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!

Carabuena Reposado Review of this 2025 Gold Medal tequila from the Valley of Tequila, Jalisco. Is Carabuena Reposado just gold medal hype or genuine quality? This 100% Blue Weber agave tequila aged 5 months in American and French oak delivers balance, depth, and agave character. Carabuena is crafted from fully mature 6-year agave grown across 400+ acres owned and operated by the distiller. Slow cooked in traditional masonry ovens for 30–35 hours and double distilled in stainless steel and copper alembic stills, this juice-only distillation preserves natural flavor. Nose: Cooked agave, chamomile, dried apricot, peach, orange peel, vanilla, caramel, dark chocolate. Palate: Sweet cooked agave, dried fruit, roasted nuts, salted caramel, light coffee bitterness. Finish: Medium-long, warm, balanced, agave-forward. After sitting down with owner Victor Diaz, I dive deeper into whether this Valley Reposado earns its award — or if the medal is just marketing. Watch my full interview with Victor Diaz here: [insert link] Have you tried Carabuena? Drop your thoughts below. Subscribe for weekly tequila reviews and interviews. #TastingTequilaWithBrad #Carabuena #CarabuenaReposado #TequilaReview #GoldMedalTequila #ValleyTequila #BlueWeberAgave #Reposado #AdditiveFreeTequila © Tasting Tequila with Brad

Lost Lore Blanco review, mixto tequila explained, NOM 1414 tequila breakdown. This 70% agave / 30% cane sugar tequila challenges what you think about mixtos. Lost Lore On Premise Blanco is made at NOM 1414 in Los Altos, Jalisco — and yes, it’s legally a mixto tequila. But this isn’t your typical 51% diffuser-made mixto. In this episode of Tasting Tequila with Brad, I break down: • What a mixto tequila actually is • Why 70% agave / 30% cane sugar matters • Production details from harvest to distillation • 45% ABV (90 proof) tasting notes • Whether “mixto” automatically means low quality Production Details: NOM: 1414 Agave: 5-year Blue Weber Harvest: 1-inch cut Cooking: 24-hour stone/brick oven Extraction: Roller mill to 10 brix Fermentation: Rum yeast Blend: 70% agave / 30% cane sugar Distillation: Double distilled, copper pot still Alcohol cut: 55% before proofing Final Proof: 45% ABV (90 proof) This video is about education, not hype. Mixto tequila has a reputation — but production methods matter more than labels. If you enjoy honest tequila reviews, production deep dives, and real talk about agave spirits, subscribe and join the conversation. Subscribe for more tequila reviews Like the video if you learned something Comment: Is mixto always bad? #TastingTequilaWithBrad #LostLoreTequila #MixtoTequila #TequilaReview © Tasting Tequila with Brad

rsations • Behind-the-brand interviews —you’re in the right place. Drop a comment: Which chapter are you reaching for — 3 or 4? ⸻ Featured in This Video ✔ Manuscrito Chapter 3 Reposado ✔ Manuscrito Chapter 4 High Proof ✔ Barrel discussion (Chardonnay influence) ✔ Full tasting notes ✔ Brand story with Jake Taylor ⸻ Call to Action If you enjoy honest tequila reviews, distillery insights, and conversations with the people behind the bottles: Hit LIKE SUBSCRIBE to Tasting Tequila with Brad Share with your agave crew Chapters 00:00 A Surprise Visit and Tequila Tasting 03:03 The Story Behind Manuscripto Tequila 05:45 Label Design and Storytelling 08:26 The Unique Characteristics of Chapter Three 11:36 Exploring Chapter Four: High Proof Reposado 14:36 The Role of Barrels in Flavor Development 17:18 The Importance of Master Distillers 20:37 Final Thoughts and Future Plans #Manuscrito #TequilaReview #AdditiveFree #HighProofTequila #ReposadoTequila #TequilaLovers #AgaveSpirits #TastingTequilaWithBrad #CraftTequila #tequilatime © Tasting Tequila with Brad

Still strength tequila blind tasting winners go head-to-head in this ultimate drink-off. Tapatio 110, Cascahuin 48, Nocturna Alma del Jaguar, and Manuscrito battle to see who truly stands on top. These four bottles didn’t just score well — they won their individual blind tastings on Tasting Tequila with Brad. No labels. No hype. Just agave, proof, and craftsmanship. Now we’re putting the champions together in one final showdown. In this video: • What makes still strength tequila different • Why these four won blind • Nose, palate, and finish comparisons • Which one carries proof with the most balance If you love additive-free tequila, high proof blanco, and blind tasting battles — this is the drink-off you don’t want to miss. Drop your pick in the comments — who wins YOUR glass? #StillStrengthTequila #BlindTasting #TequilaReview #HighProofTequila © Tasting Tequila with Brad

Nosotros x Chespirito Tequila Joven review. This limited edition joven tequila honors Roberto Gómez Bolaños (Chespirito) with an additive-free blend of reposado and blanco crafted in traditional brick ovens. Nosotros x Chespirito Tequila Joven review. This limited edition joven tequila honors Roberto Gómez Bolaños (Chespirito) with an additive-free blend of 80% Nosotros Reposado and 20% Nosotros Blanco, crafted using traditional brick ovens and 100% recycled glass packaging. In this video, I break down: • The full story behind the Chespirito tribute • My interview with Carlos Soto of Nosotros Tequila • What makes this joven different • Fresh pop tasting notes (nose, palate, finish) • Whether this bottle is worth opening or collecting This isn’t just another tequila review. It’s about culture, family, and why some bottles carry more meaning than just what’s in the glass. Nosotros is a member of the Additive Free Alliance and produces tequila using traditional methods with no additives. Drop a comment: Would you open this bottle or save it? Subscribe for honest additive-free tequila reviews and interviews with founders and master distillers. Get a bottle here https://thetequilashop.net/products/nosotros-joven-chespirito-edition?variant=51770837369111 #TequilaReview #NosotrosTequila #AdditiveFreeTequila #Chespirito #TequilaJoven © Tasting Tequila with Brad

The Celebrity Tequila Done Right | INSÓLITO Tequila Blanco Review INSÓLITO Tequila Blanco review — an additive-free, high-altitude tequila made by real distillers, not hype. Is this the celebrity tequila that finally gets it right? Let’s taste and break it down. INSÓLITO Tequila Blanco is a celebrity-backed tequila that actually respects tradition. In this review, I break down the brand story, production methods, and tasting notes to see whether INSÓLITO lives up to the hype — or rises above it. Made at NOM 1558 in Mazamitla, Jalisco, INSÓLITO is produced at high altitude using 100% Blue Weber agave, low-pressure autoclave cooking, roller mill extraction, stainless steel fermentation, and double distillation. Most importantly, it’s confirmed additive-free. INSÓLITO is owned by a partnership between the country band Midland, master distillers Octavio and Alberto Herrera, and Pete Kelly of Spirits Innovation Partners. This isn’t a celebrity cash-grab — it’s a thoughtfully produced tequila designed to be clean, balanced, and approachable. In this video: • INSÓLITO Tequila brand story • Celebrity tequila vs traditional tequila • Production details (NOM 1558, high altitude, no additives) • INSÓLITO Blanco tasting notes (nose, palate, finish) • Who this tequila is actually for If you’re tired of celebrity tequilas cutting corners, this review might surprise you. Is INSÓLITO the celebrity tequila done right? ⸻ CALL TO ACTION (Pinned Comment + Verbal CTA) If you enjoy real, additive-free tequila reviews, hit Subscribe Like the video if you want more honest tequila breakdowns Comment below — have you tried INSÓLITO yet? Your support helps me keep highlighting tequila made the right way. © Tasting Tequila with Brad

Carabuena Tequila founder Victor Diaz went from bartender at 15 to tequila brand owner in Texas. In this interview we dive into additive-free tequila production, NOM 1564 La Misión, and the 13-year grind behind Carabuena. Carabuena Tequila founder Victor Diaz shares the incredible journey from bartending at age 15 in Guadalajara, Jalisco to building his own tequila brand in Texas. In this exclusive Tasting Tequila with Brad interview, we cover: • Starting the dream in 2009 • Launching in 2022 after 13 years of grinding • Switching distilleries to NOM 1564 (La Misión, San Juanito Escobedo) • 100% Blue Weber agave grown in-house (28–32 brix) • Stone/brick oven cooking (40–50 hours) • Open fermentation • Copper pot distillation • French & American oak aging (Reposado & Añejo) • Additive-free tequila • Growing to 100+ accounts across Texas This is more than a tequila interview — it’s an entrepreneur story about resilience, culture, and never giving up. If you love additive-free tequila, small-batch brands, or inspiring founder stories, this episode is for you. Check out Carabuena Tequila: https://carabuenatequila.com Follow Victor Diaz Instagram: @carabuenatequila Let me know in the comments: Would you chase your dream for 13 years? © Tasting Tequila with Brad

Rare Fortaleza Find | Fortaleza Blanco Lot 200B Review (Bagazo Fermentation) Fortaleza Blanco Lot 200B is a rare, limited-release tequila celebrating Fortaleza’s 200th batch. This special Blanco uses bagazo (agave fibers) during fermentation, creating a richer, earthier agave profile. In this review, I break down how Lot 200B is made, how it tastes, and why collectors consider it a unicorn bottle. Fortaleza Lot 200B is unlike standard Fortaleza Blanco. While the distillery’s traditional methods remain — brick ovens, tahona crushing, open fermentation, and copper pot distillation — this batch keeps agave fibers in the fermentation tank, adding texture, depth, and intensity to the final spirit. In this video, I cover: • What makes Fortaleza Blanco Lot 200B different • Bagazo fermentation explained • Tasting notes: nose, palate, and finish • Why Lot 200B is considered a rare collector bottle • How it compares to regular Fortaleza Blanco This is a tequila meant to be sipped neat and appreciated as a snapshot of Fortaleza Tequila craftsmanship at a specific moment in time. Subscribe for additive-free tequila reviews, rare agave finds, and distillery stories. © Tasting Tequila with Brad

Pantera de Oro Extra Añejo Review | Cask Strength Blind Tasting Standout (#2 Overall) Pantera de Oro Extra Añejo is a cask strength tequila that finished #2 overall in my Extra Añejo blind tasting. In this review, I break down the production, NOM 1608, aging philosophy, and tasting notes behind this standout tequila. Pantera de Oro Extra Añejo is a cask strength tequila that finished #2 overall in my Extra Añejo blind tasting — tasted completely blind. In this review, I break down the production details, NOM 1608, aging philosophy, and full tasting notes behind this refined and powerful Extra Añejo tequila. Pantera de Oro was created by Scott Baird, an industry veteran with more than 20 years in spirits and hospitality. Scott played a key role in launching Tequila Ocho and Ancho Reyes in the U.S. market and set out to create an Extra Añejo focused on balance, finesse, and agave purity — not just oak. This tequila is produced at NOM 1608 in the Tequila Valley, a distillery built for precision. Pantera de Oro uses fully mature 100% Blue Weber agave (30+ Brix), cooked 60% in stone ovens and 40% in autoclave, then aged over three and a half years in a thoughtful barrel program of 50% French oak and 50% American oak. Bottled at 53% ABV (cask strength) with no additives, Pantera de Oro delivers a rich, layered Extra Añejo profile that leans more Armagnac and Calvados than bourbon. In this video: • Pantera de Oro brand story • Scott Baird interview insights • NOM 1608 production breakdown • Aging and barrel philosophy • Full nose, palate, and finish tasting notes • Blind tasting results and final thoughts If you’re into additive-free tequila, Extra Añejo reviews, or blind tequila tastings, this one is for you. Watch the full interview with Scott Baird next Subscribe for more blind tastings, distillery stories, and honest tequila reviews Salud! © Tasting Tequila with Brad

FIRST TAHONA | Lost Lore’s Boldest Move in Tequila Lost Lore Tahona Blanco is Lost Lore’s FIRST-EVER tahona tequila. In this tequila review, I break down this tahona-crushed blanco tequila from Los Altos de Jalisco, made using traditional stone tahona methods and bottled at 86 proof. This is a traditionally made, additive-free style tequila that leans fully into ancestral production, slow brick-oven cooking, and agave-forward flavor. Tahona extraction is slower and more expensive than modern roller mills, but it delivers deeper minerality, richer texture, and true agave character. Crafted under the direction of Sergio Cruz, this blanco highlights why tahona still matters in modern tequila. In this video: • Why this is Lost Lore’s first tahona tequila • How tahona crushing changes tequila flavor • Production details from agave to bottle • Full tasting notes: nose, palate, and finish • Who this tequila is really for Drop a comment below Are you team tahona or team roller mill? © Tasting Tequila with Brad ============================