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!

Arisagada Tequila is one of the most traditional and authentic tequilas being made today. Cooked underground, mashed by hand in a wooden canoe with mallets, fermented in wooden tinas, and wood-fire distilled in copper — this tequila is made the way tequila, raicilla, and mezcal were produced in the 1800s. In this review, Brad breaks down the production methods, aroma, tasting notes, finish, and the story behind Roberto Real and how he brought this ancestral style to NOM 1459. This brand is about to become more widely available through Package Group, so keep your eye on it! If you love real agave, no additives, heritage production, and flavor complexity, this is a tequila you’ll want to try. Watch the interview with Roberto Real here: https://youtu.be/V26KoPMU_OI Tasting Notes: • Nose: Cooked agave, light smoke, vegetal notes, clove, jalapeño, hint of asparagus • Palate: Agave sweetness, purple grape, pear, subtle vanilla, developing into pepper and herbal/green notes • Finish: Jalapeño, mint, evolving complexity with every sip If you enjoyed this, please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE with friends who love real tequila. Drop a comment: Have you tried Arisagada or another ancestral-style tequila? Cheers Have a glass of tradition tonight.

NueveUno Reposado Tequila Review | The Most Underrated Tequila You Need to Try! Is NueveUno the most underrated tequila out there? In this episode of Tasting Tequila with Brad, we’re diving into one of the most overlooked brands on the market — NueveUno Reposado. Crafted at NOM 1426 by master distiller Nohemí Partida, this tequila delivers a rich, complex experience that rivals bottles twice its price. Production Details: • NOM: 1426 (Tequila Selecto de Amatitán) • Agave Type: Tequilana Weber (Jalisco, Tequila Valley) • Cooking: Stone/Brick Ovens • Extraction: Roller Mill • Fermentation: Open-air, 100% agave, stainless tanks • Distillation: Twice distilled in stainless steel pots • Aging: American White Oak bourbon barrels • ABV: 40% (80 proof) • Certifications: Organic, Kosher Tasting Notes: • Visual: Intense golden color with bright, luminous hues. • Aroma: Dried fruits, caramel, vanilla, preserved cherries, and nutmeg with cooked agave. • Taste: Buttery caramel, oak spice, vanilla, and cooked agave — smooth with a warm finish. If you love brands like Fortaleza, G4, and El Tesoro, NueveUno might be your next go-to bottle. It’s a tequila that deserves way more attention — elegant, traditional, and bursting with authentic flavor. Join the Conversation: Have you tried NueveUno? What’s your pick for the most underrated tequila on the market? Drop a comment below! Watch More: • Interview with Alec Baca – NueveUno Brand Manager • Review of NueveUno Blanco • Tasting Tequila with Brad playlists: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEMxOAtDtsjivivQ-_VU39DKCTgJk-l-5 Subscribe for More Tequila Reviews & Interviews:  @Tastingtequilawithbrad  Weekly reviews, distillery deep dives, and brand stories you won’t want to miss. #NueveUnoTequila #TequilaReview #UnderratedTequila #TastingTequilaWithBrad #ReposadoTequila #TequilaLovers #AdditiveFreeTequila #OrganicTequila #TequilaCommunity #BradNiccum

Maxwell Park Tequila Blanco is more than a drink — it’s a story of culture, craftsmanship, and connection. From the hills of Jalisco to the streets of Oakland, Maxwell Park Tequila Blanco honors community, authenticity, and tradition. In this episode of Tasting Tequila with Brad, I sit down to taste this small-batch, additive-free tequila created by actor and founder Dominick Wilkins. Made at NOM 1499 in Los Altos de Jalisco, it features slow-roasted agave, open-air fermentation, and sustainable production. Tasting Notes: • Nose – Cooked agave, red apple, quince, and floral fruit • Palate – Agave sweetness, pepper, cinnamon, pineapple & mango • Finish – Silky, long, and smooth Watch the full interview with Dominick Wilkins to hear how Maxwell Park Tequila was born and why it stands for connection and community. Subscribe for more additive-free tequila reviews, brand stories, and interviews every week! #TastingTequilaWithBrad #MaxwellParkTequila #AdditiveFreeTequila #TequilaReview #TequilaLovers #JaliscoTequila #OaklandSpirit #DominickWilkins #SmallBatchTequila #AuthenticTequila #HighlandsTequila #TequilaWithHeart

Christiane Maertens of VALOR Tequila joins me to talk tequila with a purpose, the Gente Buena Foundation, the Good Agave Pledge, additive-free tequila, tasting panels in Jalisco, and our upcoming single-barrel Añejo collab—100% of profits go to Gente Buena. We also discuss Batch 2 ABV decisions, a new high-proof release, cistern projects bringing water access to families, and how brands can create real community impact. Support the mission / learn more: https://www.pledge.to/gente-buena-foundation Grab VALOR Tequila: https://drinkvalor.com/ Subscribe for more interviews & reviews:  @Tastingtequilawithbrad  What you’ll learn • Why “tequila with a purpose” matters (and how it works) • Batch 1 → Batch 2 ABV panels & the new high-proof drop • How cistern installs transform households in Tequila, Jalisco • The Good Agave Pledge: brands teaming up for impact • Details on our charity single-barrel Añejo About this episode We highlight additive-free production, sustainability, and shared prosperity in agave communities—plus practical ways viewers can help (even $10 moves the needle for water access). #ValorTequila #TequilaWithPurpose #GenteBuena #GoodAgavePledge #AdditiveFree #Agave #TequilaInterview #Jalisco #Sustainability #WaterAccess

Carabuena Tequila Blanco Review — Pure Agave. No Gimmicks. Made at NOM 1641 in the Tequila Valley, Carabuena Tequila represents tradition, patience, and purpose. Crafted by Victor Díaz, this additive-free Blanco tequila captures everything we love about real agave: stone-oven roasting, open-air fermentation, and copper pot distillation. In this video, Brad from Tasting Tequila with Brad dives into the full story behind Carabuena, from its sustainable production to its award-winning flavor — Double Gold at the 2025 Agavos Awards and Silver at the 2024 IWSC. Taste notes: pineapple, lime, white flowers, and that signature pepper finish that defines a true valley-style tequila. Watch to see if Carabuena Tequila Blanco deserves a spot on your shelf. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more reviews and interviews with tequila makers who do it right. #CarabuenaTequila #BlancoTequila #AdditiveFreeTequila #TastingTequilaWithBrad #TequilaReview #PureAgave #NOM1641 #TequilaValley #SustainableTequila #AgaveSpirits

Sake Yeast in Tequila?! That’s right — today on Tasting Tequila with Brad, I’m reviewing Tequila Rimari Reposado, an additive-free tequila made with sake yeast fermentation, roasted in traditional stone ovens, and crafted using the Mozart Method under master distiller Sergio Cruz at NOM 1414 in the highlands of Jalisco, Mexico. This is where innovation meets tradition — and the results might surprise you. Tequila Rimari was founded by Dheeraj Naidu and Vrunda Parekh, who set out to create an honest, responsibly made tequila that stands apart. Estate-grown agave, copper-still distillation, American oak aging, and zero additives — all blended into a reposado that balances warm vanilla, caramel, and floral agave brightness. In this video, I break down the nose, palate, and finish of Rimari Reposado, talk about sake yeast in tequila, and share why Sergio Cruz’s meticulous approach makes Rimari one of the most interesting new brands out of Jalisco. Stay tuned — my full interview with Rimari founders Dheeraj and Vrunda drops soon! Watch next: “Sergio Cruz: The Quiet Genius Behind Jalisco’s Best Tequilas” “Discover Where Your Tequila Really Comes From!” Drop a comment — is the Mozart Method genius or gimmick? Subscribe for more tequila reviews, distillery stories, and interviews every week! @TastingTequilaWithBrad #TequilaRimari #RimariReposado #TastingTequilaWithBrad #TequilaReview #SakeYeastTequila #SergioCruz #AdditiveFreeTequila #NOM1414 #TequilaMadeRight #MozartMethod #ReposadoTequila #HighlandsTequila #TequilaLovers #JaliscoTequila #TequilaTasting

5 new tequilas that stood out in October — each crafted with passion, tradition, and purpose. In this episode of Tasting Tequila with Brad, I’m sharing five bottles that truly impressed me this month, from additive-free purity to innovative production methods. These are 5 tequilas that stood out in October for flavor, craftsmanship, and authenticity. Featuring: Socorro Reposado (NOM 1610) — Purpose-driven tequila from Arandas with the Case for a Case water initiative. La Pulga Blanco (NOM 1068) — The antidote to celebrity booze from Fort Worth founders Sarah Castillo, Andrew De La Torre & Stephen Slaughter. Rimari Reposado (NOM 1414) — Crafted by master distiller Sergio Cruz using sake yeast and the Mozart Method. Yéyo Rosa Reposado (NOM 1414) — A vibrant, floral Rosa Reposado with depth and elegance. Cultura 100 High Proof Blanco (NOM 1599) — Bold and pure, made for true agave lovers. If you love additive-free tequila, high-proof expressions, and authentic agave spirits, you’ll want to watch this one. These brands represent where the tequila world is heading — innovation, integrity, and heart. Watch next: Interview with Socorro Co-Founder Pablo Antinori Rimari Tequila Review Cultura 100 High Proof Adventure in Arandas Subscribe to Tasting Tequila with Brad for more reviews, interviews, and behind-the-scenes stories from the world of agave spirits! Drop your favorite October tequila in the comments below — I love hearing what you’re sipping. Subscribe for weekly reviews, interviews, and tequila stories:  @Tastingtequilawithbrad  Like this video if you love discovering new tequilas! Hit the bell so you don’t miss the next Tasting Tequila with Brad pour.

Zumbador Añejo Tequila Review — Is this the best budget Añejo on the market? In this video I break down Zumbador Añejo Tequila, crafted by master distiller Roberto López, who not only owns the agave fields but also built the distillery and manages the entire process hands-on. This is a $45 Añejo that tastes far above its price point. Produced in the Highlands near Jesús María using traditional methods — stone ovens, a tahona + roller mill extraction blend, wild fermentation (wood + stainless), and copper pot distillation, then aged ~14 months in American whiskey barrels — Zumbador proves you don’t need a celebrity label or additives to get flavor and character. Nose: Toasted agave, caramel, wet earth minerality, floral lime Taste: Cooked agave sweetness, vanilla, caramel, pineapple warmth, earthy barrel spice Finish: Long, clean, lightly minty with a peppery tail If you’re new to tequila or want a sipping Añejo that won’t break the bank, look for this bottle. In Indiana, you’ll see it through LuxBev. Otherwise, use the store locator at Zumbador’s website to find your state. WATCH THE FULL INTERVIEW with Roberto & importer Sarah — the story behind the distillery, the land, and the three hummingbirds: https://youtu.be/Qery5Lk6KEo If you’ve tried Zumbador — drop your tasting notes in the comments. I love hearing what other agave heads pick up. — Brad Tasting Tequila with Brad #Zumbador #AnejoTequila #TequilaReview #TastingTequilaWithBrad #BudgetTequila #AdditiveFreeTequila #AgaveSpirits

Cultura 100 Tequila, Cultura 100 Tequila, Cultura 100 Tequila. This isn’t just another tequila review… I was actually there in Arandas, Jalisco helping Sergio Cruz and the crew finalize the new Cultura 100 High Proof Blanco (54% ABV / 108 proof) — and we did it after riding razors through the highlands of Jalisco at sunset. In this video, I break down: • The razor ride adventure with Sergio Cruz, Jeff Boitman, Keith Bogart, Ken Eyre, Jesse + the Sip and Celebrate guys • How we blind-tasted 54%, 53%, & 52% proofs to land on the magic blend • Why high proof tequila gives you the deepest agave flavor • The signature 1414 profile: citrus, cooked agave, minerality, jalapeño + orange blossom floral notes • And my full tasting notes on the final bottled version If you love additive-free tequila, Los Altos production, and the process, this one’s for you. Drop a comment if you’ve tried Cultura — and tell me what proof YOU think is ideal. ➡️ SUBSCRIBE for more in-depth tequila reviews, interviews, distillery visits, and behind-the-scenes content: #Cultura100 #HighProofTequila #TequilaReview #AdditiveFreeTequila #NOM1414 #SergioCruz #TastingTequilaWithBrad #AgaveSpirits #LosAltosJalisco #BlancoTequila #TequilaTasting

Socorro Tequila is literally flying high — it’s the tequila being poured on American Airlines! ✈️ In this exclusive Tasting Tequila with Brad interview, Brad sits down with Pablo Antinori, co-founder of Socorro Tequila, to talk about how the brand started, why authenticity and giving back matter, and how they landed on American Airlines flights. Learn the inspiring story behind their Case for a Case water initiative, how they craft their tequila in Arandas using traditional methods, and what makes Socorro one of the fastest-growing premium tequila brands in the U.S. Watch now and discover why Socorro Tequila is taking off at 30,000 feet! Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and comment your favorite Socorro expression below! YouTube: @TastingTequilaWithBrad Instagram: @TastingTequilaWithBrad Facebook: Tasting Tequila with Brad Learn more about Socorro Tequila: socorrotequila.com @SocorroTequila Call to Action Subscribe for more behind-the-scenes interviews with the people shaping tequila’s future! Watch more episodes of Tasting Tequila with Brad — where passion meets agave. Comment your favorite inflight tequila moment! #SocorroTequila #TastingTequilaWithBrad #PabloAntinori #TequilaInterview #AmericanAirlines #CraftTequila #AgaveSpirit #AdditiveFreeTequila #TequilaCommunity #CaseForACase #TequilaStory #JaliscoTequila #FlyingHigh #TequilaLovers #PremiumTequila