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!

Join me for an exclusive interview with Dominick Wilkins, owner of Maxwell Park Tequila. Discover the story behind this additive-free tequila, small batch production, and passion for authentic 100% agave tequila. In this in-depth tequila interview, we talk about the journey of creating a brand, honoring tradition, and crafting a tequila that stands out in quality and character. Maxwell Park is made in small batches with Highland agave, no shortcuts, and no additives. Topics covered: • Dominick Wilkins on starting Maxwell Park Tequila • The journey from idea to brand • Working with family distilleries in Jalisco • Why additive-free tequila matters • Highlands agave, fermentation, and distillation • Building a legacy brand with passion over profit If you love tequila reviews, brand stories, and interviews with people shaping the tequila industry, this episode is for you. Subscribe for more tequila interviews, reviews, and stories:  @Tastingtequilawithbrad  Order Maxwell Park Tequila here: https://mptequila.com/product/exclusive-platinum-blanco/ Cheers to tradition, craftsmanship, and authentic tequila!

Discover Tesoro Azul Tequila in this full review! Tesoro Azul Blanco is not just a party drink — it’s authentic tequila, crafted with tradition in Jalisco. In this Tesoro Azul Tequila review, I share the history, production methods, and tasting notes from my visit to the Tesoro Azul distillery. Tesoro Azul Tequila is cooked in stone/brick ovens, fermented naturally, and distilled in stainless steel with copper coils. No shortcuts, no additives — just pure agave flavor. From citrus and earthiness on the nose to pepper, floral, and mineral notes on the palate, Tesoro Azul Blanco is crisp, clean, and truly represents Los Altos tequila. Thanks to Alejandro Patterson and the team for the amazing distillery tour. If you want a tequila that represents craftsmanship and authenticity, Tesoro Azul Tequila is a must-try. Have you tried Tesoro Azul Blanco? Comment below! Subscribe to Tasting Tequila with Brad for more reviews, interviews, and tastings. ⸻ #TesoroAzulTequila #TequilaReview #BlancoTequila #TastingTequilaWithBrad #TequilaTasting #TequilaFans #TequilaTime #AgaveSpirits #TequilaLovers #AuthenticTequila

Atanasio Reposado Tequila Review! In this Atanasio Reposado review, we explore the story, production, and flavor of this pure agave tequila. Atanasio Reposado is aged only 3 months in white oak barrels, keeping agave at the center. In this tequila review, you’ll see why Atanasio Tequila stands out for its purity, tradition, and balance of oak and agave. On our last trip to Tequila, we witnessed the unveiling of Atanasio’s new brick oven, showing their dedication to traditional methods. From 100% Blue Weber agave grown 6–7 years, open-air fermentation, and careful double distillation, Atanasio Reposado delivers true craftsmanship in every sip. Watch the full review now and discover why Atanasio Reposado deserves a place on your tequila shelf. Subscribe to @TastingTequilawithBrad for more tequila reviews, interviews, and stories!

Discover the top 3 eco-friendly tequila brands making a difference! From Mijenta Tequila, G4 Tequila, and Patrón Tequila, learn how sustainability meets flavor. These eco-friendly tequilas are changing the industry with green practices, innovative distilleries, and carbon-neutral production. By choosing these tequilas, you’re not just sipping — you’re supporting a cleaner planet . Which sustainable tequila are you most excited to try? Comment below! Subscribe to Tasting Tequila with Brad for more tequila reviews, interviews, and eco-conscious spirits. #EcoFriendlyTequila #SustainableTequila #TopTequilaBrands #TequilaReview #TequilaTasting

Tesoro Azul Tequila, Alejandro Patterson, and celebrity tequila done right. In this exclusive Tesoro Azul Tequila interview, Alejandro Patterson shares the story, tradition, and passion behind Tesoro Azul Tequila. Discover how co-founder Alejandro Patterson keeps the brand authentic, crafted with agaves from Jesús María, NOM 1416, and backed by Mexican music legend Marco Antonio Solís. If you love additive-free tequila, tradition, and learning from industry insiders, this interview is for you. Subscribe for more tequila reviews, interviews, and behind-the-scenes stories. #TesoroAzulTequila #AlejandroPatterson #CelebrityTequila #TequilaInterview #AdditiveFreeTequila #AgaveSpirits #TequilaLovers #TequilaReview #MarcoAntonioSolis #TequilaTalk

Discover the rare Inspiro Rosé Añejo Tequila in this exclusive review. Only 900 bottles were produced, making it one of the most unique and collectible tequilas. Inspiro Rosé Añejo Tequila delivers notes of cinnamon, port, cherry, butterscotch, spice, and a buttery long-lasting finish. Crafted under master distiller Ana María Romero Mena, Inspiro Tequila is additive-free and aged in rosé and pinot noir barrels. Want to try Inspiro for yourself? Order directly at www.inspirotequila.com and experience this limited release before it’s gone! Don’t miss my interview with founder Mara Smith for the full Inspiro Tequila story — linked here and in the description. ⸻ #InspiroTequila #InspiroAñejo #RoséAñejo #RareTequila #TequilaReview #AñejoTequila #LimitedEditionTequila #TequilaLovers #AdditiveFreeTequila #MaraSmith

You’re tasting tequila WRONG! In this video, Brad Niccum breaks down how to taste tequila like a pro. Forget salt, forget lime—this is the real way to taste tequila, enjoy tequila, and experience tequila the way the makers intended. Using expert tasting steps, I’ll show you how to nose, sip, and savor tequila like Sergio Cruz, John DeRozier of Cambio, Chris Mano of Palenque, and other masters of the craft. If you love G4 Reposado, Blanco, or Añejo, this guide is for you. Learn the 5 steps experts use to taste tequila, pick out aromas, and appreciate agave spirits the right way. Drop your tequila tasting questions in the comments! Watch my blind tastings & reviews: @TastingTequilawithBrad #Tequila #TequilaTasting #HowToDrinkTequila #TastingTequilaWithBrad #TequilaReview #AgaveSpirits #TequilaTips #TequilaEducation

What makes Cambio Reposado Tequila so special? In this review, I explore the unique barrel aging of Cambio Reposado Tequila—finished in Burgundy, Bordeaux, and French Oak Chardonnay casks. This reposado is unlike any other in the tequila world. With tropical fruits, white flowers, butterscotch, almonds, and vanilla, Cambio delivers a long, balanced oak finish. Join me as I review Cambio Reposado Tequila, share tasting notes, and highlight my interview with the creator, Chief John De Roses. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more reviews of artisanal, additive-free tequila. Salud! ⸻ #CambioTequila #ReposadoTequila #TequilaReview #CambioReposado #TastingTequilaWithBrad #AdditiveFreeTequila #TequilaTasting #TequilaCommunity #tequilalovers

How did a mom start her own tequila brand? Meet Mara Smith, founder of Inspiro Tequila. In this inspiring interview, Mara shares her journey from lawyer and strategist to launching Inspiro Tequila, a clean, additive-free tequila brand. Inspiro Tequila was created to empower women, celebrate authenticity, and bring innovation to the tequila industry. In this conversation, we cover: • How Mara Smith transitioned from law to tequila entrepreneurship • Building Inspiro Tequila in a male-dominated industry • Female empowerment and empathy in leadership • Inspiro’s innovative rosé barrel aging process • The journey to achieving B Corp certification • Future tequila trends and inspiring lessons for entrepreneurs Share your thoughts in the comments: Who would you share a glass of tequila with? Subscribe to @TastingTequilaWithBrad for more inspiring tequila interviews.   #MaraSmith #InspiroTequila #WomenInBusiness #AdditiveFreeTequila #FemaleFounders #TequilaInterview #WomenInTequila #TastingTequilaWithBrad #TequilaCommunity #TequilaReview

Tequila myths busted! Did you know that a bottle labeled 100% agave tequila might still contain additives? In this video, I break down the truth about 100% agave tequila, explain what the CRT allows, and show you why labels don’t tell the full story. From caramel coloring to glycerin, oak extract, and vanilla, these hidden additives change the flavor of your tequila. We’ll explore tahona vs roller mill vs diffuser methods, why “additive free” claims were banned, and how to really know what’s in your glass. I’ll also share why third-party certifications like the Additive Free Alliance and apps like Tequila Matchmaker are essential. Drop your favorite tequila myths in the comments! Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this video to spread the truth about tequila #Tequila #TequilaMyths #TequilaReview #AdditiveFreeTequila #100Agave #TequilaEducation #AgaveSpirits #TequilaTasting #TequilaLovers #RealTequila