Tequila isn’t anything “New”

I recently took a trip down to Jalisco, Mexico, visiting the Volcan de Mi Tierra Distillery. While I was down there, something became very clear to me—we often think of Tequila as a “new” trend. Something that’s become popular over the last few years. But in actuality, Tequila has been around for centuries. Like over hundreds of years.

The family who owns Volcan has an Hacienda (kind of like an estate in the country side) that has so much historic significance and has literally been in their family for hundreds of years. At this Hacienda, you can even see the ruins of an old tequila distillery dating back to the 1700s.

I am working on editing all of the footage that I shot while we were down there to tell a great story, but in the meantime I wanted to talk about the significance of just how old this spirit is.

Over 300 years ago they were making this delicious spirit, and while some production methods have improved over time and some producers have decided to cut corners, generally speaking, tequila production has kind of stayed the same for centuries.

I understand most other spirits also have very storied histories and it’s one of the parts I love the most about alcohol in general. The history and human connection throughout time. I'm a huge history nerd like that.

But as I stood there looking at what was likely, at one point, a tahona pit— I couldn't help but think about how much our world has changed in the last 300 years. And yet, one thing that hasn't changed that much is the way tequila is made. People are still producing this incredible spirit in the same way. A spirit that is intensely difficult and back-breaking to produce. It just shows that it's way more than just a product.

And this is one of the things I love so much about it. There is real heritage and history, and It tells the story of people over many years. And long may this traditional continue.

Hidden Tequila Gems You Should Check Out

So, are you feeling like your tequila repertoire is stuck on repeat? Looking for something a little under the radar? We’ve got you covered! If you are looking for some amazing expressions that highlight the amazing variety and of tequila, don’t sleep on these hidden gems :

Budget-Friendly Pick: Tequila Cascahuin (NOM 1123) takes the top spot for value. This Blanco packs a flavorful punch with notes of roasted agave, citrus, pepper, and a touch of vegetal character. At around $35 to $40, it's a budget-friendly option that won't disappoint.

High-Quality Flavor Bomb : Lagrimas del Valle (NOM 1123) focuses on the unique characteristics of the land where their agave grows. Each year, they release a vintage tequila highlighting a specific plot. Bursting with minerality, earthiness, agave, and citrus flavors this is a complex find that is worth trying.

Single-Estate Gem : El Ateo (NOM 1635) showcases tequilas from a well-preserved agave farm dating back to the 20th century. Their Blanco, made with deep well water, offers a unique vegetal and almost briny aroma with a peppery kick. The Reposado, aged in white oak and American bourbon casks, boasts a delightful minerality and roasted agave flavor accented by cinnamon and butterscotch notes.

A True Hidden Gem:  Volcan de Mi Tierra (NOM 1523) Don’t let the big fancy X.A bottle discourage you, this tequila is a true hidden gem, and I’m not just saying that because I was just down at their distillery. Its precisely because i went down there and got to see first hand the level of care, dedication, and craftsmanship that they exude that I think you should try them. Their core lineup is incredible, with their reposado being a clear standout.

But the truly spectacular product of theirs that I am obsessed with hasn’t hit the market quite yet. Their Tahona Blanco. Keep an eye out for that.

Honorable Mentions: Keep an eye out for Tequila Corrido (NOM 1499)— crafted by Ana Maria Romero Mena, the mastermind behind the great Mijenta brand— and also check out Siembra Azul (NOM 1414). Great expressions at a reasonable price point.

The Unstoppable Rise of Women's Sports Bars

Women’s sports have really started to emerge in popularity over the last few years, and have started to take hold in the mind of the public. Just ask most sports fans today who Caitlin Clark is and they will most likely be able to answer you. With the recent massive success of the Women’s NCAA Basketball tournament and the recent explosion in the viewership in things such as the Women’s Premier League and Women’s World Cups, it’s safe to say that Women’s Sports are making their way into the spotlight.

Deloitte forecasts that in 2024, for the first time ever, women’s elite sports will generate a revenue that surpasses $1 billion — a 300% increase on the industry’s valuation in 2021.

Sports bars have always been an integral part of the general bar scene. Crowds of people gathering in bars and pubs around to watch their favorite team and to have a laugh is a very common scene across the world. But usually sports bars are male-dominated and focused solely on male sports which isn’t exactly the most conducive environment for an inclusive space.

Where Women’s Sports Bars Come in

Oregon-based Chef Jenny Nguyen's journey began with a simple idea—an idea that would ultimately transform into a groundbreaking movement. Nguyen's vision for a women's sports bar took root in a parking lot, where she recognized a glaring gap in the market for spaces that catered specifically to female sports enthusiasts.

Driven by a passion for sports and a desire to create a welcoming environment for women, Nguyen embarked on a journey to turn her idea into reality. In 2022 that dream came to fruition in the form of Sports Bra, the first sports bar dedicated to women’s sports.

More than Just a Fad

Women's sports bars are more than just a quick-burning trend because they represent a significant shift in our societal landscape, manifested through bar culture.

Women's sports bars prioritize inclusivity, creating spaces where female sports enthusiasts feel welcome and valued. This inclusivity extends beyond gender, embracing diversity in all its forms, including race, sexual orientation, and ability.

By amplifying the voices and accomplishments of women in sports, women's sports bars contribute to greater representation and visibility for female athletes in a traditionally male-dominated environment. Women's sports bars also serve as community hubs, fostering a sense of belonging and camaraderie/

By using their platforms to promote awareness and drive positive change, these establishments have a broader social impact that extends beyond the realm of sports.

What started as a niche concept has quickly evolved into a growing trend. Eater recently had a feature going over this very topic :

Our Take

Sports bars have always been an important part of the bar scene because sports have always brought people together. With the rise in popularity with women’s sports, it’s only natural that bars rise up to meet that demand. Of course regular sports bars will most likely shift to also meet that demand somewhat, but it’s still amazing to have spaces like this that are pushing the envelope and driving meaningful change.

Last week we asked you all if Tipping Should be outlawed?

And the results were very interesting. Most of you either said that change is needed or that establishments should just pay their staff more.

🟨⬜️⬜️⬜️⬜️⬜️ Yes! Its an Unfair system (2)

⬜️⬜️⬜️⬜️⬜️⬜️ No. Servers & Bartenders need tips (1)

🟩🟩🟩🟩🟩🟩 Change is needed. Not sure what. (7)

🟨🟨🟨🟨🟨⬜️ Just pay people more dammit... (6)

🟨⬜️⬜️⬜️⬜️⬜️ Places that aren’t food & drink related should not have tips. (2)

18 Votes

In Other News 🍹

• The Educated Barfly released a video on amazing Spring Cocktails for 2024

• On the Behind the Stick podcast, we Interviewed Nick Hogan from Mover & Shaker

• Truffle on the Rocks recently posted an ultimate guide to clarifying cocktails

• Not Just a Bartender & High Proof Preacher are both judging a cocktail contest where you can win $5000 and a trip to Spain