There are Chemicals in Your Tequila?!

There are Chemicals in Your Tequila?!

Surprise! Your favorite tequila might not be as pure as you think. If you have followed me for any length of time or watched any video about tequila, you’ve probably heard me say that some tequilas have Additives.
But exactly what are Additives?

Many brands— even—the big names, add a concoction of chemicals and products during production. While this is technically legal, (as long as they keep it under a threshold that is 1% by the total volume) these additives aren't disclosed on labels. Ever.

Why the additives?

 Consistency: Tequila production is complex, and additives help ensure each batch tastes the same.

Shortcut to aging: Oak extract and caramel coloring mimic the taste and look of aged tequila, saving time and money.

Common tequila additives:

• Sugar-based sweeteners: Agave nectar to corn syrup, these make tequila sweeter.

• Glycerin: Adds a thicker mouthfeel to thin tequilas.

• Oak extract: Imitates the flavor of barrel aging.

• Caramel coloring: Darkens the tequila to resemble aged varieties.

Why should you care?

This lack of transparency is misleading. Consumers unknowingly buy inferior products, tricking them into thinking additives equal quality. This practice thrives due to high demand, with brands prioritizing quantity over quality.

What can you do?

Seek Confirmation: Look for brands certified additive-free by Tequila Matchmaker.

Question celebrity & other big name brand tequilas: These are often more likely to contain additives. Of course there are exceptions.

 Educate yourself: Learn about tequila production to make informed choices.

Don't let your margarita be marred by mystery ingredients. Choose your tequila wisely!

Spirit Sales in the United States Are Down

The U.S. spirits market, which has been on a bit of a rollercoaster these past few years, is experiencing a bit of a slowdown. Spirits sales in the US fell by 2.7% in the 12 months to March 2024 as rising prices impacted consumer spending.

Recent data reveals that sales have dipped slightly across the board, with wine taking a steeper tumble than spirits. Even big-name brands like Jameson, Absolut, and our best friends Casamigos have reported drops in sales.

According to Just Drinks, the big losers are Cognac, Gin, Scotch and Rum when compared to 2023 numbers. Tequila continued its meteoric rise in sales, while whiskey and vodka have seen a marginal increase. What shocked me about their numbers is that Cocktails seem to be growing in popularity as well.

What's causing this shift?

Well, it seems a few factors are at play. Inflation has been hitting everyone's wallets hard, and rising gas prices haven't helped either. Plus, after a wild couple of years filled with pandemic-induced panic buying and celebratory splurges, it seems folks are starting to tighten their belts and return to more moderate spending habits.

In my own Restaurant, I have seen a dip in sales from last year, and after speaking with some other folks in the industry I can say they are also feeling something similar. Of course that is just our experience in Massachusetts, but apparently sales are down in other places too, like in Great Britain where sales have plummeted across 4 straight months now.

This doesn't necessarily spell doom for our beloved drinks. In fact, some people predict that the market will likely stabilize and even rebound in the coming months (though it might not reach the frenzy of the past few years). Some brands are actually seeing some growth, like Espolon Tequila and the ever-popular Campari. And that’s not even mentioning a whole host of Additive Free tequilas which seem to be on the up, if you Listen to Jay Baer.

I do think it means that bars and restaurants may suffer for a bit.

So, what does this all mean for you?
It could mean a return to more reasonable prices and a wider selection of spirits at your favorite stores and bars. But if we’re being honest, that’s probably not going to be the case. Companies usually don’t drop prices after raising them—especially not the big liquor brands.

I think it’s more likely that well see a slowdown in the introduction of new brands entering the market, while some of the big boys will probably start buying up some of the newer smaller brands that have popped up in recent years and started to make a name for themselves. Classic consolidation.

I think these signs are more symptomatic of a larger shift in the economy, and it could be a tough ride for some bars, restaurants, and spirits as a whole in the next few months. The cost of food keeps rising, the cost of gas keeps rising, and with so much uncertainty people seem to be going out less.

Buckle up, because it may get bumpy out there for us in the industry.

National Paloma Day was May 22nd

The Paloma is Mexico’s national drink. No, its not the Margarita. And it even has its own special day. Which was this past week.

My favorite Paloma Recipe is:

• 2 oz Tequila Blanco

• 0.75 oz Lime Juice

• 0.75 oz Grapefruit Juice

• 0.5 oz Simple Syrup

• Soda Water

But a little while back I actually made a whole video making the Paloma, 3 different ways if you want to check that one out as well.

In Other News 🍹

• Not Just a Bartender, releases his first Limited Edition shirt. And its dope.

• Apparently, Patron is coming out with a vodka… Because that’s something we needed more of… for some reason. 😔

• Tales of the Cocktail released their 2024 Agenda. Sounds like its gonna be a fun one in New Orleans