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!

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

This Isn’t 100% Agave… And It’s GREAT | El Tequileño Blanco Mixto Explained This isn’t 100% agave tequila — and it’s still great. In this video, I explain the real difference between 100% de agave tequila and mixto tequila using El Tequileño Blanco Mixto as the example. This isn’t 100% agave tequila — and it’s still great. In this video, I break down the real difference between 100% de agave tequila and mixto tequila, using El Tequileño Blanco Mixto as the perfect example. El Tequileño Blanco Mixto is made with 70% blue Weber agave and 30% piloncillo, rested for 14 days in American oak. It’s a traditional, budget-friendly tequila that has been used in Mexico for generations — especially in the legendary Batanga cocktail. We cover: • What “100% de agave” actually means • What mixto tequila really is (and what it isn’t) • Why El Tequileño Blanco Mixto works so well in cocktails • Tasting notes, texture, and finish • Why this mixto often outperforms some 100% agave tequilas in margaritas and Batangas This is tequila education without hype — just facts, history, and flavor. If you care about traditional tequila, additive-free production, and real-world drinking, you’re in the right place. Subscribe for honest tequila reviews, blind tastings, and interviews with people actually making tequila. © Tasting Tequila with Brad

Zero Proof vs Real Tequila | Blind Taste Test (Dry January) Blind tasting zero proof tequila alternatives vs real tequila for Dry January. Can non-alcoholic tequila actually taste like tequila? Let’s find out. Blind tasting zero proof tequila alternatives vs real tequila to answer the biggest Dry January question: Can non-alcoholic tequila actually taste like tequila? For this blind taste test, I removed all labels and tasted three pours side-by-side: • Almave (non-alcoholic agave spirit) • Ritual Zero Proof tequila alternative • **Siempre Tequila Blanco (real tequila) No bias. No labels. Just flavor. With Dry January growing every year, zero proof spirits are everywhere — but how close do they actually get to the real thing? In this video we break down aroma, palate, mouthfeel, and finish to see if flavor alone can replace alcohol. This video is for: • Dry January participants • Tequila lovers • Curious drinkers • Anyone exploring non-alcoholic spirits COMMENT BELOW Which one do YOU think is the real tequila? Like, subscribe, and share if you enjoy honest tequila education. © Tasting Tequila with Brad

They don’t just use coffee barrels — they char them first. In this clip, Mike Winters of Quintaliza Tequila explains why barrel char matters and how it changes tequila flavor. They don’t just use coffee barrels — they char them first In this clip, Mike Winters, founder of Quintaliza Tequila, explains why charring coffee barrels is a critical step in their tequila aging process and how barrel char impacts flavor, aroma, and balance. This isn’t flavored tequila. It’s intentional barrel treatment designed to control how tequila interacts with the wood. If you’re interested in tequila production, barrel aging techniques, or how innovation is changing tequila, this clip breaks it down simply and clearly. Let us know in the comments: Does charring barrels make sense for tequila? Like, subscribe, and turn on notifications for more tequila education, interviews, and behind-the-scenes content. https://siptequila.com/products/quintaliza-still-strength-reposado #QuintalizaTequila #TequilaBarrels #CoffeeBarrelAging #TequilaProcess #TequilaEducation #AgaveSpirits #AdditiveFreeTequila © Tasting Tequila with Brad 

Tapatio Blanco tequila is one of my all-time favorite traditional blancos — and it’s often misunderstood. Many people see the screw top and simple label and assume it’s cheap tequila. That couldn’t be more wrong. In this video, I talk about why the current Tapatio Blanco bottle and label are special, why they’re being phased out, and why you should buy this bottle if you see it. We also dive into the traditional production methods at La Alteña Distillery (NOM 1139), led by legendary master distiller Carlos Camarena. From tahona extraction and brick ovens to open-air fermentation and copper pot stills, this is tequila made the old-school way — with no additives and no shortcuts. If you care about real, agave-forward tequila, this bottle is a reference point. If you see this label on the shelf — don’t judge it. Buy it. Subscribe for more additive-free tequila reviews Drop a comment if Tapatio Blanco is one of your favorites #Tequila #BlancoTequila #Tahona #CarlosCamarena #LaAlteña #TraditionalTequila #TequilaEducation #agavespirits © Tasting Tequila with Brad

EL CORAZÓN from Cambio Tequila is one of the most intentional Blancos I’ve reviewed. This Cellar Series #4 Blanco was fermented at one-third the normal temperature and distilled using only the heart cut. EL CORAZÓN — Cambio Cellar Series #4 Blanco — is a tequila built around precision, restraint, and respect for agave. This 2023 release was fermented at extremely high sugar levels, more than double what most distilleries work with, and at exceptionally low temperatures, roughly one-third the temperature of traditional tequila fermentations. That slow, cold fermentation preserves delicate aromatics and builds texture before distillation even begins. During distillation, Cambio took an approach most producers simply can’t afford at scale: they captured only the heart of the run, discarding all heads and tails to preserve purity, texture, and clarity. In this video, I break down: • Why low-temperature fermentation matters • What heart-only distillation really means • Aroma, palate, mouthfeel, and finish • Why this Blanco is an exceptional sipping tequila If you watched my interview with Chief John, this bottle is the philosophy we discussed — made liquid. This is not a cocktail Blanco. This is a slow, intentional sipper. https://thetequilashop.net/products/cambio-cellar-series-4-el-corazon?variant=51628596560151 Sip responsibly, and respect the agave. #Tequila, #CambioTequila, #ELCORAZON, #AdditiveFreeTequila, #TequilaBlanco, #AgaveSpirits, #CraftTequila, #TequilaReview, #TequilaCommunity, #SipResponsibly © Tasting Tequila with Brad 

He risked everything to build Nosotros Tequila. In this exclusive interview, founder Carlos Soto shares how a 22-year-old college student turned a tequila class project into an award-winning brand. He risked everything to start a tequila brand — with just $18,000 and a college business plan. In this in-depth interview, I sit down with Carlos Soto, founder of Nosotros Tequila, to unpack the real story behind the brand. From withdrawing every dollar he had at 22 years old, to winning Double Gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, this is a raw, honest look at what it takes to build a tequila brand the right way. We cover: • How Nosotros started as a college project • Why Carlos blended Highland and Valley agave • What “clean tequila” really means • Additive-free production and fermentation choices • Mezcal vs tequila and wild agave education • The future of Nosotros and owning their own distillery If you care about real tequila stories, additive-free production, and the human side behind the bottle — this one’s for you. Learn more about Nosotros Tequila: https://nosotrostequila.com Subscribe for weekly tequila interviews, reviews, and education. Chapters 00:00 He Risked Everything 01:12 Who Is Carlos Soto? 03:10 A College Project That Became Nosotros Tequila 06:45 Taking Out $18,000 at 22 Years Old 09:30 Winning Double Gold (The Turning Point) 12:05 Highland vs Valley Agave Explained 15:40 Additive-Free Tequila & Clean Fermentation 18:30 Tasting Nosotros Blanco (Live Reaction) 22:15 How Nosotros Builds Flavor Without Additives 26:10 The Meaning Behind “Nosotros” 29:45 Reposado & Barrel Choices 33:20 Mezcal Education: Beyond Smoke 38:00 Wild Agave & Sustainable Mezcal 42:10 Investing in Their Own Distillery 45:30 The Future of Nosotros Tequila 48:40 Final Thoughts & Cheers #HeRiskedEverything #NosotrosTequila #TequilaInterview #AdditiveFreeTequila #TequilaStory #CarlosSoto #TequilaFounder #TequilaPodcast #CraftTequila #TequilaEducation #TequilaBusiness #AgaveSpirits #TequilaLife #TequilaCommunity #MezcalAndTequila © Tasting Tequila with Brad 

One tequila made from five different regions? In this review, I taste Mijenta Maestra Selection No. 2 Blanco and answer the big question — does blending agave from five regions actually work? One tequila. Five regions. Does it work? Today I’m reviewing Mijenta Tequila Maestra Selection No. 2, a limited-edition Blanco tequila that blends agave sourced from all five legally recognized tequila-producing regions of Mexico. This is not a typical Blanco. Each regional agave was fermented and distilled separately before being blended by Maestra Tequilera Ana María Romero — making this one of the most ambitious tequila projects currently on the market. ⚠️ Transparency note: This bottle was gifted to me. As always, that does not influence my opinion. Production Details • Cooking: Low-pressure autoclave • Extraction: Roller mill • Fermentation: Open-air stainless steel tanks • Distillation: Double distilled in copper stills • Aging: Unaged (Blanco) • ABV: 40% (80 proof) • Additives: None (Additive-free) In this video, we break down: ✔️ Why blending agave from multiple regions is controversial ✔️ How terroir affects Blanco tequila ✔️ Nose, palate, and finish tasting notes ✔️ Who this tequila is (and isn’t) for COMMENT BELOW Do you think tequila should stay regional — or is this the future? Like | Subscribe | Sip Smart #mijentatequila #tequilareview #blancotequila #additivefreetequila #tequilalover #tequilatasting #crafttequila #agavespirits #tequilenerd #premiumtequila © Tasting Tequila with Brad

High proof tequila can go wrong fast — unless it’s done right. Today I’m reviewing Primo Tequila High Proof, and sharing insights from my interview with Pedro Camarena on why this tequila delivers power without losing balance. High proof tequila is often misunderstood. Bigger ABV doesn’t automatically mean better flavor — unless the tequila is made with intention. In this video, I review Primo High Proof Tequila, a traditionally made tequila designed to preserve agave character while delivering intensity and structure. This isn’t high proof for shock value — it’s high proof done right. I recently sat down with Pedro Camarena, the mind behind Primo Tequila, and we discussed why this expression exists, how it’s produced, and what they were aiming for in the glass. That interview completely changed how I approached this tasting. Tasting Notes Covered: • Cooked agave-forward aroma • Controlled heat with balance • Citrus oils, minerality, and pepper • Long, clean, intentional finish This is a tequila made for enthusiasts who appreciate transparency, traditional methods, and honest flavor — not shortcuts. Watch the full interview with Pedro Camarena for deeper insight into Primo’s philosophy and production choices. If you enjoy high-proof tequila, additive-free tequila, or deep dives into how tequila is really made, this review is for you. ⸻ #HighProofTequila #PrimoTequila #TequilaReview #AdditiveFreeTequila #TequilaCommunity #TequilaEducation #AgaveSpirits #TequilaBlanco #CraftTequila #TastingTequilaWithBrad © Tasting Tequila with Brad =================================================