In the Winter issue of Tequila Aficionado, we go in-depth with David Rodriguez, the Master Distiller at the helm of Patrón Tequila. We also reveal our 2025 Brands of Promise winners, begin exploring the growing buzz around Mexican wine, and take a closer look at the patience, proof, and purpose behind fan-favorite tequila Xoloitzcuintle—along with the vision of its founder, Ernesto Aguirre IV.
A High-Proof Detour in Guadalajara
In this spirited account, Senior Taster Dave Dinius takes readers on an unexpected journey to Guadalajara, where a spontaneous invitation from Chris Cárdenas turns into a memorable deep dive into high-proof tequila. Amid highway blockades and shifting plans, Dinius finds himself in an intimate tasting led by master distiller Francisco Gonzalez Jr., sampling bold new expressions from Cárdenas Legacy Tequila. From nuanced 40% offerings to a powerful 55% blanco, the experience reveals not only the evolving palate of tequila enthusiasts but also the resilience and passion behind the craft. Set against a backdrop of social unrest and industry change, this story blends rich flavor, candid conversation, and a reminder that sometimes the best tequila moments happen off the beaten path.
What’s The Buzz With Mexican Wine?
In this vibrant exploration of Mexico’s evolving wine scene, Norma Chávez-Delgado and Joe Delgado uncork the story behind the rising Mexican Wine Movement—a dynamic blend of history, terroir, and innovation. From the 500-year legacy rooted in the Spanish introduction of Vitis vinifera to the pioneering spirit of Casa Madero, the oldest winery in North America, this preview highlights a country redefining expectations. Readers are guided through standout regions like Valle de Guadalupe and emerging areas across the nation, where diverse climates and bold winemakers are shaping distinctive expressions from Nebbiolo to Chenin Blanc. With passion and insider perspective, Chávez-Delgado and Delgado invite readers to discover a flourishing wine culture that is as rich in heritage as it is in flavor.
Q&A David Rodríguez, Master Distiller of
Patrón Tequila
In this intimate and insightful conversation, David Rodríguez García opens up about his remarkable journey from regulatory work with the CRT to leading one of the world’s most recognized ultra-premium tequila brands, Patrón Tequila. Sitting down with Alexander Perez, Rodríguez reflects on the mentorship of Francisco Alcaraz, the responsibility of preserving tradition at scale, and the evolution of tequila from a party spirit to a respected, sipping category. The discussion dives into industry challenges, from agave sustainability to transparency and the “additive-free” movement, while highlighting Patrón’s commitment to craftsmanship, community, and environmental stewardship. Blending personal stories with forward-looking insight, this interview offers a rare look inside the mindset of a master distiller dedicated to honoring legacy while shaping the future of tequila.
Tequila Aficionado’s Brands Of Promise for 2025
Tequila excellence takes center stage as Tequila Aficionado unveils its highly anticipated 2025 Brands of Promise Top Ten. After a record-breaking year of submissions, more than 230 agave and agave-adjacent spirits were meticulously evaluated by a panel of expert catadores led by Mike Morales. Each expression was judged with precision, celebrating craftsmanship, authenticity, and innovation across categories. The result is a definitive list of standout spirits that embody the very best of the industry today. This year’s winners not only reflect the continued growth and diversity of agave spirits, but also set the standard for quality and excellence in an ever-evolving global market.
Xoloitzcuintle Tequila
Patience, Proof, and Purpose
In this compelling profile, Catadora Araceli Costilla Sharp explores the deliberate rise of Xoloitzcuintle Tequila and its founder, Ernesto Aguirre IV, whose unconventional path is redefining what tequila can be. Built on a foundation of patience, high-proof expression, and cultural purpose, Xoloitzcuintle stands out in a crowded market by embracing small-batch production, field-driven fermentation, and elevated ABV. From its roots in Los Altos to its evolving, terroir-focused philosophy, the brand reflects Aguirre’s commitment to authenticity over mass appeal. More than a tequila story, this is a journey of passion, education, and intention, where every bottle carries not just bold flavor, but a deeper respect for tradition, community, and the long game.
Tequila Aficionado’s Top Feature Articles of 2025
From shifting consumer tastes to industry shakeups, 2025 proved to be a defining year for agave spirits—and Tequila Aficionado captures it all in this dynamic roundup of the headlines that mattered most. The surge in high-proof expressions, the emergence of global markets such as India, and the growing scrutiny of influencer marketing and celebrity-backed brands reveal a category in rapid evolution. At the same time, deeper challenges, from plummeting blue agave prices and looming tariffs to lawsuits involving major players like Diageo, underscore the complexities behind the boom. Layer in festival culture, cargo thefts, and ongoing debates about transparency, and this comprehensive overview paints a vivid picture of an industry at a crossroads, where opportunity, risk, and innovation collide.
The Price of Agave Hits Bottom in 2026
While tequila exports continue to grow in markets like the United States, Italy, and Spain, the agave fields of Jalisco are facing a severe downturn. Experts warn this imbalance could lead to abandoned fields and trigger another shortage cycle.
