Tasting Tequila with Brad

In this engaging conversation, Bradley Niccum explores the fascinating world of agave spirits with Paul, the mastermind behind a distillery in Maui. They discuss the unique challenges and advantages of growing agave in Hawaii, innovative distillation techniques, and the art of fermentation using locally propagated yeast. The conversation highlights the passion and creativity involved in crafting high-quality spirits in a non-traditional environment, showcasing the beauty of local agriculture and craftsmanship. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Agave Spirits on Maui 03:08 The Journey of Growing Agave in Hawaii 05:55 Innovative Distillation Techniques and Equipment 07:20 The Art of Fermentation and Yeast Propagation

In this conversation, Bradley Niccum shares his experiences tasting a selection of agave spirits from Hawaii, discussing the unique farming and distillation processes involved. He provides insights into the flavors and characteristics of various spirits, including Blanco, Reposado, and a special smoked pepper infusion. The conversation highlights the small-batch production and the personal touch of the distillers, making it a unique tasting experience.   Takeaways Brad completed his first marathon in Hawaii. The agave plants are grown in volcanic soil. They use a mini stone oven for distillation. The Blanco has a clean, raw agave flavor. Shipping costs can be high for these spirits. The higher proof spirit is smoother and less agave-forward. Aged spirits have a strong barrel influence. The smoked pepper infusion adds a unique flavor. Small batch production results in limited bottles. Visiting the distillery offers a personal experience. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Tasting Tequila00:50 Exploring Agave Farming in Hawaii03:09 The Distillation Process of Agave Spirits04:32 Tasting the Blanco: First Impressions05:57 Higher Proof Agave Spirit: A Smoother Experience07:52 Aged Agave Spirits: The Reposado Experience10:16 Super Premium Reserve: A Deeper Dive11:58 Smoked Pepper Infusion: A Unique Twist13:50 The Exclusive 18-Month Aged Spirit15:12 Behind the Scenes: The Agave Production Process

In this engaging conversation, Christiane from Valor Tequila shares her unique journey from a childhood immersed in Mexican culture to founding a tequila brand that prioritizes community and environmental sustainability. She discusses her experiences working at Disney, her transition to the nonprofit sector, and the creation of her tequila brand, Valor Tequila. Christiane emphasizes the importance of giving back through her Gente Buena Foundation, which allocates a portion of profits to community initiatives. The conversation highlights the significance of balancing profit with purpose and the personal stories that drive her mission. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Personal Background 09:05 Building Do Goodery and Transitioning to Tequila 14:00 The Story Behind Valor Tequila 19:58 Production Process and Unique Characteristics 28:00 Closing Thoughts and Cheers Support our fundraising cause as mentioned in the video https://gentebuenafoundation.org/ You can find more information about Valor Tequila by visiting www.drinkvalor.com Follow Valor Tequila on Social media  @DrinkValor 

Summary In this engaging conversation, Brad Niccum interviews tequila aficionado Matt Charney, who shares his extensive journey into the world of tequila. From his early days of drinking mixtos to becoming an advocate for additive-free tequila, Matt discusses his evolving preferences and the importance of understanding the production process. The conversation delves into the story behind Guacamaya Tequila, its unique production methods, and the significance of barrel aging. Listeners will gain insights into the tequila community, the importance of storytelling in branding, and where to find Guacamaya Tequila as it prepares to enter the U.S. market.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Tequila and Personal Journeys00:49 The Evolution of Tequila Appreciation01:34 Tequila Tasting Techniques and Preferences04:18 The Impact of Environment on Tasting07:08 Pairing Tequila with Food and Experiences11:42 The Story Behind the Logo13:27 Tequila Production: From Mexico to the U.S.15:34 Agave Farming: A Legacy of Resilience19:04 Crafting Quality Tequila: The Process Explained22:32 Exploring Mezcal: A Personal Perspective23:55 The Tequila Collection and Its Challenges24:52 Sourcing Unique Tequilas25:50 The Art of Tequila Aging27:23 Barrel Processes and Flavor Profiles30:26 Tequila vs. Bourbon: A Flavor Comparison32:57 Social Media and Community Engagement35:02 Tequila Events and Networking37:37 The Spirit of Unity Through Tequila

In this conversation, Bradley Niccum explores the unique characteristics of Nocturna Tequila, comparing its spring and fall releases. He discusses the innovative production methods, including wild fermentation and sustainable practices, and shares his tasting notes on both versions. The conversation highlights the importance of conservation efforts linked to the brand and concludes with recommendations for tequila enthusiasts. Takeaways Nocturna Tequila is distinct due to its unique fermentation process. The spring and fall releases showcase different flavor profiles. A portion of sales supports Jaguar conservation efforts. The brand emphasizes sustainability in its production methods. Wild fermentation is a key aspect of Nocturna's production. The use of agave fibers in distillation is innovative. Both releases have high proof but maintain smoothness. Tasting side by side reveals nuanced differences in flavor. The distillery's practices enhance the overall quality of the tequila. Tequila enthusiasts should seek out both releases for comparison.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Nocturna Tequila02:41 Unique Production Methods of Nocturna05:00 Tasting the Spring and Fall Releases09:30 Final Thoughts and Recommendations

Summary In this engaging conversation, Brad Niccum interviews Arturo Lamas III, the founder of Lost Lore Tequila. They discuss Arturo's journey from his family's legacy in agave spirits to his entrepreneurial ventures in the beverage industry. Arturo shares insights into the distillation process, the unique aspects of Lost Lore's branding, and the meticulous care taken in crafting their tequila. The conversation highlights the importance of family tradition, quality ingredients, and the art of aging tequila to create distinct flavor profiles. In this engaging conversation, Arturo Lamas III discusses the importance of empowering women in the tequila industry, innovative barrel aging techniques, and the exploration of exotic woods to enhance flavor profiles. He shares insights on future releases, the significance of traditional methods, and the tasting notes of his products. The conversation also touches on the accessibility and distribution of tequila, as well as community engagement through merchandise. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Arturo Lamas and His Journey02:58 The Family Legacy of Agave Spirits05:56 Crafting Tequila: The Distillation Process08:50 The Unique Bottling and Branding of Lost Lore Tequila11:57 Exploring the Flavor Profiles of Lost Lore Tequila14:49 Aging and Tasting: The Art of Tequila Maturation18:35 Empowering Women in the Tequila Industry19:17 Innovative Barrel Aging Techniques22:01 Exploring Exotic Woods in Tequila24:28 Experimenting with Traditional Methods26:06 Future Releases and Special Editions27:11 Tasting Notes and Flavor Profiles29:58 Accessibility and Distribution of Tequila32:43 Merchandise and Community Engagement

In this engaging conversation, Bradley Niccum and Agave Love And Lore delve into their shared passion for tequila, exploring its journey from bourbon to tequila, discussing favorite brands, and the importance of community in the tequila world. They also touch on social media's role in sharing knowledge, personal projects like the infinity bottle, and the fascinating world of mezcal and other agave spirits. takeaways Tequila passion often starts with a journey from other spirits. The Brad rating scale simplifies tequila evaluation. Community plays a vital role in discovering new tequilas. Social media can be a platform for sharing tequila knowledge. Personal projects like infinity bottles enhance the tasting experience. Tequila collections can become extensive and require preservation methods. High proof tequilas are gaining popularity among enthusiasts. Exploring mezcal opens up a new world of flavors and profiles. The tequila community is supportive and helpful in sourcing bottles. Sharing experiences and knowledge is more important than popularity.   Chapters 00:00Introduction to Tequila Passion 03:01The Journey from Bourbon to Tequila 06:02Tequila Collections and Preservation 08:46Exploring Favorite Tequila Brands 12:07The Tequila Communit...

In this engaging conversation, Brad interviews Alan Taylor, the owner of Entremanos tequila. They discuss Alan's journey from engineering to the tequila industry, the significance of the brand's name, and the craftsmanship involved in tequila production. Alan shares insights into the importance of handwork, the empowerment of women in the industry, and the innovative techniques used at their distillery, NOM 1522. The conversation highlights the rich culture surrounding tequila and the dedication to quality and community. In this conversation, Brad and Alan discuss the intricate processes involved in tequila production, focusing on fermentation, milling techniques, and the importance of water in flavor profiles. They explore the challenges of natural fermentation, the impact of different production methods, and the personal preferences of tequila consumption. Alan shares insights into the distribution of Entremanos tequila and the company's plans for future experimentation and expansion. Follow EntreManos: Instagram & Facebook: @EntreManosTequila Twitter: @EntreManos TikTok: @EntreManos.Tequila Website: www.entremanostequila.com   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Tequila and Its Origins 07:11 The Meaning Behind 'Entremanos' and Its Symbolism 12:20 Craftsmanship and the Importance of Handwork 20:35 Innovative Production Techniques in Tequila Making 27:26 Experimentation in Tequila Production 33:45 Distribution and Availability of Entremanos Tequila 

Did you know that bats and tequila have a unique relationship? In this week’s episode of Tasting Tequila with Brad, I dive into how these amazing creatures help pollinate the agave plants we need to make our favorite spirit! Learn why bats are the unsung heroes of tequila production and how "bat-friendly" tequila is making a difference. Listen to the full episode now and raise a glass to nature's tequila helpers! For more on sustainable tequila, visit the Tequila Interchange Project: www.tequilainterchangeproject.org 

Whether you're a seasoned tequila aficionado or just starting to explore the world of agave, this podcast offers insightful reviews, tasting notes, and recommendations for every occasion. Brad's knowledge, honed through years of tasting, travel, and even using the Tequila Matchmaker app, guides listeners through the nuances of different tequila profiles. Plus, you'll get the inside scoop on his ever-evolving collection of over 100 bottles, tips for choosing the perfect tequila, and candid stories from his journey in the tequila world. Tune in for a laid-back, informative experience where Brad shares his favorite brands, answers listener questions, and uncorks new bottles to explore their unique flavors. Whether you're looking for the perfect bottle to gift, the best tequila for margaritas, or simply a great sipper, Tasting Tequila with Brad is your go-to guide for all things tequila. Grab your favorite glass and join Brad for a toast to good tequila, good friends, and great conversations!

This might be one of the most honest agave spirits in Mexico — and it’s not tequila. In this video, I break down Caballito Cerrero Chato Puntas, the distillery story, the agave, the ancestral production, and a full nose, palate, and finish review. This might be one of the most honest agave spirits in Mexico — and it’s not tequila. In this episode of Tasting Tequila with Brad, I take a deep dive into Caballito Cerrero Chato Puntas, an ancestral agave spirit made in Amatitán, Jalisco that intentionally does not follow modern tequila regulations. We cover: • The Caballito Cerrero distillery story • Why Chato agave disqualifies this spirit as tequila • What “Puntas only” really means — and why it matters • Full tasting notes: nose, palate, mouthfeel, and finish • Who this bottle is for — and who it isn’t This is a high-proof, terroir-driven agave spirit for serious agave fans who want to understand what existed before tequila had rules. If you love additive-free tequila, ancestral mezcal, and authentic agave spirits, this review is for you. Let me know in the comments — would you try this knowing it’s NOT tequila? #NotTequila #CaballitoCerrero #AgaveSpirits #ChatoAgave #Puntas #TequilaEducation #AdditiveFree #AgaveNerd © Tasting Tequila with Brad

I went inside the distillery where Cazcanes Tequila and Nuestras Raíces are made to see traditional agave spirit production up close and taste a new release coming this June. This is a full behind-the-scenes distillery visit, tequila review, and agave deep dive. Most people only taste tequila in a glass — I traveled to the source to see how Cazcanes Tequila and the Nuestras Raíces agave spirit are actually made. In this episode of Tasting Tequila with Brad, I take you inside the distillery, show the traditional production process, and break down what makes this agave spirit stand out. From cooked agave aromas to fermentation and distillation, you’ll see how patience and craftsmanship shape the final flavor. Then we put it to the test with a full tasting review — nose, palate, mouthfeel, and finish. Plus, I share details about a new Cazcanes release coming in June that agave lovers should keep on their radar. If you care about: • Traditional tequila production • Additive-free agave spirits • Distillery visits and behind-the-scenes footage • Honest tequila reviews You’re in the right place. ⸻ Tasting Notes Covered Cooked agave, black pepper, minerality, herbal citrus, olive brine, and a long, clean, peppery finish. ⸻ What You’ll See ✔ Inside the distillery ✔ Agave cooking & fermentation ✔ Distillation process ✔ Full tasting review ✔ New June release preview ⸻ Subscribe for more behind-the-scenes tequila content, distillery tours, and agave education. #Tequila #Cazcanes #AgaveSpirit #TequilaReview #DistilleryTour © Tasting Tequila with Brad

Pantera de Oro Extra Añejo shocked me in a Tequila Matchmaker blind—so I had to interview co-founder Scott Baird (Tequila Ocho, Ancho Reyes) to uncover how it was made. Pantera de Oro Extra Añejo came out of nowhere in my Tequila Matchmaker Extra Añejo blind… and scored insanely high. So I sat down with Scott Baird, co-founder of Pantera de Oro, and a longtime industry force who helped launch Tequila Ocho in the U.S. and worked on Ancho Reyes and other iconic spirits. In this interview we go deep on: • Scott’s origin story (world-class bars, education, and tasting philosophy) • The wild behind-the-scenes reality of getting a tequila brand to market • Why Pantera de Oro is built on finesse + balance (not just oak and structure) • Barrels, aging environments, flavor integration, and what’s coming next (Blanco + high proof) • His “Top 5” producers, desert island bottle, and real talk on tequila integrity If you’re into traditional tequila, additive-free tequila, Extra Añejo, and the business side of agave spirits—this one is for you. Find Pantera de Oro / updates: https://www.panteradeorotequila.com/ Subscribe for more interviews + reviews

Still Strength Blind #4 – YOU ASKED For This | 100+ Proof Tequila Tasting (Solo Blind) First 200 characters (CRITICAL): Still strength tequila blind tasting! In this solo blind, I taste four high-proof tequilas over 100 proof with no labels to find out which still strength tequila truly delivers the best agave flavor. This is Still Strength Blind #4, and this one was requested by you — the followers. In this episode of Tasting Tequila with Brad, I’m doing a solo blind tasting of four powerful still strength / high-proof tequilas, all over 100 proof. No labels. No bias. Just agave. The Lineup (Blind): • Manuscrito Tequila Blanco – Chapter Two • Tequila Cultura 100 Blanco • La Pulga Tequila Blanco 110 • Cazcanes No. 10 Blanco (Still Strength) Each tequila is tasted completely blind to focus on: ✔️ Aroma ✔️ Palate ✔️ Texture ✔️ Proof integration ✔️ Finish ✔️ Overall balance Still strength tequilas are often considered the purest expression of agave — but does higher proof always mean better tequila? Let’s find out. COMMENT BELOW Which tequila do YOU think wins this blind tasting? LIKE if you enjoy blind tastings SUBSCRIBE for weekly tequila reviews, interviews, and blind tastings © Tasting Tequila with Brad

This Might Be the Most UNDERRATED Reposado Tequila | El Tequileño Gran Reserva Review El Tequileño Gran Reserva Reposado might be the most underrated reposado tequila on the market. Made from 100% estate-grown Blue Weber agave from Los Altos, this tequila is aged a minimum of 8 months in American oak and blended with 18-month añejo for balance, depth, and character. In this video, I break down El Tequileño’s history, traditional production methods, volcanic spring water, open-air fermentation, copper pot distillation, and detailed tasting notes. This is a reposado that drinks like an añejo without losing its agave-forward profile. If you enjoy additive-free tequila, traditional production, and honest tequila reviews, this one’s for you. Subscribe for more tequila reviews, blind tastings, and distillery deep dives. © Tasting Tequila with Brad

Stop Ignoring Joven Tequila | Why Connoisseurs Love This Overlooked Category Joven tequila is one of the most misunderstood categories in tequila — and one of the most loved by connoisseurs. In this video, I explain what Joven tequila is, how it’s made, and why blends like Xoloitzcuintli Joven, Lost Lore Joven, and Cazcanes Joven show just how exciting this category can be. Most people think tequila is only Blanco, Reposado, or Añejo — but Joven allows master blenders to combine fresh agave brightness with aged complexity in ways no single barrel ever could. In this episode of Tasting Tequila with Brad, I break down: • What defines a Joven tequila • How Joven tequilas are blended • Why no two Joven tequilas are ever the same • Why many experienced tequila drinkers consider Joven their favorite expression We’ll look closely at: • Xoloitzcuintli Tequila Joven • Lost Lore Tequila Joven • Cazcanes Tequila Joven If you’ve written off Joven before — this video may completely change how you see tequila. Subscribe for honest tequila education, reviews, and interviews Drop a comment: Is Joven underrated? © Tasting Tequila with Brad

La Pulga Añejo Tequila review from NOM 1068. Additive-free Añejo tequila made with 100% Blue Weber agave, dual-cooked agave, citrus-yeast fermentation, and aged 18–22 months in American oak. n this episode of Tasting Tequila with Brad, we take a deep dive into La Pulga Spirits Añejo Tequila — an additive-free Añejo crafted with intention, balance, and patience. Produced at NOM 1068 using 100% Blue Weber agave grown at 6,400 feet in the Highlands of Jalisco, this Añejo is aged 18–22 months in second-use American oak barrels, allowing the agave to remain front and center. What makes La Pulga different is the process: • 50/50 dual cook (stone horno + autoclave) • Single-press extraction • Open-air fermentation with proprietary yeast cultured from citrus orchards • Rock music played during fermentation to agitate yeast • Double distilled in pot stills • Oxygenated cold-rest finishing for enhanced mouthfeel On the nose, expect roasted agave and ripe fruit. The palate delivers vanilla, oak, cocoa, and subtle sweetness. The finish is long, smooth, and endlessly rewarding — a true sipping Añejo. I also reference my in-depth interview with Sarah and David Wiley, where we talk about the philosophy behind the brand and why La Pulga refuses shortcuts. If you enjoy additive-free tequila, process-driven brands, and honest tequila reviews — this one’s for you. Let me know in the comments: Do you prefer bold, oak-forward Añejos — or refined, agave-first sipping tequilas? Cheers! #LaPulgaTequila #TequilaAnejo #AdditiveFreeTequila #TequilaReview #TequilaYouTube #HighlandsTequila #NOM1068 #CraftTequila #SipTequila #TequilaNerd #TequilaCommunity #AgaveSpirits #TequilaLife #TastingTequila #TequilaEducation © Tasting Tequila with Brad

This Tequila Arriesgado Reposado review dives into a reposado that takes risks. Aged in French oak and rooted in tradition, this tequila puts agave first — not the barrel. In this review, I’m tasting Tequila Arriesgado Reposado, a bold, agave-forward reposado that refuses to play it safe. Aged for approximately three months in French oak, Arriesgado Reposado focuses on balance, restraint, and showcasing cooked agave rather than heavy barrel influence. This approach creates a clean, expressive reposado that rewards slow sipping and careful tasting. If you want to understand why this tequila tastes the way it does, be sure to watch my full interview with Roberto Real, where we go deep into the philosophy, production decisions, and risks behind Arriesgado. Tasting Notes: • Cooked agave • Honey and light caramel • Citrus peel and gentle spice • Soft oak with a fresh, balanced finish If you enjoy honest tequila reviews, additive-free tequila discussions, and deep dives into how tequila is actually made, hit subscribe and turn on notifications. Sip responsibly and drink curious. Tequila Arriesgado, Tequila Arriesgado Reposado, Arriesgado Reposado review, reposado tequila review, tequila review, additive free tequila, artisanal tequila, tequila tasting, French oak reposado, agave forward tequila, tequila education, tequila YouTube, sipping tequila, tequila content creator, traditional tequila, tequila nerd, tequila enthusiast, tasting tequila with brad, tequila interview © Tasting Tequila with Brad

Do you have grit? In this exclusive interview, we dive into the Original Grit Tequila story, born at the iconic Kemo Sabe store in Aspen. The founders share how this tequila was created, the distillation process, flavor profiles, and what makes Original Grit stand out in the tequila industry. Do you have grit? In this exclusive long-form interview, we dive deep into the Original Grit Tequila story, a tequila brand that was born at the legendary Kemo Sabe store in Aspen. This isn’t just another tequila — it’s a brand built on hospitality, authenticity, and hands-on craftsmanship. The founders of Original Grit Tequila share their journey through the spirits industry, how their relationship with Kemo Sabe shaped the brand, and why consumer experience matters just as much as what’s inside the bottle. We explore how Original Grit Tequila is distilled, the flavor profiles that define the brand, and what it takes to launch a tequila in a highly competitive market. This conversation covers: • How Original Grit Tequila was born at Kemo Sabe • The founders’ background in hospitality and spirits • Traditional tequila distillation methods • Flavor profiles and production philosophy • Building brand awareness and consumer trust • Lessons learned in the tequila business • The future vision for Original Grit Tequila If you’re passionate about tequila, craftsmanship, and authentic brand stories, this is a must-watch interview. Drop a comment below: Do YOU have grit? CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction to Original Grit Tequila 03:00 The Founders' Journey and Background 05:57 The Unique Experience of Kemo Sabe 08:51 Tequila: A Personal Relationship 12:09 The Process of Creating Original Grit Tequila 14:55 The Distillation and Aging Process 18:02 Exploring the Flavor Profiles 20:50 The Brand's Vision and Future Plans 24:01 Consumer Engagement and Brand Awareness 27:12 Lessons Learned in the Tequila Business 30:01 Personal Reflections and Aspirations #OriginalGritTequila #DoYouHaveGrit #KemoSabe #TequilaInterview #TequilaStory #TequilaBrand #TequilaIndustry #TequilaFounders #CraftTequila #AdditiveFreeTequila #TequilaCulture #AspenColorado #TequilaCommunity © Tasting Tequila with Brad

We Ran a Race Through a UNESCO-Protected Agave Landscape ‍♂️ | Carrera del Agave This might be the only race in the world run through a UNESCO-protected agave landscape — and we ran it. ‍♂️ Tonie and I take you to Amatitán, Jalisco for the incredible Carrera del Agave. This might be the only race in the world run through a UNESCO-protected agave landscape — and we ran it. Tonie and I traveled to Amatitán, Jalisco to take part in the Carrera del Agave, a truly unique 10K race set in the heart of Mexico’s historic agave fields — a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site. Organized by master distiller Iliana Partida, this race celebrates the land, culture, and people behind tequila. We were honored to run alongside Todd Homell, owner of Elevación 1250 Tequila, and experience firsthand how deeply connected tequila is to agriculture and heritage. This isn’t a city race. This isn’t a typical destination run. This is culture, community, and agave — step by step. If you love tequila, travel, running, or meaningful experiences, this race belongs on your radar. Subscribe for tequila stories, culture, and experiences you won’t find anywhere else. © Tasting Tequila with Brad ================================================= More Related Tags: tequila lovers podcast, tasting tequila, tequila reviews, best tequila, tequila tasting, tequila brands, additive-free tequila, tequila lovers, top tequila brands, premium tequila, sipping tequila, tequila cocktails, tequila expert, tequila recommendations, best sipping tequila, agave spirits, Mexican tequila, tequila education, tequila history, podcast #carreradelagave #agavelandscape #unescoheritage #agavespirits #tequilaculture #tequilalover #tequilajourney #crafttequila #mexicandrinks #tequilatasting #agaverun #adventuretravel #podcast