Bourbon, move over. Tequila is taking center stage.
That’s right. Tequila is now the fastest selling spirit in the United States.
Bourbon still holds its own in Asia. But for how much longer?
Here’s what’s changing.
Young Drinkers, High Quality and Versatility
Tequila is trendy among millennials and younger spirit drinkers. Mexican history, decades of Mexican immigration to the States, and don’t leave out the celebrations of Cinco de Mayo have all contributed to the palate moves.
Premium tequilas have evolved too. You’re seeing the production of high quality tequilas along with customers who are willing to spend more for a superior product.
Tequila is versatile. You can enjoy it on the rocks, neat, or as the basis for a wide range of cocktails, like margaritas.
Health Reasons
Tequila also fits into a healthy lifestyle, according to some experts. Now, we aren’t saying you should over imbibe to get more fit. But here are what the findings are:
Tequila typically has fewer calories compared to vodka, rum, or whiskey. A standard shot of tequila (1.5 ounces) contains 96 calories, whereas other spirits can range from 97 to over 150 calories per serving.
Tequila is made from the blue agave plant, which is a natural source of sugar. Unlike some other spirits that may contain added sugars or artificial flavorings, tequila is typically produced using only agave and water, making it a more natural choice.
Agave contains certain compounds that may offer health benefits. For example, agave plants contain fructans, a type of dietary fiber that can help regulate blood sugar levels and support gut health.
And here’s the big one: a lower risk of hangovers: While excessive consumption of any alcoholic beverage can lead to hangovers, some people claim that tequila causes fewer hangovers compared to other spirits thanks to the lack of added sugars or chemical compounds.
Uniqueness and Star Power
The tequila taste is different from other spirits. Agave-based spirits are offering a distinct taste profile. Drinkers get bored after a while. Have you had the same drink every time you hit the bar? Probably not.
Now add the marketing of tequila that has grabbed more eyeballs. Look at all the stars who have branded their name to specific tequila brands.
- George Clooney and Rande Gerber: Co-founders of Casamigos Tequila.
- Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson: Co-founder of Teremana Tequila.
- Justin Timberlake: Co-founder of Sauza 901 Tequila.
- Adam Levine: Co-founder of Santo Mezquila.
- Michael Jordan: Owner of Cincoro Tequila.
- Nick Jonas: Co-founder of Villa One Tequila.
- Sammy Hagar: Owner of Cabo Wabo Tequila.
- Drake: Owner of Virginia Black Whiskey, which also produces a tequila line.
- Rita Ora: Co-owner of Prospero Tequila.
- Kendall Jenner: Co-owner of 818 Tequila.
As you will see in our segment below, Maestro, Dobel has made major steps to make their tequilas some of the best in the world. And they’re doing it without a celebrity.
Instead, they are using smart and experienced spirit experts, like Artie Duncan, the manager of the Shallotte, North Carolina, ABC store, who has been there for more than 35 years.
Artie is always ahead of the trends in the liquor business. Watch below as he takes us behind the scenes to give us a tutorial on tequila and Maestro Dobel and its distilling and aging process.
John Daly and Susan Anzalone are the Co-Creators and Co-Hosts of Undercover Jetsetter, a show on travel, food, wine, mixology and, of course, golf. They show you how to jet set the world and at home. They also co-authored the book, The TV Studio In Your Hand: How to Shoot, Edit & Deliver the Easy Way on Your iPhone. Join them for tips and hacks on the road, at home, or in the kitchen. Yes, as you will see, all on the iPhone.