Explore every episode of the podcast The Agave Social Club

What does it mean to carry a tequila legacy forward?

In this episode of The Agave Social Club Podcast, I’m joined by Bryan Tillbury, Alex Orendain, and Eduardo Jr. Orendain of Tequila Arette for a conversation that goes far beyond what’s inside the bottle.

Arette has a history deeply connected to the Orendain family and the tequila-making traditions of Tequila, Jalisco. We talk about where the brand came from, the meaning behind the name Arette, and what it means for the next generation of the family to carry that legacy forward.

We also get into the tequila itself and take a closer look at both the Classico and Artesanal lines, including how they are produced and the differences between the two.

But perhaps the biggest theme throughout this conversation is legacy—what has been passed down, what has changed, and what Alex and Eduardo Jr. hope to preserve for the generations that come next.

This was a special conversation for me because I’ve had the opportunity to spend time with the Orendain family in Jalisco and see firsthand the people, history, and passion behind Arette.

There’s a lot more to tequila than what happens when you open the bottle.

Sometimes, the best stories are about the people who have been making it for generations.

Welcome to the story of Tequila Arette.

McCauley Williams is back on The Agave Social Club Podcast.

Since his last visit, a lot has changed. In this conversation, we catch up on everything happening with Alma del Jaguar Tequila, including what’s next for the brand and the upcoming Barricas Series. We also dive into McCauley’s newest venture, Duck Club Bourbon, and what it takes to build a spirits brand from the ground up.

But this conversation goes beyond what’s in the bottle.

Both Alma del Jaguar and Duck Club are built around a larger purpose—using spirits as a vehicle to support conservation and give back to the lands and communities that make these brands possible.

McCauley and I talk about the challenges of starting a brand, the realities of growing in an increasingly crowded spirits industry, why authenticity matters, and what it really takes to build something that can have an impact beyond the bottle.

Come live vicariously through me as I spend a week in Mexico working with Arette, spending time with friends, exploring some incredible distilleries, and continuing to show my wife just how special this place is to me.

There was tequila, of course. A lot of it.  But there was so much more—old friends, new friends, great food, long days, unexpected adventures, and those moments that remind me why I keep coming back to Jalisco.

This was one of those trips where the work never really felt like work, and I found myself incredibly grateful for the opportunity to experience it all with the people I care about.

So come along for the ride. 

In this episode of The Agave Social Club Podcast, I sit down with Javier Jimenez of Caballito Cerrero for a deep dive into one of the most fascinating family stories in the world of agave spirits.

We explore the Jimenez family’s multigenerational legacy, the history of their original hacienda and distillery, and how that heritage continues to shape every bottle produced today. Javier shares stories passed down through the family, the evolution of their production methods, and why preserving traditional practices remains so important in an industry that is constantly changing.

 If you’re interested in the roots of authentic agave spirits and the people working to preserve them, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. 

Looking to join the Agave Social Club Membership? Check out https://www.theagavesocialclub.com/store/p/the-agave-social-club-membership

This is the second interview I did with Tesoro Azul as I was with them for a few days spanning Michoacan to Jalisco. In this part 2 of the interview I sat down with Jose Monroy Garcia as he shares his passion for the brand and for all things Michoacan. 

In this episode of The Agave Social Club Podcast, I sit down with Alejandro Warren Patterson of Tesoro Azul to explore the story behind the brand's rebirth and the vision driving its future.

After spending several days with the Tesoro Azul team in both Michoacán and Jalisco, I had the opportunity to learn firsthand about the people, places, and traditions that have shaped the brand. Our conversation covers the deep connection Tesoro Azul has to Michoacán, the role legendary artist Marco Antonio Solís has played in the brand's revival, and how those roots continue to influence its identity today.

We also take a closer look at the tequila itself, discussing production at Productos Finos de Agave, the importance of Highland-grown agave, and the decisions that go into creating a tequila that honors both tradition and quality.

Whether you're interested in the stories behind tequila brands, production methods, or the people bringing new energy to the category, this is a conversation you won't want to miss.

Pour yourself a glass and join us for this conversation with Alejandro Warren Patterson.

In this special long-form conversation from The Agave Social Club, we sit down with David Rodríguez, master distiller of PATRÓN Tequila, alongside brand ambassador Roberto Núñez Moreno, to discuss the legacy of one of the world's most influential tequila brands.

We explore David’s journey with PATRÓN, the craftsmanship and responsibility behind producing tequila at a global scale, and how the brand helped redefine premium tequila for modern consumers. Roberto shares insight into the culture of PATRÓN, its connection to the community, and the role education plays in today’s tequila landscape.

The conversation also dives into the release of PATRÓN 100 — a 100% tahona-milled, 100 proof tequila that delivers the full character of the agave. Produced exclusively through the centuries-old tahona process, every drop is crushed by a volcanic stone wheel to unlock deeper, more complex flavor. 

To learn more about PATRÓN 100, be sure to check out https://www.patrontequila.com/

For this episode of The Agave Social Club, we sit down with legendary master distiller Julio Cova to discuss his incredible 40-year journey through the tequila industry, the evolution of modern tequila production, and what ultimately brought him out of retirement to partner with Dos Hombres Tequila.

Julio shares stories from decades spent crafting tequila in Jalisco, the lessons he has learned through generations of agave cultivation and distillation, and why passion for the craft never truly leaves you. We also dive into the creation of the new Dos Hombres tequila lineup and how the partnership with Bryan Cranston and Aaron Paul came together through a shared respect for tradition, patience, and quality.

Throughout the conversation, Julio opens up about the importance of agave maturity and fermentation, and why authenticity still matters in today’s tequila boom. 

If you’re passionate about tequila, agave spirits, and the people behind the bottle, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

To learn more about Dos Hombres Tequila, you can go to https://www.doshombres.com/

In this episode, we sit down with Allie Morris, Chief Marketing Officer of El Bandido Yankee Tequila—a brand that’s been making serious noise by blending authentic production methods with bold, modern storytelling.

Allie takes us inside what it really means to build a tequila brand in today’s crowded market. From honoring traditional processes at a historic distillery to shaping a voice that resonates with a new generation of drinkers, she shares how El Bandido Yankee is carving out its identity without cutting corners.

We also get into the realities of marketing tequila in 2026—what consumers care about, how transparency plays a role and some hints at what's next for the brand. 

Learn more about El Bandido Yankee Tequila at https://elbandidoyankee.com/

 Follow The Agave Social Club for more conversations with the people shaping tequila @agavesocialclub

In this episode of Agave Social Club, we sit down with JuanMa Trujillo, founder of Tequila Trujillo, to explore a story that starts long before tequila ever entered the picture.

Coming from a family deeply rooted in the agave industry through agave nectar production, JuanMa brings a unique perspective to tequila—one that’s grounded in raw material, farming relationships, and a deep respect for the plant itself.

We dive into how that background shaped his approach to building Tequila Trujillo, his partnership with master distiller Victor, and the decisions that define the profile in the bottle. From production philosophy to flavor, this is a conversation about intention, legacy, and what it really takes to stand out in today’s tequila landscape. To learn more you can check out https://tequilatrujillo.com/

In this episode of Agave Social Club, we sit down with the team behind Point Blank Tequila, a brand that’s quickly making noise by combining tradition, transparency, and a bold vision for the future of agave spirits.

Joining us are:

• Andrew Summerset – Founder & Owner 
• Zandra Gomez Santiago – Master Distiller 
• Aldo Garcia – Representing a legacy tequila family as the son of Don Jose Garcia 

Together, they share the story behind Point Blank Tequila—from concept to bottle—and what it really takes to launch a new brand in one of the most competitive (and misunderstood) categories in spirits.

What We Cover:

•  The origin story of Point Blank Tequila and what sets it apart 
•  Zandra’s approach to distillation and honoring traditional methods 
•  The Garcia family legacy and how it influences production 
•  The realities of starting a tequila brand in today’s market 
•  Transparency, additives, and what consumers should be paying attention to 
•  The balance between innovation and respecting heritage 
•  Where Point Blank fits into the evolving tequila landscape 

 Connect with Point Blank Tequila:

Follow their journey and learn more about their releases, process, and philosophy https://pointblanktequila.com/

Episode Description:

What does it really take to bring a tequila brand to life?

In this episode of The Agave Social Club, we sit down with Dheeraj Naidu, founder of Tequila Rimari, to unpack the journey from idea to bottle. From navigating the complexities of launching a new brand to building meaningful partnerships in Mexico, Dheeraj shares the realities behind the scenes—both the wins and the challenges.

We dive into how Tequila Rimari came to be, what sets it apart in a crowded market, and the importance of authenticity, patience, and long-term vision in the tequila world. Dheeraj also gives insight into working with Sergio Cruz and the team at NOM 1414, and how production decisions shape what ends up in your glass.

If you’ve ever thought about starting a tequila brand—or just want to better understand the stories behind the bottles—this episode delivers a candid and insightful conversation.

Key Takeaways:

•  Building a tequila brand takes more than passion—it requires persistence and trust 
•  The right distillery partnership can define a brand’s identity 
•  Transparency and production choices matter more than ever to consumers 
•  Success in tequila is a long game, not an overnight win 

About Our Guest:

Dheeraj Naidu is the founder of Tequila Rimari, a brand focused on authenticity, quality, and honoring traditional tequila-making practices while building something meaningful in a modern landscape.

Connect with Tequila Rimari:

•  Instagram: @tequilarimari 
•  Website: https://tequilarimari.com/

Follow The Agave Social Club:

•  Instagram: @agavesocialclub 
•  YouTube: The Agave Social Club 
•  Website: https://www.theagavesocialclub.com/

Sponsor:

This episode is brought to you by SipTequila.com — your go-to source for additive-free, premium tequilas. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just starting your journey, SipTequila.com curates some of the best bottles in the game.

Call to Action:

If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a fellow tequila lover.

In the tequila world, growth almost always comes with change.

In this episode of The Agave Social Club Podcast, we welcome back Steve Vera to talk about the next chapter of El Gran Legado de Vida. Since his last appearance on the show, the brand has gone through a major transition — moving production from Nom 1123 to Nom 1551.

Steve joins us to share the real story behind that decision, the challenges that come with switching distilleries, and what it means for the future of the brand.

We dive into the realities of building a tequila company, how production decisions shape what ends up in your glass, and what it takes to introduce a growing brand to a whole new audience.

If you’ve ever wondered what happens behind the scenes when a tequila brand evolves, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.

Pour yourself a tequila and join the club.

This episode is sponsored by Siptequila.com — one of the best places online to discover incredible tequila, mezcal, and other agave spirits.

I recently had the honor to be a guest on the Light Bulb Moments Podcast with Phil Fornaro. We talk tequila and I get to share a little about my journey. Check out the Light Bulb Moments Podcast on Apple.

My first trip to Mexico of the year was with Codigo 1530. Join me as I recap my trip with this amazing brand. 

Let's get to know one of the best new brands out there. This is Alto Canto. I speak with Founder Daday Suarez and Master Distiller Juan Reyes as we discuss their high altitude authentic tequila. To purchase, you can go to https://siptequila.com/search?q=alto+canto&type=product

I just got back from Mexico with my wife. We checked on a few projects, tasted a lot of amazing tequila and spent time with awesome friends. Are you looking to visit Mexico? I have some recommendations throughout the episode that you won't want to miss. If you want early access to my ASC projects, be sure to join the membership https://www.theagavesocialclub.com/store/p/the-agave-social-club-membership

Brand new episode with Carreta De Oro. The brand has been around for a while but now under the leadership of Ronak, he's introducing it to a new audience. To learn more about the brand, check out https://carretadeoro.com/

It's that time of the year again. The Fortaleza Winter Blend Press Trip. Join me for this special trip as I spent time at Fortaleza, Caballito Cerrero for a new project, and then on to Arandas to bottle my upcoming Siempre Conexiones project. 

Cofounders Todd Hummel and Iliana Partida of Elevacion 1250 join me to share their story. From Canada to Amatitan, Elevacion 1250 is authentic as it gets. Be sure to check out https://elevacion1250tequila.com/ to learn more and head over to https://siptequila.com/products/elevacion1250-blanco-rosa?pr_prod_strat=jac&pr_rec_id=8d628001a&pr_rec_pid=7939400695997&pr_ref_pid=7939400794301&pr_seq=uniform to pick up some of their delicious tequila. 

I had a chance to speak with Juan Pena who is behind Prolijo Mezcal, Tequila, and Tierra y Libertad Tequila. Three great brands with three great agave spirits. be sure to check out https://www.prolijomezcal.com/ https://www.drinkprolijo.com/ https://www.drinktyl.com/

I had the honor to be a guest on Brad Niccum's show "Tasting Tequila with Brad" I hope you enjoy this candid conversation as Brad had great questions. Be sure to follow Brad Niccum on all platforms.https://tastingtequilawithbrad.com/

Join us for a great conversation with the guys from Loco Tequila. This is a brand that is going against the grain as they look to honor the history of authentic tequila and push the boundaries for the future. To learn more about the brand, you can go to https://loco-tequila.com/

I just got back from Mexico two days ago and had an amazing trip. From Caballito Cerrero, driving the fields sipping Fortaleza Anejo with Guillermo, to spending the night at Enrique Fonsecas barrel house with over 12,000 barrels. This was a special trip. 

I speak with Sabor Y Cultura founder Luis Hernandez. You don't want to miss one of the best festivals around that also helps the community. To learn more, go to https://www.saborevent.com/

One of my favorite episodes is with Billy Erickson from Fortaleza. Do you why Fortaleza is not called Los Abuelos in the US? Billy and I discuss it as well as hear the history of the brand. To learn more about the brand go to https://tequilafortaleza.com/

I had the honor to speak to David Alan from PATRÓN Tequila about the brand’s history as well as their additive free tequila and commitment to transparency.  To learn more about PATRÓN Tequila, you can visit https://www.patrontequila.com/

Siempre founder and good friend Alex Lacroix joins me to catch us up on all things Siempre, including the special Exclusivo Blanco release created by me for and Sergio Cruz. I can't wait to share this release. 

Last year, I had the chance to be a guest on the Whiskey Tequila Fridays Podcast. If you want to hear more of my story and some of my thoughts on tequila, here's your chance. Be sure to check out their show. 

Don't miss this incredible ancestral and artisanal mezcal with founders Daniel Zavala and Alejandro Sixto. Be sure to check out https://matasantamezcal.com/ to learn more and to purchase. 

I speak with founder of Cambio Tequila John Des Rosiers as he is the mastermind of this exceptional new tequila brand. Be sure to check out https://cambiotequila.com/ to learn more and to purchase. 

My good friend Kobe Desmet returns to the show to share what he is up to as he embarks on his new journey with The PKGD Group. From G4 to Ultramundo, The PKGD Group is all about high quality producer owned agave spirits. To learn more you can go to https://pkgdgroup.com/

It is 2025 and The Agave Social Club Podcast is back. Have you had Lost Lore Tequila? This is one that needs to be on your radar. Made right with a great story to tell, Lost Lore has a bright future. To learn more you can go to https://www.lostloretequila.com/ 
Looking to be an official member of the ASC, join here https://www.theagavesocialclub.com/store/p/the-agave-social-club-membership

A big day as we celebrate 100 episodes of the podcast. It is an honor to have Lalo back on the show as we celebrate their new High Proof Blanco. To learn more about the brand, you can go to https://lalospirits.com/

The Guys from the Tactical Tequila Podcast had me on their show last month so I wanted to share some of our conversation. Be sure to check out there show wherever you listen to podcasts. 

I recently wrapped up a production project with the brand Yeyo. Come with me as I recap the trip. 

We speak with Christiane Maertens from Valor Tequila and The Gente Buena Foundation, and Kathy Gregoire from Pronatura as we hear about the work that they are doing to bring water to the community of San Pedro de Los Landeros.  Starting on September 30th, they are launching a campaign where they look to raise $100,000 for this water initiative. How can you help? Go to https://gentebuenafoundation.org/ and DONATE!!! you can learn more about Valor by going to https://drinkvalor.com/ and don't miss the incredible work that Pronatura is doing by checking out https://pronatura.org.mx/index.php

We are revisiting some of our most popular episodes like this one with Jake Lustig as we hear his story and how he got involved with NOM1146. Are you caught up?

I just got back from MX where I got to spend time with some amazing brands. The 2024 Winter Blend is almost here so let's talk about it. 
Be sure to follow me on social media @agavesocialclub 

My buddies from Cazcanes join me to share an update on all that they have going on. A new XA will come out next year, just launched their rosa blanco with the rosa repo coming this fall all while scaling the brand. Be sure to check out https://www.cazcanes.com/ to learn more.

After the passing of his father, Thomas Hristov continues the legacy and passion that Romeo Hristov created with Chisholm Trail Crafts glasses. It's been 5 years and an education that you won't find at any business school. CTC glasses are beautiful and should be in your collection for sipping your agave spirits. To learn more you can visit, https://www.chisholmtrailcrafts.com/

A big thanks to everyone who has joined the official Agave Social Club Membership. Feel free to check out https://www.theagavesocialclub.com/store/p/the-agave-social-club-membership to learn more. 

Chad and Cristina Allen come back on the show to discuss their journey with their single barrel program as well as the Agave Social Club Single Barrel Collaboration. They also drop some big news for what's coming in the future. A big thanks to Kegnbottle.com for supporting this single barrel collaboration at retail. 

I speak with Alma Del Jaguar founder McCauley Williams as we discuss everything from Jaguars, to distillation, to Barrel maturation.  I also had a chance to try their new High Proof Blanco Nocturna which you can preorder here https://www.almadeljaguar.com/tequilas

I speak with John Melvin from the Good Juice Festival and Montagave Tequila as we discuss all things Good Juice. To learn more about Montagave you can go to https://montagave.com.

Changing it up a bit as I had the chance to be a guest on Jay Baers new show The Spirit Guides. Jay is giving a behind-the-scenes look into how ordinary people turned their passion for the spirit industry into something much larger. I had a great time sharing a little about my journey and I hope you enjoy it as well. Be sure to check out the Spirit Guides on all podcast platforms.  

I speak with the co-founders of El Negocio Tequila. This is a newer brand coming out of NOM1123 and worth your attention. We discuss the marriage between their exceptional tequila and their 100 Pt French Oak wine barrels that they use for aging. To purchase, be sure to visit https://www.elnegociotequila.com/

Join me as I was recently in MX with two amazing brands. Lots of content to release but I want to bring you along on some of these special moments. 

New Brand Alert!!! Tierra De Ensueno is a new collaboration from Sergio Cruz and Oscar Vazquez and it is a must try. This will be hitting shelves any day now. Be sure to https://ensueno-tequila.com/ to sign up for their mailing list and be notified as to when you can purchase a bottle. @ensueno.tequila. 

I speak with Founder of Mission 1530 Jason Krasno as he shares why he started Mission 1530 and how he is set on raising money for the tequila industry and the Bat Friendly Program. Be sure to check out https://www.batfriendly.org/ to learn more about the program. 

Founder Pete Kelly joins me to give an update on the fast growing Insolito Tequila as well as share their brand new Extra Anejo. Go to https://www.insolitotequila.com/ to preorder their XA that will release in early March.