 San Francisco World Spirits Competition and a Gold medal at the 2024 SIP Awards El Mayor Tequila Reposado was recently recognized as one of the top 10 tequilas in the world at the 2025 International Wines and Spirits Competition (IWSC) For recipes and more information about El Mayor Tequila, or to find a retailer, visit elmayor.com or follow the brands @elmayortequila on Facebook and Instagram CONTACT:Patrick Barry, BYRNE PR314-540-3865patrick@byrnepr.net  View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/el-mayor-tequila-introduces-additional-bottle-sizes-302446109.html Already have an account? Login a Tequila from Amatitán in the lowlands of Jalisco Laelia takes inspiration from the Mexican orchid it is named after and the pre-Hispanic Derived from fully-mature and sustainably-grown Laelia is crafted to celebrate the origin of the spirit and Amatitán The Laelia portfolio consists of agave-forward tequilas whose notes are nurtured through traditional brick oven slow cooking then distilled in 100% copper pot stills after a Tahona extraction This complex and intensive traditional technique is done by using an old two-ton volcanic stone with the agave fibers rotated gently extracting the natural juices to bring out the agave’s deep and rich flavor characteristics Laelia Blanco is aged 14 days in American Oak barrels The Reposado is aged for 4-6 months in lightly toasted French Oak barrels.  “Coming from a family of fourth generation agave growers we’ve spent many years preserving and ensuring that the quality of our agave is uncompromised,” Fernando Pérez Ontiveros “Laelia is a true passion project and the first chance for our family to craft our own tequila one that brings the land that is central to our family to life Laelia is committed to crafting tequila with deep respect for the land guided by sustainable practices and innovative techniques that help preserve agave and the surrounding environment The agave Laelia sources from Jalisco is overseen by the Casa Natima family and certified by Environmentally Responsible Agave ensuring it is not harvested from deforested areas the distillery implements its own sustainability efforts across its agave cultivation and the use of organic fertilizers to help maintain healthy soil and support long-term land stewardship with a goal towards a net neutral environmental impact Laelia is distilled using 100% renewable energy for natural bio-fuel to produce steam for the boilers and their state-of-the art filtration system which recycles water into steam as well as over 721 solar panels in place at Casa Natima.  The energy from bagasse accounts for 80% of the energy used to produce Laelia with 100% of all agave fibers getting reused throughout the production process including as natural compost and sustainable materials like bio-pallets for shipping Laelia is committed to continue to build on their sustainability efforts and is on track to be able to recycle and reuse all of the mineral-rich spring water in their production ultimately eliminating the need for additional water use by 2030 “We aim to lead the path for what a modern tequila rooted in preserving the craft and tradition of the spirit can be by ensuring to highlight agave in its purest form,” Ontiveros said we’re devoted to pushing the boundaries of tequila innovation by continuing to refine Laelia sustainably using thoughtful innovations to improve the quality and consistency of each bottle and our impact on the land.”  Laelia Tequila Blanco (40% ABV) is available for retail at $59.99 and Laelia Tequila Reposado (40% ABV) is available at $69.99 in select retailers in California and New York as well as nationally online via laeliatequila.com.  Read more: Bandero Tequila Expands into Three New Markets Distilled at Casa Natima, and fully owned and operated by a 100% Mexican-led team, Laelia Tequila is founded by Fernando Pérez Ontiveros whose family are fourth generation agave growers. The brand, owned under NOM 1607, offers both Blanco and Reposado expressions. For more information, visit https://laeliatequila.com/ and El Mayor Tequila Reposado was awarded a Double Gold medal at the 2024 San Francisco World Spirits Competition and a Gold medal at the 2024 SIP Awards. In addition For recipes and more information about El Mayor Tequila, or to find a retailer, visit elmayor.com or follow the brands @elmayortequila on Facebook and Instagram CONTACT:Patrick Barry, BYRNE PR314-540-3865[email protected]  El Mayor Tequila – the award-winning premium tequila from the Gonzalez family – is getting a new look Starting this month and continuing throughout.. Beers, Wines and Spirits Retail Beverages New Products & Services Do not sell or share my personal information: Cinco de Mayo is more than a reason to raise a glass—it’s a moment to celebrate Mexican culture, heritage, and craftsmanship. This year, elevate your celebration with a drink that’s as colorful as the occasion itself. Enter the Paleta Perfecta, a cocktail that mixes seasonal flavor and deep cultural roots into one unforgettable sip Blending freshly squeezed fruit juices with premium tequila and topped with a handcrafted mini paleta the Paleta Perfecta is designed to bring festive energy to any gathering Behind the vibrant layers and flavor-forward ingredients lies a rich backstory courtesy of Tequila Corralejo Built on a base of Tequila Corralejo Reposado aged agave notes with tart citrus and the natural sweetness of fresh juice Its most Instagrammable feature—a mini paleta (Latin American-style popsicle) perched inside—adds both flair and a fun flavor infusion as it melts into the drink The final result is refreshing and layered citrus acidity to cut through the sweetness and the mellow depth of reposado tequila anchoring every sip At the core of the Paleta Perfecta is Tequila Corralejo a brand whose story dates back over 250 years not Jalisco—a distinction that lends their tequilas a uniquely bold character Crafted from 100% estate-grown blue weber agave Tequila Corralejo is produced using age-old techniques passed through generations The spirit is distilled at Hacienda Corralejo but it’s also the birthplace of Don Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla a revolutionary figure in Mexico’s fight for independence That historic setting adds a layer of meaning to every bottle The Corralejo Reposado used in the Paleta Perfecta is aged in American oak barrels for four months and a hint of baking spice—all of which pair effortlessly with citrus and tropical fruit flavors Even the bottle itself reflects a commitment to heritage Each glass vessel is blown and labeled on-site at the hacienda underscoring the brand’s dedication to detail and craft It’s a tequila that doesn’t just taste good—it tells a story The Tajín-rimmed highball glass sets the stage with a kick of salt and spice and reposado tequila creates a refreshing base with natural sweetness and citrusy brightness and a playful nod to Mexican street snacks Choose a flavor that complements or contrasts the fruit juice used—lime paletas offer a tart zing taking on new notes and adding to the overall enjoyment then serve over ice with paletas and garnishes added just before guests arrive The Paleta Perfecta is more than a Cinco de Mayo cocktail—it’s a cultural celebration in a glass It ties together tradition and playfulness And with Tequila Corralejo at the heart of the recipe it connects every sip to a legacy built over centuries Whether you’re hosting a rooftop gathering or just looking for a new way to celebrate the holiday at home all while honoring the craftsmanship of authentic Mexican tequila Find out more about Tequila Corralejo and explore the full range of tequilas And when it comes time to toast on May 5th do it with something that reflects the occasion’s richness—from its roots in history to the modern joy it brings to the table Input your search keywords and press Enter On Cinco de Mayo, folks ... whether they are Hispanic or not ... break out their sombreros and double down on Mexican food while they guzzle cerveza fria and tequila It's just like how everybody becomes Irish and orders whiskey on St On Cinco de Mayo, folks gather together to celebrate tequila ... and some battle that happened a long time ago in Mexico. Seriously, the day commemorates the battle of Pueblo during which Mexican forces ran off the French Kind of like Presidents Day here which is really just an excuse to close the banks and have mattress sales Only America goes nuts with the Cinco de Mayo partying party today with a clear conscience knowing that it's actually (kinda) good for you Here are a few other things tequila lovers should know: First of all, don't look like a tourist - learn how to select a tequila. Second, you can make your own but buying it ready made will get you drinking a lot sooner Nope. It's made from the Agave plant. It looks sorta cact-ussy but it's actually a succulent and only the heart is used for tequila. Fun fact: In Latin, agave means illustrious, admirable, and noble A few of the things a certain amount of tequila will quite likely make you feel that you are Other side effects may include feeling sexy you probably don't really sing and dance as well as tequila may lead you to believe I'm 50/50 on this one, I like it with and without "training wheels". It's really a matter of personal taste but, whether you do or not, you should at least know who did it first and why. For an El Paso spin on your tequila, try El Perro Grande On Cinco de Mayo, folks ... whether they are Hispanic or not ... break out their sombreros and double down on Mexican food while they guzzle cerveza fria and tequila. It's like how everybody becomes Irish and orders whiskey on St. Patrick's day but with better food.\nRead More On Cinco de Mayo, folks ... whether they are Hispanic or not ... break out their sombreros and double down on Mexican food while they guzzle cerveza fria and tequila On Cinco de Mayo, folks gather together to celebrate tequila ... and some battle that happened a long time ago in Mexico. Seriously, the day commemorates the battle of Pueblo during which Mexican forces ran off the French First of all, don't look like a tourist - learn how to select a tequila. Second, you can make your own Nope. It's made from the Agave plant. It looks sorta cact-ussy but it's actually a succulent and only the heart is used for tequila. Fun fact: In Latin, agave means illustrious, admirable, and noble I'm 50/50 on this one, I like it with and without "training wheels". It's really a matter of personal taste but, whether you do or not, you should at least know who did it first and why. For an El Paso spin on your tequila, try El Perro Grande ShareSaveCommentBETAThis is a BETA experience. opt-out hereLifestyleSpiritsThe Best Tequilas For Sipping, According To Bartenders And Beverage DirectorsByEmily Price Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights Emily writes about what’s in your glass and why it matters.Follow AuthorMay 02 08:00am EDTShareSaveCommentTwo men clanging glasses of alcoholic beverage together while a great tequila deserves to be savored: slow sipping tequila opens up an entirely different—and far better—experience with the spirit and agave experts about their favorite tequilas for sipping Here's what they recommend—and why these bottles deserve your full attention A Jimador (person who works on the agave plant) cuts an agave plant to extract the pineapple used to .. (Photo by Ulises RUIZ / AFP) (Photo by ULISES RUIZ/AFP via Getty Images) “When choosing to sip on tequila rather than making a cocktail with it you’re making the conscious effort of wanting to taste the process of tequila distillation,” says Nicolette "Nikki" Bonkowski Bar Lead at Whiskey Neat in Fort Lauderdale finding a good sipping tequila means starting with quality: “You’ll want to seek out qualities that include 100% agave and additive free.” and full of toasted agave sweetness—so much so that "you won’t need or want to add anything to it." They’re the purest expression of agave—the soul of tequila in its most honest form," he says Among his favorites are Lalo Tequila and Tequila Deferente “delivers brightness and elegance with each sip," while Deferente captures the beauty of highland agave In other words: if you're new to sipping tequila Landscape of planting of agave plants to produce tequila While blancos show the raw beauty of agave more layered experience—without masking the spirit's soul Reposado means "rested" in Spanish and these tequilas are aged in oak barrels for anywhere from two months to one year vegetal notes of the agave and adds subtle layers of vanilla and sometimes light oak without overpowering the spirit’s natural character meaning "aged," is barrel-aged for one to three years developing a deeper color and richer flavors like toffee recommends Tierra de Ensueño Single Barrel Reposado (Wheated Bourbon Cask) for sipping describing it as “balanced sipping tequila with apple "Tierra de Ensueño has a buttery mouthfeel with a warm baking spice finish I enjoy this tequila in a glass with a large ice cube." Assistant General Manager at Lady Jane in Denver it is slightly higher proof than most tequilas on the market but higher proof doesn't equate to more burn,” he explains “The slightly higher proof allows more nuance and flavor to be present and experienced while sipping this tequila smells of butterscotch and faint tobacco and tastes like spiced caramel.” If you're looking for something to impress even the toughest critics compares Fortaleza Anejo to the "Pappy Van Winkle" of tequila: hard to find "It offers a great balance of Fortaleza’s agave spirit and barrel influence," he says with driving flavors like “Werther’s Caramels Beverage Manager at Old Pueblo Cantina in Chicago champions Fortaleza Reposado for its incredible texture and universal appeal “There’s a subtle note of sweet spice that balances the savory quality of the cooked agave and a nice almost oily texture to add some interest to the glass If you’re looking for hidden treasures that sip beautifully without the heavy price tag noting that it’s all about balance: “They’re not trying to hide the tequila behind secondary notes from oak barrels; they are simply using the six months of aging to soften the vegetable essence of their original product.” Bonus: it’s a woman-owned suggests keeping Herradura Anejo Ultra chilled in the freezer for a smooth sipping experience and toasted almond which makes it perfect for sipping," he says bartender and beverage manager at C&S Oyster Bar in Atlanta praising not only its clean flavor but the fact that it’s woman-owned and additive-free—a meaningful combination for today’s conscientious drinkers Blur bottles of spirits and liquor on bar counter For those who like their spirits with a little story (and a lot of aging) Fuenteseca offers some of the finest sipping tequilas on the planet swears by the Fuenteseca Reserva Extra Anejo 21 Year appreciating its complexity: “I enjoy the varying niche notes due to the way it was aged both the barrels and in two different climates which gives it a unique flavor profile.” For something a little more approachable (but no less extraordinary) Oscar Ramirez of The Hideaway in Beverly Hills recommends the Fuenteseca Reserva 7 Year "you can taste how much care went into it It's truly a tequila made for sipping Groom holds in his hand a glass of tequila indoors Stylish man's hand with a ring on the little .. Additional favorites from experts include Don Fulano Blanco praised by Amber Bruce of The Keefer Bar for its richness and creamy texture despite a slightly higher proof calling Don Fulano "a standout sipping tequila with rich full-bodied depth and no additives," layered with notes of "agave Tequila Ocho Reposado also earns a spot on the list for those who want a softer puts it: “Tequila Ocho Reposado is a standout sipping tequila because it highlights the true essence of agave while layering in subtle oak aging owner and bar manager at Mayahuel in Queens calls it “easy and smooth to sip and gives a pleasant chile heat that’s not overwhelming," noting its mild smokiness adds a unique character to the glass celebrate with a truly great tequila: one that showcases pure agave flavor Whether you choose a bright blanco like Lalo or Don Fulano a rich reposado like Tierra de Ensueño or Wild Common one thing is clear: great tequila deserves more than salt and lime you realize tequila isn’t just a drink—it’s an experience Streetz 94.5 and Rolling Out Magazine hosted the annual Tacos and Tequila Festival at Piedmont Park and culture for a Cinco de Mayo celebration that brought Atlanta together Atlanta’s Piedmont Park transformed into a vibrant celebration of culture and community as Streetz 94.5 and Rolling Out Magazine hosted the annual Tacos and Tequila Festival festival goers experienced a day full of flavor Hosted by Streetz 94.5’s very own Jigi Deniro the event was a highlight of Cinco de Mayo weekend as attendees enjoyed a wide range of taco options and tequila selections The event was open to guests aged 21 and over and attracted visitors from across Atlanta and neighboring cities An All-Day Celebration of Flavor and Music the festival welcomed attendees to indulge in a curated selection of food and drink options Multiple food vendors served up a wide range of tacos including traditional carne asada Some featured unique toppings like mango slaw bringing bold and diverse flavors to the park guests sampled everything from smooth blanco and aged reposado to spicy margaritas and creative tequila cocktails and attendees took full advantage of the drink tents and pop-up bars located throughout the park Whether dancing near the main DJ booth or lounging on the grass with tacos in hand attendees were clearly enjoying every minute of the experience kept the crowd entertained and engaged throughout the event Her energy matched the tempo of the music and the crowd’s excitement and hyped up every transition between DJs and activities Her presence reminded everyone that this was not just a food festival It was a cultural moment curated by Atlanta’s own Streetz 94.5 a station known for supporting community and culture across the city One of the best parts of the event was the weather The skies remained mostly sunny for the majority of the afternoon with temperatures hovering in the high 60s to low 70s A soft breeze made for ideal festival conditions and attendees came prepared with picnic blankets everyone agreed that Piedmont Park was the perfect backdrop and plenty of open space made it easy to explore the festival layout or find a cozy spot to relax and enjoy the atmosphere The festival also gave space to local businesses and independent vendors guests visited tents and booths featuring everything from handmade crafts and branded merchandise to gourmet desserts and infused condiments This focus on supporting local businesses added depth to the experience The festival was not just about food and drinks There were also several giveaways happening throughout the day These giveaways added an element of surprise and fun to the event giving guests even more reasons to stay engaged from beginning to end The Tacos and Tequila Festival represented everything that Cinco de Mayo celebrations in Atlanta should be It honored cultural traditions while creating space for community joy It provided entertainment while encouraging people to celebrate responsibly It delivered amazing food and drinks while spotlighting local voices What made the event so special was the people From couples enjoying a day date to groups of friends turning up together everyone was present with good vibes and positive intentions It was clear that the goal was not just to party but to celebrate life Looking Ahead with Streetz 94.5 and Rolling Out With the success of this year’s Tacos and Tequila Festival Streetz 94.5 and Rolling Out Magazine have once again proven their ability to host culturally rich high-impact events that bring people together attendees can look forward to even more moments that blend entertainment with culture and purpose follow Streetz 94.5 for updates on upcoming festivals And check out Rolling Out Magazine for exclusive recaps and website in this browser for the next time I comment     It’s a clarion call, a long blast from a ram’s horn, and a summons to action. It reminds the listeners of the power of community, and for Greg Sobol, it’s a reason to celebrate that community. The tekiah is a blast from the shofar in Jewish ceremonies, and it’s also the name of Sobol’s brand of spirits, starting with Tekiah tequila and pays homage” to both sides of his identity — as a Jewish man from West Bloomfield but also as the son of a Jewish Mexican mother whose family has deep ties in Mexico Although the basic process of tequila distillation from roasted agave isn’t against kosher laws there are restrictions on what type of vessel tequila may be aged in Certain kinds of wine barrels may not follow kosher requirements so Sobol uses American white oak for the reposado aging Many larger-scale tequila producers add sugar and colorings to speed along the traditionally slow process of agave distilling Sobol is committed to keeping his spirits additive-free Sobol works with Destiladora de Tequila Marava a small family-owned distillery in Michoacán one of the five states in Mexico that are legally permitted to call their products tequila The deep valley well water and volcanic soil there lend a clear and almost effervescent minerality to the tequila “This isn’t a spring break tequila,” Sobol says “a tequila that people who don’t drink tequila will enjoy.” In his journey to find his ideal tequila Sobol says he must have tasted more than 50 different brands so it gives it a really unique flavor profile Both the blanco and reposado tequilas have a citrusy and floral note that comes from the many fruit trees growing near the agave.The reposado has an additional spiced toffee sweetness from its aging in oak barrels Because his mother was born and raised in Mexico he finds deep connections with his extended family and new friends there “I’m doing it to do something great for them and for the tequila producers,” hesays to honor “the history and the heritage they have with it finding those good things andbinding us together.” This story originally appeared in the May 2025 issue of Hour Detroit magazine. To read more, pick up a copy of Hour Detroit at a local retail outlet. Our digital edition will be available on May 5 You must be 21 or over to enter this website then you're not old enough to read Breaking Bourbon Classification: Straight Bourbon Finished in Tequila Casks Distillery: Sourced from an undisclosed Kentucky distillery(ies) Age: NAS (Press release states a blend of 7 and 14 year old bourbons) Official Website Press Release Flan | Golden Raisin | Mango | Honey dew | Orange bitters Light nutmeg | Touch of cinnamon | Vanilla pudding | Honey | Lime zest Dry oak | Sugarcane | Black currant | Dash of black pepper | Short 11 is a tequila-finished bourbon that seems engineered to be approachable above all else The jury is still out on whether bourbon and tequila work well together but that doesn’t stop producers from trying Perhaps much of it is due to the steady rise in tequila’s popularity (and sales) and bourbon producers hope to ride the wave This year is already shaping up to feature the most tequila-finished bourbons yet.Blood Oath No 11 opens with a dessert-like nose filled with sugary fruits It is by far the whiskey's best aspect reminiscent of what you’d find in an Old Fashioned cocktail but it is also very un-bourbon-like in composition.The palate offers light nutmeg and cinnamon on its onset The short finish is the whiskey’s simplest part Blood Oath constantly mixes it up every year and is one of the brand’s hallmark traits It also means consistency and iteration are non-existent 11 is an approachable pour and that seems to be by design 11 offers a taste of it instead of being walloped by it The whiskey’s flavors are light and delicate This results in a sip that lacks punch and strives to be an easy sipper it's a much less polarizing tequila finished bourbon than we typically get 11 is a 51,000 bottle release of which 1,400 were held back for a future Trilogy release Cinco de Mayo is right around the corner and if you’re looking to elevate your celebration with some serious flavor and a side of star power Pantalones Organic Tequila has just the answer Co-founded by Matthew and Camila McConaughey the brand is serving up a trio of festive cocktails across select restaurants nationwide making it easier than ever to toast the holiday with a glass full of vibrant While Cinco de Mayo is often associated with lively parties, street tacos, and mariachi-fueled fun, the team behind Pantalones is leaning into something a little more crafted—without losing the punch. Their tequila which is USDA certified organic and made with 100% blue weber agave is the foundation for a range of cocktails designed to taste as good as they look From the energizing Green Jeans margarita available at Bonefish Grill to the chilled-out Prickly Pear Sloshie at Lazy Dog these drinks deliver bold character and crisp citrus-forward refreshment that’s ideal for spring sipping Whether you’re celebrating at a restaurant these Pantalones cocktails bring a premium twist to a festive favorite Let’s start with the one getting the most buzz: the “Green Jeans” cocktail Available exclusively at participating Bonefish Grill locations on Cinco de Mayo this cocktail blends Pantalones Organic Tequila with orange liqueur The result is a refreshing and slightly earthy margarita with just enough herbal edge to make you do a double take May 5—guests can enjoy the Green Jeans cocktail for just $5 It’s a limited-time offer that brings high-quality ingredients and thoughtful mixology into a casual setting offering something more sophisticated than your average house margarita without the steep price tag The addition of matcha isn’t just a gimmick either complementing the bright citrus notes and the smooth finish of the tequila It’s a nod to wellness trends with a party-ready twist—fitting for a holiday that invites a little indulgence If you’re in the mood for traditional Mexican fare with an upscale twist Rosa Mexicano has teamed up with Pantalones to offer something special guests can score a complimentary order of tacos with the purchase of Pantalones’ “Organic Margarita.” It’s a delicious two-for-one deal that brings together fresh flavors and the kind of food pairing that never fails The Organic Margarita here keeps things classic: Pantalones Organic Tequila paired with citrus and organic agave nectar It’s a no-fuss cocktail with clean lines and a bright finish—everything you want from a well-made marg encouraging guests to slow down and enjoy both their drink and their meal in equal measure It’s this type of experiential pairing that shows how Pantalones isn’t just about selling tequila—it’s about creating moments that feel thoughtful and celebratory The Organic Margarita is as straightforward as it is refreshing and when paired with Rosa Mexicano’s elevated take on street food classics Lazy Dog is delivering a completely different vibe—think frozen and ready to cool you off after a sun-soaked afternoon Their “Prickly Pear Sloshie” features Pantalones Organic Reposado Tequila and a blend of housemade agave nectar with a sweet and sour kick Reposado tequila brings subtle notes of oak and vanilla into the mix grounding the bright fruit and citrus flavors in something a bit richer The prickly pear adds a punch of color and a smooth jammy flavor profile that feels just right for early May It’s playful and tropical without tipping into overly sweet territory—a frozen cocktail with a grown-up touch This drink pairs well with Lazy Dog’s comfort-food-meets-casual-dining approach and it’s a great reminder that not all Cinco de Mayo cocktails have to be traditional to be worth sipping it’s the unexpected spins that keep things interesting Even if you’re not near a participating restaurant Pantalones Organic Tequila is available in a growing number of bars and retailers across the U.S So if you want to recreate any of these cocktails at home the base spirit is easy to find—and just as easy to love What sets Pantalones apart is its dedication to clean organic production and a refined agave-forward flavor that works in both classic and experimental cocktail builds Whether you’re using the Blanco for a crisp margarita Pantalones is making sure there’s a drink—and a vibe—for everyone With a lineup of cocktails that spans herbal the brand is proving that tequila deserves a place in more than just your standard margarita mix For more information on these limited-time cocktails and where to find Pantalones Organic Tequila near you, visit www.pantalonestequila.com Buy This Booze words: Over almost 10 years of tasting and recommending tequilas at VinePair, we’ve watched the category grow and evolve, ultimately becoming one of the best-selling and most popular spirits in the U.S And can distillers and agave growers find the delicate balance between supply and demand All of which makes the record number of samples we received for this roundup all the more surprising and encouraging And while overall consumption trends and post-pandemic corrections remain up in the air this year not only marked the largest but also strongest field of samples we’ve ever considered It also highlighted one clear reality: Tequila is evolving Case in point: In 2020, we received just one brand and sample that wasn’t bottled at the category’s minimum 40 percent ABV. This year we lost track of the number of expressions that exceeded that figure, whether produced as “still-strength” releases or tequilas bottled somewhere between 40 and 48 percent ABV The upshot for those products (and drinkers) is more flavor and a more diverse and interesting category overall it flies in the face of the greater forces and trends that have propelled tequila in recent years like cristalino and rosado bottlings that seemed aimed at bringing more consumers into the fold rather than offering more for engaged aficionados Tasting through all of this year’s submissions proved to be an enlightening experience Whittling the vast number down to a select collection of favorites was a tough assignment but with much deliberation and consideration here are VinePair’s 30 best tequilas for 2025 Every year, VinePair conducts dozens of tastings for our “Buy This Booze” roundups highlighting the best products across the world’s most popular wine and spirits categories VinePair’s tasting team and editorial staff sample thousands of bottles annually This ensures we have a close eye on what’s new and exciting it also ensures we have the context needed to distinguish the simply good from the truly remarkable whether from a quality or value-for-money perspectives — or both Ultimately, our mission is to offer a clear, reliable source of information for drinkers, providing an overview applicable to day-to-day buying and drinking. Learn more about VinePair’s tastings and reviews department here We conduct tastings as our readers would: with full awareness of the producer and all samples were poured in Glencairn glasses and given five minutes to breathe before tasting while appearance did not factor into the equation unless there was a notable flaw or irregularity In order to provide our readers with the most comprehensive and thoroughly tested list of the best tequilas to buy and PR firms working on their behalf to send samples for consideration These bottles were submitted free of charge — producers didn’t pay to submit nor did VinePair pay for the products All were requested with the clear understanding that submission does not guarantee inclusion in the final list Not only would such an agreement contradict our editorial ethics and samples policy it simply wouldn’t be possible to include everything we received we tasted 178 new submissions and also retasted around a dozen other bottles that were sent to VinePair over the prior 12 months we assigned a score to each product on a 100-point scale based on the quality and intensity of its aromas We then reviewed all scores and compiled an editorially driven list that meets our criteria of 30 best tequilas to buy right now It’s important to note that these are not the 30 highest-scoring tequilas we tasted during this exercise this list showcases the best bottles across every price and for every scenario It’s increasingly hard to find any tequila retailing for $25 or less these days it transitions to full-on agave and peppery spice on the palate the agave for this highland tequila was cooked in stone ovens and fermented in wooden and steel vats prior to copper and stainless steel distillation A rich core of cooked agave runs throughout and pickly brine notes providing texture and color Cimarrón offers a thoughtfully made blanco at an exceptionally affordable price But we instead opted to include the brand’s reposado because the profile of agave and its funky savory base distillate far outshine the influence of oak This is always welcome in the reposado and añejo categories (and beyond) where those techniques are often employed to mask imperfections Apple is a note that typifies a lot of tequilas and it presents itself in myriad forms on that spectrum: peel along with supporting mineral aromas and vibrant pepper undertones across its nose and palate That profile makes this a great selection for highballs and Margaritas while the price bolsters its selection as a cocktail staple A brand-new offering from Heaven Hill’s Lunazul brand this reposado arrives at 45 percent ABV with a prominent pepperiness And if you were to mix it in cocktails — which you absolutely should — a complex considered Paloma would be the first order of business The agave and base distillate sing in this reposado with just a kiss of oak adding subtle sweetness and complexity to the high-quality blanco that first entered the barrel Imagine a freshly juiced slushy of watermelon and pineapple Add some herbaceous and mineral-forward aromas to that along with an intense palate packed with cooked it represents the exact experience of pouring this blanco into a glass and enjoying its aromas and flavors With the word “Elevación” in its name, it might come as some surprise that this is a valley tequila. Its profile is green, herbaceous, mineral-rich, and will appeal to anyone who loves the pyrazines of a Cabernet Sauvignon, Cab Franc, or, more obscurely, Carménère There’s a roasted agave sweetness on the palate that balances everything out and makes every sip compelling This recent blanco introduction to the brand’s lineup arrives at 45 percent ABV That figure doesn’t appear to pursue some trend or aim to hit some arbitrary numerical value; instead it serves to make the spirit shine with its added alcohol delivering more depth of flavor and complexity than the brand’s plata expression and most blancos And — honestly — this tequila charms with its slightly kitschy packaging B-Corp-certified tequila brand that engages in a number of positive initiatives cooked agave notes and subtle vanilla open the nose of the brand’s blanco It soon shifts gears into fresh green vegetal territory on the palate Inhaling the aromas of Tequila Ocho’s stunning plata expression recalls all of the best characteristics of a properly made and nuanced Margarita: it’s briny and vegetal; vibrant green vegetables and citrus fruit come to the fore on the nose; and there’s a mineral umami complexity on the palate that also signals thoughtful production and quality ingredients It may not be priced for well drinks at a bar but home bartenders can pick it up for cocktails — and your cocktail game will be infinitely improved by doing so Attractive berry notes combine with white flower aromas on the nose of this blanco instantly drawing you in and demanding a quick follow-up sip with a suggestion of vegetal pepperiness soon following with white pepper bitterness on the finish keeping things complex and offering a distinctive finish this blanco arrives with a wonderful intensity of aromas and flavors and open-air fermentation make this an extremely expressive and characterful blanco — one you can sip or happily mix in cocktails Start with the classics; follow up with proprietary experimentation Not quite as green or savory as some other highland expressions — leaning more into berry and citrus notes — its aromatic profile leans fruity An ‘IYKYK’ brand for agave heads ArteNOM not only offers exceptional tequilas but also standalone spirits that compete at the highest level on the overall agave stage And while most drinkers will not have the same luxury we had of tasting the entire lineup side by side rest assured that if you see anything from this label we recommend this stunning and singular expression — it’ll wow with its perfumed copper pot stills — this blanco ticks all the boxes one might hope for from a “proper” production standpoint on paper It positively leaps out of the glass as soon as it’s poured soon taking center stage in the tasting arena Peppery and vegetal flavors prove a commanding presence on the palate Lagrimas del Valle adopts a site- and time-specific approach to tequila-making with each blanco and reposado release tied to a specific field and year We generally skew blanco in our appreciation for the brand’s expressions but this most recent 46-percent-ABV reposado blew us away: Minty pickle and luscious agave notes shine from the base blanco; meanwhile a subtle cedar sweetness from oak adds depth and complexity highlighting a grapefruit pith and briny complexity that forms the backbone for everything From the lowland valleys (or “valles”) of Jalisco this tahona-crushed blanco is an amazing ambassador for slowing things down and basking in the pronounced juicy berry aromas and flavors that can result from doing all the above in this region Violet aromas make their presence fully known it surely owes some of its intensity and definition to its 48-percent-ABV bottling strength Inspired by ancient but trendy winemaking techniques this 45-percent-ABV blanco employs a five-ton concrete egg for production or both (it’s not fully clear from informational materials provided by the brand) What is abundant and striking is the clarity of cooked agave that traverses nose to palate and this blanco’s undisputed credentials as an exceptional sipping spirit That might be the best way to describe the happenings at Lalo Tequila Launched with just one expression — a blanco that’s won over agave aficionados and fashionistas alike — this high-proof limited-edition expression builds upon that legacy without ceding any clout (or flavor) to oak it stays true to Lalo’s singular core while building upon one of the most exciting (and growing) legacies in modern distilled spirits “Agave is the star of the show,” notes the brand of this reposado nor give a more succinct reason for its inclusion on the list Agave plus oak equaling something that’s better than the sum of those parts is a simple equation on paper but one that so few brands achieve — the aging vessel so often covering up inferior base distillate This is an inviting 43-percent-ABV reposado that charms with floral and sweet agave aromas The palate leans peppery and jalapeño-rich this blanco lives up to its “Espíritu Fuerte” billing for tequila at large does its pronounced aromatic and flavor profile pineapple and habanero aromas meet a subtle floral accent A bright and intense palate then pronounces notes of pepper while agave and fruit occupy the middle of the tongue it’s a more than premium spirit for cocktails but we see it as a clear sipping blanco — a convincing one at that “Organic” — a word prominently featured on this añejo’s label — might seem like a buzz term in other spirit categories But tequila as an alcoholic beverage is more like wine than whiskey; base ingredients matter more here with all the implied nutritional and disease complications therefore multiplied responsible farming has led to quality base ingredients and a spirit that noses and tastes more vibrant than many of its competitors mineral-rich and sweet off the bat with a delectable fruity core It’s pricey but it will challenge any other sipping spirit on your shelf — and it might well win “Roble fino,” roughly meaning “fine oak” in English, is a very accurate way to describe this añejo and the components that shape its profile. Aged for 18 months in ex-bourbon casks, it then spends five months finishing in sherry-seasoned single malt Scotch barrels. That sherry influence shines from first sniff onto the finish imbuing the spirit with decadent dried fruit notes and perfumed complexity helping to cut through its density and depth of flavor with a slight alcoholic heat and an overall sense of urgency (in the best possible way) Deft barrel aging is the name of the game and key to the success of this Sazerac-owned brand and special-edition line Calling out the aging casks in the name suggests it should offer something unique agave should still be the star of the show But this expression delivers — floral and fruity overall with just a hint of bourbon-barrel sweetness beautiful clear cube to enjoy its full potential we’ve celebrated aged expressions for not taking on too much character from their maturation vessels Don Fulano’s Imperial Extra Añejo flips that idea on its head vibrant and enticing agave is the star of the show but it’s matched — almost equally — by French Limousin oak and oloroso sherry casks you have to think of this as a completely different beast to blanco it starts to make so much sense and you’ll be completely swept away by it Much like the prior-featured Volteo Reposado ceramic packaging of this release might suggest style over substance and could easily elicit a skeptical first impression could its lofty price tag — especially within the realm of tequila But there’s simply no denying its quality and attractive appeal and floral notes with considered sweetness and luxurious depth this raisiny extra añejo matures for a total five years — two years longer than is standard or required for the style the final spirit maintains a distinctive presence of vegetal-spiced agave from beginning to finish The influence of the different barrels mainly comes into play on the palate While some of the other extra añejos on this list arrive at well past the legal minimum this expression arrives in bottle at 36 months highlighting dazzling dried apricot notes that we didn’t encounter in any other expression With that comes an enticing energy and acidity — a duality akin to the world’s great sweet wines and reminiscent of the most exceptional Cognacs on the market While any expression of tequila can be considered “smooth,” many believe that extra añejo tequilas — which are barrel-aged for a minimum of three years — are particularly smooth The popularity of tequila has exploded in recent years, and as the spirit has evolved, so, too, has the number of brands on the market. In addition to a number of other brands, Don Julio, Tequila Ocho, Patrón Tequila, Jose Cuervo, and El Jimador are among the best-selling tequilas. (Check out the full list of the top 10 best-selling tequilas in the world.) Any tequila on this list can be the best tequila for shots if you really put your mind to it While we at VinePair prefer our tequila mixed into cocktails or served neat opt for a quality tequila around the $25 price point Often labeled as “blanco” or “plata,” silver tequila is typically unaged and is clear as a result Many tout silver tequila as agave’s most undiluted expression and the best measure of a brand’s range often labeled as “joven” or “oro,” is also typically unaged though can include a blend of unaged and aged tequilas gold tequilas get their color from the addition of caramel colorings and other flavors *Image retrieved from César Salas via stock.adobe.com Cinco de Mayo is a wonderful excuse to get re-acquainted with tequila or if the two of you are already intimately familiar I wasn't a tequila guy through my 20s (that's on you but growing from cheap plastic bottles to properly crafted spirits changed that While I'm still a relative newcomer to the field working at FTW has given me the chance to expand my scope greatly -- particularly to brands and types I probably wouldn't have tried in the past Let's talk about the good (and a little bit about the mediocre) I drank over the last year and see if we can't help you figure out your boozing plans for the holiday CHECK OUT OUR CINCO DE MAYO TEQUILA GUIDE, PART 1 Looking for a non-traditional May 5 and want THC drinks and gummies instead? We've got you covered buttery-good blanco: Lost ExplorerThe smell off the top is warm It's delightful with just a little spicy sweetness that floats in toward the end and while that may dull the flavor a bit it's also how I drink tequila so The combination is exceptionally smooth and sweet some butter and vanilla and lots of light dessert flavors you get just a little bit of wintergreen and cinnamon There's just a little bit of spice that plays into that sweetness and weaves the braid of a proper spirit It's a lovely combination and much smoother and more complex than I'd expect from a $45 tequila It may not be as robust as some of the heavyweights in its field but it gets 90 percent of the way there at a third -- or less -- of the price It's immensely sippable with no mixer needed It's sweet and tangy and has effectively zero burn there's only some minor warmth and a spirit you could drink all night long If you're looking for something dumb and wonderful: Chica-Chida peanut butter tequilaFrom March's A- review: My first impression after cracking the bottle is.. You're immediately overwhelmed by a creamy Reese's Cup style peanut butter aroma that fills the air salty-spicy vibe you may not clock as tequila on first sniff you know when health foods try to make a peanut butter cup analog but it's a bunch of ingredients that don't quite live up to the original This 64 proof shot went down with barely an indication this is liquor it sticks a bit to the roof of your mouth after it's gone At least as easy as it is to rip a shot of Fireball This is Danny McBride's tequila. Like all things Danny McBride, it's slightly obnoxious, overindulgent and of undeniable quality. From March's B+ blanco review: This is a bit spicier and more agave forward than the reposado out of the bottle almost creamy vanilla that's backed with just a minor spice That cinnamon/wintergreen agave flavor kicks in toward the end to give you something to linger on along with a lasting sweetness that sends you off happy I'm not getting the ethanol and sting of other celebrity tequilas Where it shines is the price point; at less than $40 per bottle you're getting a blanco that offers a little extra complexity It's similar to Lalo -- backed by a moderately known name (from different worlds) and offering a slightly buttery tequila at a good price It might not bring as much to the table as a bottle of Gran Centenario clean organic tequila: Tres Agaves blancoIt pours clean and clear over ice Moving the glass leaves a ring of slow-dripping spirit to gently cascade back toward the drink leaving the unmistakable footprint of tequila to linger in your nostrils That agave is front and center before cooling off and giving way to the hallmark sweet and spice of a good tequila some pepper and even a little bit of mint -- back to wintergreen maybe cohesive dram that's easy to sip on its own but you still get the moments toward the end that separate a good tequila from a cheap one but the aftertaste is pleasant -- a balance of sweet and spice that leaves you coming back for more this is a spirit punching above its weight class though not something I'm particularly interested in presenting a clean tequila that brings bright flavors without getting too far from the basics fruitier blanco: MijentaA pour over ice unleashes a wave of crisp agave instead leaning into more of a briny citrus Which sounds a little strange but is ultimately appealing Instead of sweet vanilla you get a heavier (but not hot) dose of pepper and citrus that backs it That makes it a bit thicker than other blancos a sipper that takes a little longer between breaks as you process it If you're looking for a little spice and some chewy agave Underneath the pepper and agave are hints of butter and vanilla that reward you for sitting with it a while It may be a bit of a departure from the other blancos on this list Let's start with the most mature member of the group Reposados are an easy sell for me because I'm down for pretty much anything barrel-aged This pours with a lighter color than expected but with enough stickiness down the side of the glass to remind you you're dealing with a high proof liquor A little sweet and with a little heat toward the end There's an almost movie theater popcorn feel to it Not with a burn but with some oaky vanilla and some cinnamon and clove and agave Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band all the way through There's a little salt and swirling currents of sweet botanical flavors but there's also a lingering harshness that doesn't sit right with me I spilled a bit of this and licked the affected drop off my finger A pour into a rocks glass makes me feel like that was a mirage Now I'm getting agave and citrus with a little vanilla and pepper I'm working through a lot of thoughts before even taking a proper sip the sip itself has a bit of salt to it but no nuts with cinnamon and pepper like you're making a Cincinnati-style chili (though Underneath that is the gentle current of cooked agave and vanilla they create a delightful push-and-pull between sugar and spice at the end of each sip There's an earthy quality to that agave I may have mistaken for nuts up front it's one element in a braid of flavor that cuts a wide path from the glass to your gut but the finish is a long stretch of cinnamon upon which other flavors have built small dwellings but I also don't like seltzers all that much Here's what I thought of the tequila soda and why it shouldn't scare you away It smells like the artificial black cherry of my childhood -- the kind of off-brand local-grocery-store soda that also brought us classics like Mountain Thunder and Dr but for someone with a deep sense of nostalgia and a dire inability to escape a terminal case of poor brain The first sip is much more tequila forward than I expected Superbird only clocks in at five percent alcohol but unlike High Noon's vodka sodas or tequila sodas the spirit here is front and center rather than hiding behind bubbles and fruit flavor The black cherry kicks in like a shot of syrup added after the fact ringing a simple cocktail with a little sweetness and just enough tart to cut into that tilting the balance back from bland to something a bit more interesting It's more of a tequila water than a seltzer or soda which is less up my alley but not a problem You smell the cherry more than you taste it and it's more of a La Croix idea of fruit than anything you'd get from actual soda (and not the soda water at the base of the cocktail) The end result is a drier canned cocktail that leans heavily into the spirit rather than trying to cover it the Superbird tequila sunrise goes in the other direction -- but juicy flavors that can be a bit overpowering familiar and poundable cocktail: Suerte MargaritasIt pours with a little more effervescence than you'd expect from a margarita not a bug in the world of canned cocktails The first whiff off the top is buttery tequila blanco the first sip leans in a different direction which gives the impression of a fresh made cocktail That tartness fights with the agave nectar a bit releasing a sweet-and-sour braid that serves as the barge that floats the Suerte tequila along a light rush of baked agave and minor hints of spice easy to sip canned cocktail that offers something poundable for someone looking for a quick pre-game drink and a little complexity for someone looking for something to drink over the course of a half hourIt loses a bit of its charm out of the can -- pouring it over ice allows the lime and tequila to shine a bit brighter Sipping from that aluminum is more of a "B" experience But with a little preparation this is an A- cocktail -- not quite elite All 5 Releases News | May 2 I’ll admit it: I have politely turned down offers of tequila for one reason — it made me cry I ended up in tears (and not the good kind) I’ve realized one very important truth: All tequila is not the same; aswith many things Tequila has come a long way from its party-shot reputation “If Jose Cuervo Gold is the only tequila you’ve ever had you’re not drinking tequila,” says Ron Girotti “You’ve definitely missed the boat because there’s so many good flavors and I feel like that kind of gives people a bad taste I don’t drink tequila because I had that 20 years ago.” Girotti credits Patrón Tequila with creating a more palatable tequila that brought consumers out of their comfort zone and into the world of tequila imbibers have access to a wide range of tequila expressions from small-batch family- run distilleries to operations that are crafting award-winning spirits a complex production process and several diverse styles as varied as fine wine or whiskey more people are stepping into the world of sipping tequilas and “flight” experiences to discover the nuances of this Mexican spirit “Don’t be afraid to try some new things and to experiment because there’s a lot of really good stuff out there and a lot of good smaller brands,” Girotti says “And nothing really tastes like the Jose Cuervo Gold That almost doesn’t even count as tequila in this world anymore.” Whether you’re looking for a sipping experience or the perfect base for a cocktail a brief tutorial on how tequila is made and the differences between styles will not only elevate your next tequila experience but might also avoid tears or other potential pitfalls Tequila is a distilled spirit made from the blue agave plant specifically “agave tequilana,” which thrives in the volcanic soils of Mexico’s Jalisco region The process starts with jimadors harvesting mature agave plants known as the “piña,” is extracted and baked to convert its starches into fermentable sugars the piñas are crushed to release their sweet juice called “aguamiel.” Traditionally a heavy stone wheel pulled by a donkey; though most distilleries have gone modern The juice is fermented using yeast which converts the sugars into alcohol; it’s then distilled twice to produce a clear while others are aged in oak barrels (or other vessels) to develop different flavors and characteristics each with its own profile and aging process: Blanco (or Silver) – Often considered the purest expression of agave blanco tequila is unaged or aged for less than two months It’s a clean and crisp spirit with vegetal and peppery notes making it an excellent choice for cocktails like margaritas,palomas Reposado — Reposado means “rested” and refers to tequila aged for at least two months — but less than a year — in oak barrels the agave flavor remains fresh but the oak imbues notes of vanilla Girotti notes that reposados are a great middle-ground for newcomers to the world of sipping tequila They’re perfect for sipping neat or on the rocks or creating a twist on classics like a Manhattan or an Old Fashioned Extra Añejo — This category includes tequila aged for more than three years These tequilas are often compared to high-end cognacs or bourbons with rich Cristalino — A newer style that is technically an añejo or extra añejo but has been filtered to remove the color picked up from the oak barrels The result is a clear tequila with the complex flavor of an aged spirit but the appearance of a blanco vegetal flavors hold up well when mixed with citrus and other ingredients making them ideal for classics like margaritas and tequila sunrises You want to look for a blanco that is smooth and crisp but with enough agave character to shine through in a mixed drink Some cocktail enthusiasts prefer using a reposado for a richer flavor The slight barrel aging adds a layer of complexity that can complement the other elements in the drink without overpowering them extra añejos or heavily aged tequilas are usually wasted in a cocktail — like whiskey or bourbon they’re meant to be enjoyed neat or with a splash of water to open up the flavors bar manager at Tavern on the Square in Lionshead has convinced customers to create their favorite whiskey cocktail with tequila; he also makes a killer tequila dessert cocktail He’s quick to extol the spirit’s virtues including the fact that it’s a probiotic (contrary to popular belief it’s not a stimulant — it’s actually a depressant like all other alcoholic spirits) Tavern’s Mountain High Margarita has been a bestseller for years this quintessential tequila classic keeps folks coming back Beckman credits the popularity with good tequila — of course — and the purity of the house made sour mix They make three and a half gallons at a time; sometimes they’re making it daily “It’s the best margarita in town,” Beckman boasts Speaking of neat: When looking for a tequila to sip you want to prioritize flavor complexity and smoothness High-quality tequilas will be made from 100% blue agave without additives like sugar or flavoring agents A good reposado or añejo is often the best place to start for sipping offering a balance between the raw agave flavors of a blanco and the deeper particularly their reposado finished in burgundy barrels which delivers unique chocolate-covered cherry notes This expression demonstrates how aging and barrel choices can create complex and surprising flavor profiles in tequila Casa Dragones recently released Reposado Mizunara the first tequila rested exclusively in new Mizunara casks a rare oak native to Japan traditionally used for aging Japanese whiskies This tequila balances the minerality of agave with the light notes of Japanese oak for a refined The best way to find what you like is to try a few and Girotti is happy to take customers on a journey “The first question I usually ask is what do you usually like; what’s your usual flavor profile?” Giotti says “If they say they usually like reposados I’ll tell them about a few reposados they might not know about You have to feel out the customer and just kind of see where they’re at then take them on that track I just try and get people slightly out of their comfort zone a little bit.” though both tequila and mezcal are made from agave they are not the same: They differ in production methods The most significant difference between tequila and mezcal is in the way the agave is cooked the piñas are roasted in underground pits lined with stones giving the spirit its signature smoky flavor smoky notes can be much more intense than tequila Mezcal is also made from a variety of agave species This can result in a broader spectrum of flavors depending on the agave used and the region it’s grown in the smoky profile might be overwhelming at first the complexities of mezcal can be even more intriguing than tequila for those ready to travel that path Mezcal is also popular in cocktails like the Oaxacan Old Fashioned or mezcal margaritas Whether you’re a tequila newcomer or an aficionado the current explosion of high-quality options means there’s always something new to discover fresh flavors of a good blanco to the rich tequila provides a brave new world for newbies — and veteran tequila lovers — to explore try something a bit wild…like the tequila offered up from an unidentified horn at Tu Casa I’m enjoying the opportunity to explore a new world of craft and tradition I’m sipping a Casa Dragones añejo — the rich buttery smooth taste reminds me of a lighter version of my beloved whiskey — with no tears involved Easter events in the Vail Valley Church services An Easter tradition that’s been going on for over 30 years is the Vail Mountain Easter Sunrise Service bright and early on Sunday morning Après Madness Championship Party at Avanti F&B The NCAA College Basketball Tournament may have crowned a champion on Monday but Friday is when you can congratulate this year’s winner of Vail’s own form of competition:.. Après at The Amp For its third year in a row Ford Amphitheater has proven that it’s not just a summer venue the Swedish pop band that took the world by storm in the 1970s and early 1980s with its hits “Waterloo,” “Take a Chance on Me” and “Dancing Queen,” will virtually.. Project Funway Get ready to be wowed by the fashions at Project Funway which returns to Dobson Arena again this Saturday One of the most creative fundraisers in the Vail Valley Margaritas will be flowing at many local establishments while many savor the flavors of the day While many a marg is made with tequila SouthCoast resident Jonathan Pogash, also known as The Cocktail Guru "Tequila can vary between soft and delicate tends to immediately hit you in the face with smoke." The two spirits are actually very closely related. Tequila is a type of mezcal but not all fingers are thumbs." Know what I mean "All Mezcal is derived from the agave plant a native Mexican succulent closely related to the aloe plant," Pogash said "There are over 200 species of agave plants and about two dozen of them can be used for the production of mezcal," he said only the Blue Weber agave species can be used (if the tequila is 100 percent agave – make sure to read your labels)." "The key is to find the types that you like and compare them to others," Pogash said "Then you can play around and come up with variations on some classic drinks most notably the user-friendly margarita." Pogash shared his love of researching drinks and spirits and discovered an interesting piece of information "The margarita actually has an earlier known relative called the daisy a popular style of mixed drinks in the late 19th century," he said Try his recipe for a fresh take on the daisy cocktail simple syrupMETHOD: Shake well with ice and strain into martini glass.GARNISH: dehydrated lime wheel The Cocktail Guru, Jonathan Pogash, shares a delicious drink recipe for Cinco de Mayo using the smokey spirit mezcal.\nRead More SouthCoast resident Jonathan Pogash, also known as The Cocktail Guru, shared his knowledge on the smokey spirit. "Tequila can vary between soft and delicate, brute and astringent, balanced and oaky," he said. "Mezcal, on the other hand, tends to immediately hit you in the face with smoke." The two spirits are actually very closely related. Tequila is a type of mezcal, but not all mezcal is tequila. Sort of like "all thumbs are fingers, but not all fingers are thumbs." Know what I mean? "All Mezcal is derived from the agave plant, a native Mexican succulent closely related to the aloe plant," Pogash said. "There are over 200 species of agave plants, and about two dozen of them can be used for the production of mezcal," he said. "For tequila, on the other hand, only the Blue Weber agave species can be used (if the tequila is 100 percent agave – make sure to read your labels)." "The key is to find the types that you like and compare them to others," Pogash said. "Then you can play around and come up with variations on some classic drinks, most notably the user-friendly margarita." Pogash shared his love of researching drinks and spirits and discovered an interesting piece of information. "The margarita actually has an earlier known relative called the daisy, a popular style of mixed drinks in the late 19th century," he said. Try his recipe for a fresh take on the daisy cocktail. Cheers! Pomegranate Daisy2 oz. Mezcal3/4 oz. fresh lemon juice3/4 oz. pomegranate juice1/2 oz. simple syrupMETHOD: Shake well with ice and strain into martini glass.GARNISH: dehydrated lime wheel 818 Tequila, the award-winning brand founded by Kendall Jenner, announces its first national sports partnership with NASCAR driver Toni Breidinger. The collaboration marks a new chapter for 818 as the brand steps into the fast-growing world of motorsports and connects with a rising generation of fans, many of them women, who are helping redefine what the sport looks like today. “Toni is a force both on the track and on social media,” said Kendall Jenner, Founder of 818 Tequila. “We are so excited to partner with her for our first national sports partnership.” This partnership celebrates the shared community between Toni and 818 Tequila. Throughout the 2025 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series season, fans will see 818 branding featured on Breidinger’s car and racing gear. “As a tequila lover, 818 Tequila has always been my favorite, so partnering with them for the 2025 season is a dream come true,” said Toni Breidinger. “I am proud to team up with a brand that is unapologetically itself and continues to uplift women.” Breidinger holds the NASCAR record for the most top-ten finishes by a female driver (27) in ARCA, and is the sport’s most followed driver with over 5 million fans online. Copyright © 2010 - 2025 STS Motorsports Inc. All Rights Reserved. Welcome Back!Login to your account below Please enter your username or email address to reset your password. El Cristiano Tequila hosted an exclusive Cinco de Mayo kickoff event on May 3rd at the chic Shore Hotel in Santa Monica Designed to celebrate the spirit of Mexican heritage and craftsmanship and tequila aficionados for an elevated evening of premium tequila Labore doloremque voluptatum blanditiis eligendi placeat min.. Provident et sed voluptate modi quaerat aut repudiandae Iust.. That means its time to celebrate with Mexico's most cherished spirit: tequila Centuries of experience have turned agave into an art form There are the plastic bottles dumped into rotating barrels of margarita mix or ripped as lessons in regret one shot at a time There displays of precisions and wealth expensive enough to be a recurring plot point across the Breaking Bad extended universe Somewhere in the middle lies my sweet spot let's talk about some of the favorite tequilas I've had the chance to drink over the past year A very nice añejo with warm agave and those sweet notes you'd expect from a tequila that got all the way to second grade inside a barrel But there's also a minor spice; a little cinnamon and clove that gets me pretty excited about the whole deal The first sip is extremely mellow up front You're left wondering where the flavor went when one that rushes through cinnamon and sugar and vanilla and maybe even a little wintergreen That all works against a backdrop of agave and oak -- that's the low-key start and the foundation that carries everything along It's a great sipper and undoubtedly unlike anything I've had before At $300ish (I saw it as low as $177 online) it's not cheap by a long shot But it brings an extra layer to your anejo that makes it more than a conversation piece probably not for me -- but if you've got the cash and you love tequila At more than $100 for the sherry oak finished reposado It pours with a pleasant rich amber color that suggests a fair amount of time in the sherry casks advertised on the label It smells floral and fruity with a little bit of cinnamon heat at the end that gives you fair warning you're dealing with a full bodied spirit giving off hints of agave and sweetness before There's a wave of spice and sugar and pepper and cinnamon and It hits the tip of your tongue as a pleasant little tequila and leaves as a complex beast You get some of the oak and the vanilla that comes with it from the barrel it was aged in along with the stone fruits you'd associate with sherry But the main course is an almost chewy roasted agave that brings out spices that range from what you'd find in mulled wine to a sumptuous dessert then at some point it feels like a small tremor rolls across your tongue to introduce that cinnamon It's like it's giving you something to think about at the end of each sip If you're looking for a funky tequila that brings a little lactose vibe to the table: VolteoFirst There's a certain lactose smell wafting off the top that mingles with the agave Like there's a lil' blue cheese olive waiting in the bottom of my cocktail It pours a crystal clear but mostly you notice that smell; agave up front The first sip is incredibly gentle at first That gives way to some very nice flavors; cinnamon which gives it a chance to stick around on your lips That's a bug for bad spirits and a feature for good ones and I'm just now learning this is Dak Prescott's tequila which means nothing but at least makes it a bit more germane to my job writing about the NFL If you're looking for something new from one of the most reliable brands out there: Milagro CristalinoMilagro has long been my go-to fancy-looking Now the distiller is taking a hard turn into one of the more upscale expressions of the spirit There's no harshness here; just some minor spice that lingers toward the end of a sip that needs no chaser you're paying about twice as much per bottle that you would for the silver This is an all-night sipper that distills all the best things about tequila down to a smooth While it lacks some of the complexity of bigger it's still a proper middle ground between good and luxe If you like your tequila with hints of cake batter lip balm: 818 reposado818, famously part of Kendall Jenner's portfolio, makes a pretty great flagship product. The Eight Reserve, adorned with a lovely-if-somewhat-weird ceramic "8" bottle, opened my eyes with floral sweet and spicy flavors The rest of 818's less expensive portfolio understandably fails to hit those heights there are some interesting notes to uncover across the rest of the lineup Here's how the reposado -- unique and sweet -- tastes It smells like roasted agave with a little vanilla and a hint of pepper It holds the cinnamon and vanilla notes of the 8 albeit a bit rougher than the premium expression It runs through a few permutations before ending with that sweet vanilla and just a bit of spice some caramel and some minor agave with a tiny amount of astringent burn there's a lot of lip balm flavors going on here Devil's Reserve is a pretty standard extension from a longstanding brand there's a sweetness that opens each sip before finishing with a bit of pepper -- making it a useful enough sipper but a very interesting mixer The pepper smell is potent the moment you crack the bottle It's about half fresh cut jalapenos and half Limon Flamin' Hot Cheetos just not something I was expecting despite the promise of spice on the bottle Stick your nose in the glass and it gets much milder with a citrus sweetness kicking in toward the end to temper everything The first sip starts off sugary sweet on your tongue you get big cantaloupe flavors and mild agave before a very minor pepper kicks in toward the end It's all very pleasant and none of it entirely jibes with the devil on the label You get sweet and almost creamy fruit up front and a very gentle heat to finish That fulfills Cuervo's promise of a sweet heat The end result is mild and not especially boozy giving you a spirit you can sip throughout the night at least in terms of holding back any astringent burn but the end result is almost a one-step cocktail to itself For a booze called "Devil's Reserve," it's very gentle That makes it a cheat code as a tequila shot and a simple sipper over ice If you're looking for something unique (but a little harsh): Don Ramon Plata PlatinumThe bottle but it's got a minor pastry vibe -- a little sweet a little buttery and just a little fruit filling to tie everything together The first sip is unlike any tequila I've ever had with a little sugar and some modest boozy warmth It's that flip from melon to agave where Plata Platinum loses me bringing back the olfactory memory of a whiff of rubbing alcohol That creates a notable valley in an otherwise interesting drink It's light and has little in the way of burn but the complexity here is maybe one twist too much for me I can honestly say I've never had anything like it clean and a liiiiitle bit dangerous: LaloIt pours crystal clear with a slightly peppery scent Dig deep and you get a little pale fruit in there as well The first sip is smooth and a little basic before a warm agave and cinnamon clocks in to clear it off your palate It's very easy to drink; that warmth is the closest thing you'll get to a burn What Lalo is missing in complexity it makes up for in simple quality so while you may not get a massive rush of flavor Lalo will reward you for being patient and figuring out what's inside A little ice and this goes down dangerously smoothly There's something about Alto Canto that hits differently The tequila from Mexico's mountainous terrain has a lighter The closest I can compare it to is how the soil in Cuba affects their cigars that's a comparison I've gotten to make maybe thrice in my life Let's talk about its best two expressions instead Clean and crisp but with a little bit of that buttery sour undercurrent that was inescapable in the reposado The first sip begins sweet -- slightly creamy and a little vanilla -- and ends floral and a little bitter The agave is a mellowing influence throughout leaving that mild buttery airy feel to linger as a part of the signature taste It feels a little bit like the difference between a typical and a Cuban cigar; a little lighter with a premium charge for the experience it weaves through the sweetness of the blanco to create a smooth but complex tequila that's easy to sip just a little floral bitterness that settles in toward the end The sweetness and the sour seemingly built into Alto Canto is a lovely braid This makes it significantly better than the reposado and assuages my concerns about high altitude tequila A lighter tequila works well with Alto Canto's vibe and tempers the almost lactic current that rings each sip in an interesting and it pours with a crisp clean agave smell and a little earthy There's a stiff sweetness that's inviting and cautious at the same time It transitions to a slighter bitterness than the other two instead replaced by a slight spice that snaps off each sip despite the higher alcohol content (96 proof) citrus and salt that keeps the spirit dry and ups the replay value That makes it an easy fit for a twist of lime There's a lot going on but you don't taste the high proof It's an interesting progression and one that rewards you for sticking with it All 5 Releases Who hasn't heard of José Cuervo? The brand is ubiquitous. But the man? Few know his story. In Tequila Wars: José Cuervo and the Bloody Struggle for the Spirit of Mexico, award-winning journalist Ted Genoways turns his eye on Cuervo himself and chronicles how he transformed a struggling family business into an agave kingdom all while navigating death threats from Pancho Villa and being branded a public enemy of the United States Evan Kleiman: Your book starts out in the tumultuous late 1800s there are political coups and there are two family names that are prominent in the valley of tequila — Cuervo and Sauza Give us some background for these two families and how they gained a foothold in this budding tequila industry and the 1904 World's Fair changed the way Americans drink Ted Genoways: The Cuervo family is really the first to come into the Tequila Valley and make an empire of making the spirit that was then called vino mezcal which is to say a wine made from the mezcal plant They were really the lords of the Tequila Valley for a century before José Cuervo was born But at the same time that he was a child and was learning to make tequila on the neighboring estate was a young man named Cenobio Sauza who was also learning the trade and was starting to build an empire of his own Through the late 19th century and the early 20th century the leaders in the industry were the Cuervo and Sauza families and those brands remain at the top of the industry today the Cuervo and Sauza families gained a foothold in the budding tequila industry Tell me a little about the border between the US and Mexico at this time what the tequila industry recognized is that American drinkers were willing and able to pay a great deal more for their product than Mexicans could So the industry made an effort to try to get their product to the border and to American drinkers the railroad network in Mexico was far behind that in the United States so the first obstacle that they faced was trying to get railroads built and especially to get North-running railroads so that they would be able to reach the border Much of the late 19th century is about José Cuervo and Cenobio Sauza working to lobby the government to build these railroads so that they could move their product north That put them in cooperation at various times as they were sharing this interest and trying to expand their market but it also sometimes put them in competition as they had different ideas about how this should be done This is the beginning of this complicated relationship between the two families José Cuervo takes this new railroad line that's finally built to St Louis to debut his product at the 1904 World's Fair Describe the scene and what was in the bottles that he took with him Would we recognize the tequila that José Cuervo was making in 1904 as the same product that we drink today The tequila that was being made over a century ago when Cuervo first took over his family business would have been transitioning over from in-ground ovens that impart the smoky flavor that we think of as typical of mezcal to using steam ovens that are typical of the tequila industry The difference is that the range of agaves that were used at that time is wider than it is now So I think we would recognize it as tequila but I think it would probably be a bit of a wilder flavor to us something that would seem a bit more raw than what we're accustomed to with the tequilas that are made today But this was the beginning of introducing this product to the American drinker at a place where everything was aiming toward electrifying and modernizing Cuervo was seeing all of these new technologies and also becoming aware of American tastes So the modifications that were happening were partly technological but also partly aiming toward the American palate and figuring out what American consumers would prefer showing the column stills installed by Jesús Flores The vision of modernity and the future it displays and all the different exhibitions to fairgoers is truly another world at that time What was Cuervo's takeaway from his exposure to this kind of modernity when he goes back to Jalisco The main thing that he recognized is that if the industry didn't modernize quickly What he was seeing was machine-made bottles and all of the products and the new technologies that relied on the telegraph and on electricity What he recognized was that they needed to have the railroad built to Tequila right away They needed to have electricity that would be carried on lines that would be erected next to the railroad tracks as they made their way through the valley He recognized that they needed new technology They needed steam-powered equipment that would produce more tequila they needed to be part of the modern world the working class becomes increasingly disgruntled as they see the rich benefit and foreign companies gain contracts in Mexico Can you set the political scene and how Cuervo and his colleagues navigate these shifting tides They recognized that people were disgruntled They recognized that this new technology was also allowing people to move and to communicate better So labor organizers were coming into Tequila and communication was traveling over the wire and newspapers were popping up that were sharing information recognized was that the industry needed to respond It needed to do more for its workers and for the town of Tequila They needed to try to play an active role in stabilizing the politics of the country Cuervo's grand plan was to try to keep Porfirio Díaz in power who had been ruling over the country since the 1870s but to modernize and to liberalize at the level of the state government And he played a very active role in trying to shape who would be the governor and eventually was appointed to be the speaker of the state congress as well So he got directly involved in politics and tried his best to show that there was progress that was perhaps slow and steady but would not cause the disruption that revolution would bring It was during this time of unrest that Cuervo and his colleagues formed a union of tequila makers which is considered to be the first Mexican cartel What was their vision and did it bear any resemblance to the modern cartel I think this was the great revelation of all of the research in this book that Cuervo recognizing that revolution couldn't be avoided and that destruction from years of war meant that that people had factories that had been canonated that the railroad lines that they had built and had gone to such trouble to have built were blown up and the distribution was disrupted The only way they were going to get through it was to all work together was the person who seems to have provided this word to Cuervo It's a German word that describes a kind of collective model creating these vertically integrated monopolies so that you can control all parts of your production and distribution they agreed not to compete with each other and they put all of that on paper and signed it as a shared agreement there was nothing illegal about what they were doing Where things became a little bit more of a gray market is when the US instituted Prohibition and those companies started trying to move their product to the border where they knew that there would be a robust market in people who were going to buy their bottles of tequila and smuggle it across the border They recognized the market opportunity in that It doesn't appear that they did the smuggling themselves but they were certainly supplying the black market that emerged there "I think we might not know the name José Cuervo if not for the institution of Prohibition," says journalist Ted Genoways You write that toward the end of the Civil War José Cuervo was an official enemy of the United States What was the relationship between the US and Mexico at this time the Germans were concerned about the US entering the war and coming in on the side of the Western powers So they approached Mexico about the possibility of entering on the German side and this would keep the US occupied in North America The United States responded by entering the war but also by establishing a list of companies and individuals who were considered to be enemies of the United States Because José Cuervo's nephew was the German consul and because he had another nephew who was running the distillery by then there was great concern that his company was under German influence Especially considering that Cuervo had shown that he was armed during the Mexican Revolution and that he now had access to all of these railroads that they had built and had specifically built those railroads to run toward the border there was a concern that a company like Cuervo could arm revolutionaries and ride them to the border where they would be able to flow across and enter the US and start a war and he was officially declared an enemy of the United States with so much scrutiny around the US/Mexico border and the threat of tariffs lingering over all international goods you are thinking about this moment in US/Mexico history this moment where the US declares Cuervo an enemy of the state and closes the borders to all importation of tequila makes that even more formal by instituting national Prohibition and preventing all alcohol from entering or being produced in the country all that effort did was create a huge market for tequila It created a great deal of revenue for the producers in Mexico so that they were able to rebuild after the revolution And the more that the US built fence and created the Border Patrol and brought customs agents and military to the border the more that just drove up the price of tequila and made it more desirable I think we might not know the name José Cuervo if not for the institution of Prohibition and the whole border apparatus that we built trying to keep his product out of the country Instead of making it something that was blocked and kept out it made it something that was highly coveted as the maker of the best tequila at the time the person and the brand that that everyone was after the most When and how does José Cuervo meet his end there's a great deal of political upheaval was a member of the Mexican Congress in Mexico City and he was stirring up a lot of the trouble that was happening there José Cuervo went to Mexico City to have dinner with his brother to counsel him to be more moderate in his rhetoric Carlos was bedridden for weeks and eventually recovered but José Cuervo died in the days after and the belief is that the target was most likely Carlos that José met his end by arriving in Mexico City and hoping to convince his brother to be more temperate Ted Genoways considers José Cuervo's colorful history from eluding Pancho Villa's death threats to bringing tequila north of the Mexican border Caroline Pardilla serves up 60 recipes for your next batch of margaritas and crushes more than tomatoes for endless variations of salsa Jessica Knurick deciphers fact from fiction in the MAHA agenda blueberries actually have a season and they're ripe for the picking Good Food’s Evan Kleiman delivers local-first missives from our vibrant food community Donate by midnight tomorrow and your $100 becomes $200 for KCRW thanks to a $10,000 match by music legend Moby DOuble dollars Get the latest from KCRW in your inbox 3x a week One of the main drivers of this growth is within the premium and super-premium categories high-quality spirit is a treat you can enjoy without breaking the bank Shopping at Costco for these luxuries also helps your pocketbook. The wholesaler passes its savings on to its customers in its liquor department typically selling its bottles for less than you will find in a liquor store I visited my local warehouse and searched the internet to ascertain availability As a trained sommelier and spirits reviewer I narrowed down the best selections recently available so not all noted options will always be available Prices may vary from state to state depending on liquor laws and taxes The liquor becomes crystal clear and colorless by filtering aged añejo or extra añejo tequila the tequila maintains the attributes that barrel aging gives to the agave-based spirit Don Julio Cristalino has claimed to be the first of its kind since debuting in 2012 The Cristalino ages 18 months in American oak barrels formerly used for bourbon These aromas and flavors meld with the caramelized sweetness of clay oven-roasted agave the 80-proof spirit should not be confused with an un-aged tequila as it has all of the structure and complexity that oak barrel aging gives to alcohol Costco offers shoppers a fantastic price for the 750 milliliter bottle: $55.99 The Camarena family is one of tequila's most well-known and well-respected Don Felipe Camarena is credited with bringing the first agave plants from the lowlands to the highlands of Jalisco in 1937 The area's high elevations and iron-rich soils help produce lighter sweeter agave compared to the mineral-forward are third-generation tequila producers and fifth-generation agave growers Sustainability at the forefront when producing G4 tequila resulting in exceptional liquors that exude authenticity G4 Blanco uses a blend of captured rainwater with natural spring water for distillation Los Altos de Jalisco Weber blue agave plants These agaves grow sustainably alongside citrus which he planted to increase pollinators in the arid agave fields roasts for 22 hours before double distillation in copper pot stills Costco sells the 750 milliliter bottle for around $40 a nice savings over the average price of $55 Allowing every Weber blue agave plant to fully mature before harvest ensures that every Patrón tequila has sweet, floral, agave-forward flavor. Patron does this through traditional production methods while working with a commitment to environmental stewardship and social responsibility to the community. Costco carries Patrón Silver and Reposado it's Gran Patrón Burdeos Añejo that is truly special Gran Patrón Burdeos begins with agave plants that mature for five years in los Altos de Jalisco Patrón hand chops the piña before roasting in small the tequila is double distilled in small-batch copper pot stills It then ages for one year in a mix of American and French oak barrels The spirit is then finished in first-growth Bordeaux barrels imparting a rich amber color while adding additional spicy The limited-edition 80-proof tequila is available in a 750 milliliter numbered crystal decanter for $389.99 a bottle Costco offers the bottle for much less than the $503 average price Reposado fans will be elated to see a bottle of Tequila Ocho at Costco for $43.99. One Reddit user said he would buy a case on the spot for that price Founders Carlos Camarena and Tomas Estes craft tequila that represents the land with a terroir-driven approach The French term terroir comes up when discussing wine It represents every element of how wine grapes grow and the elevation and slope of the land—focusing these elements on how agave grows results in a tequila that tastes like and represents the land Tequila Ocho uses only estate agave from the Jalisco highlands Agave was first planted in the area by Carlos Camarena's great-grandfather A fifth-generation jimador and third-generation tequilero Carlos Camerena utilizes single estate-grown agave for each Ocho selection imparting a sense of place to each bottling Tequila Ocho notes the estate's name on each bottle Ocho's Reposado ages only 8 weeks and 8 days in oak barrels The time is just above the minimum required lending a hint of the amber color and spiced vanilla notes the barrel imparts The minimal aging allows the terroir's characteristics to shine through softening the bite of the 80-proof alcohol without masking the 8-year-old agave's natural sweet El Tesoro de Don Felipe is another brand run under the watchful leadership of master distiller Carlos Camarena The tequila's production occurs at the La Alteña distillery in the Jalisco highlands El Tesoro uses only fully ripened agave in its tequila which can take six to nine years to reach full maturity the distillery practices traditional methods for tequila production including slowly cooking the piña in clay ovens for 48 hours pressing the roasted piña to extract the juices with a two-ton and double-distilling in small copper pots to produce its tequilas The Regulatory Council of Tequila continues to put initiatives in place to make tequila production more sustainable The production volume has increased so significantly in recent years leading to environmental concerns over farming the removal of the biodiversity in and around agave fields depletion of the soil's nutrients from overplanting and a mass amount of waste generated from tequila's production Though sustainability within Jalisco is improving Dulce Vida focuses on its sustainability as much as the quality of its liquor The 100% organic tequila uses no chemicals including the fibrous material from the crushed agave and liquid by-products are turned into compost for the agave fields To create Dulce Vida Blanco, the piñas roast for 20 hours before crushing, fermentation, distillation, and immediate bottling, preserving the freshness of the agave-based spirits. The vibrancy is one of the identifying traits of Dulce Vida, delicious in a Bloody Maria cocktail or a spicy Mexican Mule and green herbs lead to a smooth 80-proof palate The average price of a 750 milliliter bottle is $29 My Costco sells a 1.5L bottle of Dulce Vida Blanco for $35.99 and Dulce Vida's dedication to working sustainably Spying a bottle of Cazcanes No. 7 Añejo tequila on the shelves at Costco is a joy for any aged tequila fan The average price of the 80-proof spirit is $133 forgoing the traditional aging stipulations Cazcanes follows the legal regulations of aging añejo tequila in oak barrels a minimum of one year and no more than three years the taste dictates exactly how long the tequila ages rather than date The name pays homage to the last indigenous people of Mexico before the Spanish conquest; the tequila's production method comes from an ancient 300-year-old moonshine-like recipe The inaugural release of Cazcanes came in 2015 The small production artisanal process includes only mature agave at the height of its sweetness and fermentation occurs with native wild yeast There are no additives or other ingredients The barrels impart warm baking spice flavors of allspice and nutmeg Tears of Llorona is the creation of master distiller Germán González Gorrochotegui Chinaco was the first ultra-premium tequila imported into the United States González grew up watching his father create premium tequila which led him to follow in his father's footsteps This is a tequila to sip slowly contemplating its elegance The artisanal product begins with hand-selected eight-year-old Weber blue Jalisco highlands agave a slow fermentation with native yeast occurs A double distillation in copper pot stills follows The aging is what makes this tequila unique González's father taught him that using French oak barrels instead of the more common American oak would impart less assertive flavors onto the tequila 86-proof spirit with flavors of dried fruits The product debuted in 2014, releasing only 180 cases. Today the annual production of this luxurious liquor is 200-300 cases. Tears of Llorona is expensive, over $317.06, at Costco locations in Washington. Still, as one Reddit user said  A lucky horseshoe found in an agave field in Jalisco would become the symbol for Herradura tequila has been the home of tequila production for over 150 years the brand showcases premium Weber blue agave tequila crafted with an eco-friendly commitment to sustainability where sun-drenched agave grows in mineral-rich volcanic soils Agaves can fully mature faster in the lowlands area due to warmer temperatures Herradura hand-harvests its agaves after six to eight years to produce its ultra añejo tequila After roasting the piñas in traditional ovens for 26 hours and the mosto undergoes a wild yeast fermentation Citrus trees surrounding the distillery help produce the yeast naturally The alcohol then undergoes double distillation before aging in American oak barrels for 12 months before filtering to remove the color The resulting cristalino is crystal clear; however it has all of the character of a bold añejo and the distinct mineral note indicative of the lowlands Costco offers the luxury product for $42.99 Few other tequilas have garnered more cult following than Don Julio's 1942 tequila which is easily recognizable on any bar cart The inaugural release of the 1942 tequila came in 2002 The 1942 name gives a nod to the year founder Don Julio Gonzalez began his first distillery It signifies Don Julio's focus on quality and craftsmanship taking an artisanal approach in the production of tequila fully matured agave plants and slow roasting the piñas for 72 hours for 1942 the añejo ages for two and a half years before bottling 1942 tequila is expensive any place you buy it Costco's $133 price is a bit easier to swallow 1800 Tequila is one of the most popular tequila brands It takes its name from the year of the creation of its tequila's original recipe The easily recognizable triangular-shaped bottle is an homage to the Mayan ruins in southern Mexico The brand's Cristalino elevates the trapezoidal design by adding texture with a cut glass bottle that sparkles like diamonds The ultra-premium 1800 Cristalino tequila begins with hand-harvested fully mature Weber blue agave that follows the distillery's 225-year-old añejo recipe the tequila ages in French and American oak barrels for 16 months It then rests in port wine barrels for an additional six months and vanilla with subtle hints of berries and citrus Cazadores is a brand that honors a 100-year-old tequila heritage while embracing innovation with its unique The energy to power its distillery comes from spent agave fibers The brand begins with Jalisco highlands Weber blue agave plants that are at least six years old Cazadores uses a diffusion process to extract the juice first The juice then undergoes a long fermentation the tequila ages for one year in American oak barrels lending vanilla and toasted spice flavors to the smooth While the age of Cazadores's harvested agave is younger than some brands the product doesn't lack full agave flavor And the company's dedication to creating a product with a minimal carbon footprint earns the brand high marks The reasonable price of under $40 for a near 2 liter bottle makes it one of Costco's best value options The production is similar to other brands included in this listing as it uses Weber blue agave and crushes the cooked piña with a stone tahona wheel The brand does not go into extensive details regarding the maturity of its agave plants whether it uses small-batch pot stills or continuous column distillation the resulting tequila is aromatic and fresh The 1.75L bottle's $79.99 price is comparable to other stores Costco adds convenience if you are already shopping at the warehouse eliminating the need for an extra liquor run The best tequilas at Costco's list includes options available at Costco locations nationwide within the past few months having tried these tequilas over the years I have visited Jalisco with various distilleries observing the agave harvest while learning the traditional production methods Mix 93.3 is celebrating Cinco de Drinko this Cinco De Mayo you have a chance to win a pair of tickets to the Tacos and Tequila Festival on June 21st at Legends Field has officially kicked off its fifth annual “Guac on the Rock” campaign In a press release, the company announced that from May 1 through May 31, Teremana will reimburse up to $10 for any appetizer purchased with a Teremana cocktail at participating bars and restaurants across the U.S. fans can now also participate through DoorDash making the celebration more accessible than ever Originally created to support local hospitality businesses the “Guac on the Rock” initiative has evolved into a monthlong celebration of community embodying the brand’s “Share the Mana” philosophy And with 84% of Americans reportedly dining out less due to inflation and enjoying even more appetizers with delicious Teremana cocktails all month long!” To get in on the deal, fans 21 and over simply need to upload a photo of their itemized receipt showing a Teremana cocktail and any appetizer to guacontherock.com a $10 reimbursement will be sent via Venmo The program also includes a special DoorDash promo: from May 1–12 customers who purchase a 750ml or larger bottle of Teremana from select retail locations can score a $10 gift card for use on guac Whether you're dining out or staying in The Rock’s got your first round of guac—or wings She's a lifelong journalist who covers entertainment and celebrity news Cinco de Mayo has long been a celebration of culture and shared moments that blend tradition with a modern twist—and this year there’s a new cocktail in the spotlight that captures that spirit with flair Introducing “Wicked Passionate,” a signature cocktail created by View Boston it’s a drink that honors both celebration and community this limited-time cocktail pulls its flavors from both coastal vibes and urban pride With Cinco de Mayo and Boston’s iconic spring marathon season colliding in energy and atmosphere “Wicked Passionate” is more than a drink—it’s a tribute to the passion that fuels the city and the festive spirit of the season View Boston isn’t just any destination—it’s a panoramic perch that captures the heart of the city from 750 feet above Known for offering sweeping 360-degree views from atop the Prudential Tower the observation deck is an experience on its own the team at View Boston is bringing that same local pride and perspective into a glass “Wicked Passionate” isn’t just named for the local dialect—it’s inspired by the tenacity and vibrance that define Boston Created with Boston’s marathon season in mind and good times shared among friends and strangers alike sunny libation is designed to pair seamlessly with outdoor gatherings Every element of the “Wicked Passionate” cocktail has been curated to deliver a burst of flavor that’s both tropical and refreshing with just enough complexity to keep things interesting but now co-owned and championed by Boston native Mark Wahlberg Complementing the tequila is a splash of Cointreau a premium orange liqueur that enhances the cocktail with a subtle citrus note and coconut water brings a tropical balance making the cocktail feel like a mini getaway with every sip A touch of agave and lime juice ties it all together offering sweetness and tartness in just the right proportions To prepare: Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice Shake well and strain into a chilled glass over fresh ice Behind the premium tequila in this cocktail is a brand with deep cultural and celebrity roots founded by Mexican PGA golfer Abraham Ancer and entrepreneur Aron Marquez blends traditional craftsmanship with global aspirations Co-owner Mark Wahlberg joined the venture with the goal of amplifying its presence across North America his hometown of Boston has embraced the brand is made from 100% blue Weber agave and offers a clean smooth sip with a slight peppery finish—perfect for mixing in cocktails that need both strength and nuance It’s a fitting foundation for a drink that’s as expressive as it is celebratory Cinco de Mayo is often treated as a single-day celebration With its refreshing tropical profile and elegant balance “Wicked Passionate” is poised to become a warm-weather staple Whether it’s served during spring garden parties the drink is also easy to batch for larger groups Simply scale up the proportions and keep the mixture chilled for easy serving throughout your festivities It’s a simple yet sophisticated option for those who want a step up from the classic margarita without adding unnecessary complexity Those lucky enough to be in Boston during Cinco de Mayo can head up to View Boston where the cocktail is available in limited quantities Served with panoramic views of the city skyline “Wicked Passionate” becomes more than just a beverage—it’s part of an immersive experience that brings Boston’s energy to life For others across the country, this cocktail recipe is the perfect opportunity to bring a taste of Boston home. With Flecha Azul Tequila widely available across the U.S. recreating this signature drink for your own gathering is easier than ever Whether you’re toasting on May 5 or simply enjoying a lively evening with friends “Wicked Passionate” delivers a memorable pour US delivery platform DoorDash has crowned the Margarita the 2025 drink of the summer after orders nearly doubled for reposado Tequila at the start of the year The platform said the Margarita’s appeal as the season’s leading sip is about ‘going back to basics’ According to DoorDash’s data from 1 January 1-14 April 2025 there’s been an uptick in orders for Tequila products añejo (60%) and even ready-to-drink (RTD) Tequila-based cocktails (55%) The cocktail’s typical ingredients are also showing increased demand by DoorDash users with orders of limes up by 85% agave/syrup up by 100% and mixed seasoning blends – used to rim the glass – up by 125% DoorDash’s consumer trends expert explained: “As we head into summer familiar favourites that bring a sense of fun and nostalgia for a lighter time “This season is all about celebrating the classics we know and love and the return of the Margarita proves that some traditions are timeless.” According to CGA by NIQ the Margarita is the most popular cocktail in the US – a position it has held since 2016 DoorDash also believes watermelon will play a big role in summer drinking as the ‘flavour of the moment’ “We predict one flavour will rise to the top as the Marg twist to watch” DoorDash has an 89% year-on-year increase in watermelon orders for the first quarter of 2025 (1 January to 14 April) The fruit’s seasonal freshness with simplicity that ‘delivers refreshing-but-indulgent experience that today’s drinkers crave’ was cited for its popularity DoorDash is headquartered in San Francisco and also operates in Canada, Australia and New Zealand, outside of its US base. The company moved into alcohol in September 2021 and its catalogue includes more than 100,000 alcoholic beverages In other recent news in the alcohol e-commerce space, Drizly workers are now able to claim back their lost tips from the defunct platform We are using cookies to give you the best experience on our website You can find out more about which cookies we are using or switch them off in settings This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings we will not be able to save your preferences This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again By WALA Digital StaffPublished: May 2025 at 11:55 AM CDTEmail This LinkShare on FacebookShare on X (formerly Twitter)Share on PinterestShare on LinkedInUPDATE: Semmes police says they have identified the man who allegedly stole bottle of tequila SEMMES, Ala. (WALA) - The Semmes Police Department posted on their Facebook page saying they are looking for a man who allegedly stole bottle of tequila Police say the man took a large bottle of Don Julio from the Select Spirits on Moffett Road This website is using a security service to protect itself from online attacks The action you just performed triggered the security solution There are several actions that could trigger this block including submitting a certain word or phrase You can email the site owner to let them know you were blocked Please include what you were doing when this page came up and the Cloudflare Ray ID found at the bottom of this page CMO Kathleen Braine explains how partnering with trailblazing driver Toni Breidinger helps boost the reach of the Kendall Jenner-founded brand 818 Tequila has looked to distinguish itself by mixing a cocktail of spirits fashion and digital culture to woo Gen Z and millennial consumers The approach is working: While the tequila category grew 2% in volume in 2024 The brand’s latest effort adds a shot of sports to its marketing 818 announced its first national sports partnership teaming with NASCAR driver Toni Breidinger a 25-year-old star in both motor sports and fashion “Alcohol is a ground game — it's all about the market — and NASCAR is really prevalent in a lot of these markets that we're super-focused on right now,” said CMO Kathleen Braine because we’re empowering a female driver in NASCAR it’s really aligned to what Kendall has experienced as a female founder in the alcohol space Breidinger is the first Arab-American woman to compete in NASCAR and holds a record for the most top-ten finishes by a female driver She’s also the sport’s most-followed driver and has partnered with brands including Gatorade Her team reached out to 818 to initiate the deal so it's exciting that she was interested in partnering with us and felt that we were the right brand for her,” Braine said The brand will takeover the Nashville Speedway race on May 30 as Breidinger’s primary sponsor and host an exclusive VIP experience and after-party at the event and 818 branding will be featured on Breidinger's car and racing gear throughout the 2025 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series season the partnership has a visual throughline as well “Vehicles have been part of our aesthetic and our marketing since the very beginning,” Braine said “We also have a 1990s-2000s...style in our marketing — a lot of that is drawn from how NASCAR does branding.” The experiential aspects of 818’s partnership with Breidinger demonstrate what the brand has learned from other activations The brand has been involved with Coachella for years and each iteration has seen an evolution of its efforts from a gas station-themed pop-up in 2022 to an event for 1,500 attendees featuring a major musical act this month The 818 Outpost is a model for bringing together consumers “We're looking for both their experience on that day to be perfect and then also to see how that content can resonate with a broader audience nationally via social media,” Braine said The 818 Outpost also included a pop-up element sponsored by Sprinter the ready-to-drink vodka soda that is 818’s sister brand in more ways than one: the brand was founded by Kendall’s sister Kylie Jenner and falls under the umbrella of the Calabasas Beverage Co looks for marketing opportunities for a pair of beverages aimed at different drinking occasions but they work together really well when they need to from a branding standpoint,” the executive said “We like to have them each get their moments to shine when it makes sense.” Get the free daily newsletter read by industry experts After handling the CPG giant's business at Publicis Gail Hollander now leads the marketer's in-house efforts to modernize brands for new audiences Expanding into offsite media like open-web programmatic could alleviate supply pressures but opens a whole new can of worms for the category Subscribe to the Marketing Dive free daily newsletter The free newsletter covering the top industry headlines ShareSaveCommentLifestyleSpiritsThe Best Tequila For A Margarita, According To Bartenders—And Why The Right Bottle MattersByEmily Price Emily writes about what’s in your glass and why it matters.Follow AuthorMay 01 08:00am EDTShareSaveCommentMargarita cocktail with ice lime slice and salt rim on a black slate board which means it’s officially margarita season But while it’s tempting to grab any bottle off the shelf and start shaking the truth is: not all tequilas are created equal—and the right bottle can turn a good Margarita into a great one choosing the right tequila matters just as much as the lime juice or orange liqueur I spoke to bartenders and beverage directors across the country to find out what tequila they’re reaching for this May 5th saying cheers holding tropical blended fruit margaritas More passionfruit drinks.; Shutterstock ID 780298633 The best margaritas typically begin with clean, additive-free tequilas that allow the natural agave flavors to shine "I'm a big fan of Don Fulano—especially for margaritas It's a clean spirit with no additives and the agave plant flavor comes through very strongly Other tequilas sometimes have additives such as vanilla or oak flavoring that can throw off the balance and also leave a bitter aftertaste Having that clean tequila/agave flavor is key to a great margarita." Purity and balance matter even more if you're dialing back the sweetness which is why many top bartenders favor blanco tequilas—or sometimes a carefully selected reposado—for their cocktails fresh lime juice margarita served on the rocks in a dark restaurant While traditionalists might reach for a blanco some experts find a well-made reposado adds just the right amount of depth “For a standard Margarita I find that I’ve been leaning more towards a Reposado because it has enough flavor and a touch of natural sweetness to it that you don’t need to go heavy on all your other Margarita ingredients A good one to use would be Tequila Ocho Reposado 100% agave and no additives really shines a light on the quality and care you want to put into your cocktail By adding only fresh lime juice and a touch of agave nectar you’ll have a quality Margarita that doesn’t overpower the natural flavor profile of the Tequila." Choosing a tequila that balances naturally with the acidity of fresh lime is crucial especially if you want the agave character—not sugar or additives—to be the star beverage director at Butcher Private a members club in Naples Florida smooth tequilas make all the difference: “Ocho Blanco is such a smooth silver tequila It’s been my go-to for cocktails for a while now When it comes to other highly recommended bottles Director of Beverages at The Ridley House and Medias Townehouse singles out Tres Agaves: “Tres Agaves makes one of the best margaritas by far and made with 100% organic agave that gives it a fresh authentic flavor without the harsh aftertaste which pairs perfectly with lime and enhances the classic margarita taste.” praising its versatility and complex palate: “Mijenta Blanco's herbal nose and light tropical fruit finish make it the go-to choice for classic margaritas.” For those who prefer a slightly bolder structure without losing that clean finish suggests Tequila Ocho Plata: "One of the best tequilas for a margarita that I enjoy is Tequila Ocho Plata Tequila Ocho Plata provides a clean structure for the margarita with its creamy yet citrusy notes And for those willing to spend a little more for exceptional quality Beverage Manager & Sommelier at Epicurean Atlanta recommends Cazcanes: “To present the sublime margarita I like to use a line of tequila products from Cazcanes All of their products are organic and 100% free of additives palomas and other tequila-based cocktails.” there’s no need to break the bank to get outstanding quality Vice President of Bar and Spirits at Puesto and Roma Norte in San Diego El Tesoro Blanco is hands down the best choice from highland agaves that are cooked in ovens and tahona-crushed we make thousands of margaritas with El Tesoro blanco you have all my confidence that it’ll slap in any margarita." Two glasses of margarita cocktail with a lime on the side the recipe matters almost as much as the tequila and Cointreau (or another high-quality orange liqueur) sweet orange note that balances the lime’s tartness and rounds out the drink skips the orange liqueur entirely and instead sweetens the drink with agave nectar and puts the spotlight directly on the tequila a Tommy’s Margarita may be the best way to really let the spirit shine This is a photograph of barman serving cocktail margarita Instructions: Shake all ingredients with ice and strain into a salt-rimmed glass filled with fresh ice Instructions: Shake all ingredients with ice and strain into a rocks glass over fresh ice Choosing the right tequila makes all the difference between a forgettable margarita and one you’ll crave all summer Whether you go for the clean agave punch of El Tesoro Blanco or the layered complexity of a Reposado like Tequila Ocho Guests are invited to kick off Cinco de Mayo weekend at the 6th Annual Sun Tequila Tasting on Saturday The Sun Tequila Tasting is back at Mohegan Sun and this event is home base for the ultimate Cinco de Mayo experience Guests are invited to step onto the Sun Patio and sample an impressive selection of top-shelf tequila and margarita samples providing bold flavors and even spicier vibes Fiesta del Norte is setting the tone with traditional Mariachi music and DJ D-Ave will keep the party going all night long Niantic’s own La Mesa is serving up delicious bites For more information Copyright © 2025  •  Design by Julia Balfour, LLC Print The creator of the modern-day Tequila Sunrise concocted and popularized in a Sausalito bar in the 1970s Robert “Bobby” Lozoff, a longtime bartender at The Trident, a well-known bar, music venue and restaurant frequented by many celebrities, died earlier this month in Hawaii of unknown causes. He was 77 Lozoff’s death was first reported by the Marin Independent Journal said Lozoff’s longtime friend confirmed his death Lozoff and a co-bartender, Billy Rice, are credited with creating the “most famous and most popular version of the Tequila Sunrise,” according to a historic plaque denoting the milestone, which the Marin History Museum erected in 2023. As the story goes, Lozoff served the drink to a member of the Rolling Stones in 1972, when the band was at The Trident for a party. Food It might not exist — but it’s the reach for perfection that gives the classic cocktail its lasting mystique “I poured [the band member] the tequila sunrise, and you could sort of see the light go on in his head. Bingo. You don’t need a bartender to travel with you, just buy a bottle of Cuervo, a bottle of orange juice, and grenadine,” Lozoff recalled in 2016 spreading the drink “all around the globe,” the Marin History Museum plaque says An earlier version of the Tequila Sunrise is said to have been created in the 1930s or 1940s at the Arizona Biltmore Hotel, using tequila, soda, lime juice and créme de cassis — a heavy, red liqueur, according to Chilled Magazine But Lozoff and Rice created today’s more ubiquitous Tequila Sunrise using orange juice and grenadine for a beachy “Over the years, I had the great fortune to interview Lozoff on a number of occasions, and he wasn’t all that interested in his cocktail legacy — which is the opposite of how those things usually work,” Burkhart wrote in his column remembering Lozoff But he said Lozoff had very fond memories of working at The Trident and I have no regrets,” Lozoff told Burkhart in 2012 According to The Trident, this was Lozoff’s recipe for a Tequila Sunrise: 1 part Jose Cuervo Especial Silver2 parts orange juice1 tsp grenadine From there, the recipe says, “pour tequila and orange juice into a glass, over ice. Then, slowly pour in grenadine. Enjoy in a way the Rolling Stones would approve of.” Grace Toohey is a reporter at the Los Angeles Times covering breaking news for the Fast Break Desk. Before joining the newsroom in 2022, she covered criminal justice issues at the Orlando Sentinel and the Advocate in Baton Rouge. Toohey is a Maryland native and proud Terp. Climate & Environment World & Nation California Subscribe for unlimited accessSite Map