The Tequila Renaissance is Here: How Agave Spirits Are Taking Over The Cocktail Scene

Exploring the Rise of Tequila and Mezcal in Modern Mixology

Tequila today is so engrained in the cocktail scene you'll be hard pressed to find a cocktail program that doesn't include - or completely focus on! - the delicious agave based spirit, but veteran drinkers will remember that wasn't always the case. ​Go back twenty years and Tequila was for sharp shooting & sour mix heavy margaritas - and the average bar had okay, bad, and worse options for you to choose from when it came to quality.

So what changed? Read below for a brief history - and more importantly where you can find the best of the best to try for yourself!

Once Upon An Agave Plant..

Tequila & mezcal both originate from Mexico and are distilled from the agave plant. Tequila was born in the town of the same name, Tequila Jalisco Mexico. Much like Champagne (Originating in the Champagne region in France), Tequila is a regional spirit which comes from one of five recognized states in Mexico - Guanajuato, Jalisco, Michoacan, Nayarit, and Tamaulipas. Mezcal, on the other hand, can be made from various agave species and is predominantly crafted in Oaxaca, although eight other regions are recognized as well.​

The agave plant has been a central part of Mexican culture for thousands of years and the traditional production methods of these spirits have been preserved over centuries. How cool is that? For tequila, the process involves harvesting mature blue agave plants, baking the piñas (the heart of the agave), extracting the juice, fermenting, and then distilling it. Mezcal production is distinct for its use of underground pit ovens lined with hot stones to cook the agave, imparting a signature smoky flavor. ​

Types of Tequila

Tequila is categorized based on its aging process:

• Blanco (Silver): Unaged or aged for less than two months, offering pure agave flavors.​ (We Recommend Astral Blanco Tequila)

• Reposado (Rested): Aged between two months and a year in oak barrels, gaining subtle wood notes.​ (Try Cazcanes Reposado No.9 for the real deal.)

• Añejo (Aged): Matured for one to three years, resulting in a richer and more complex profile.​ (Another favorite of ours San Matias Gran Reserva.

  
  

From Gold to Golden Age

In recent decades, tequila and mezcal have undergone a renaissance. Producers have shifted focus towards artisanal methods, emphasizing authenticity and craftsmanship. Brands like Fosforo have gained acclaim for adhering to traditional production techniques, such as using brick ovens and stone wheels, which enhance the spirit's quality and flavor.

This commitment to quality has led to a surge in demand. For the first time in 2023 Tequila & Mezcal sold more units than American Whiskey moving to the Number 2 Spirit in America!

Tickle Your Tequila Taste-buds at The Agave Festival - Sunday, June 22nd 2025!

To celebrate this agave renaissance, we're excited to announce our upcoming The Agave Festival on June 22nd. We're excited to pair with award winning Ruta Oaxaca in Patchogue for this event! The evening includes:

• Tasting Sessions: Sample a curated selection of premium tequilas and mezcals like Cazcanes Tequila, Fósforo Mezcal, San Matias, ArteNOM Tequila, El Texano Tequila, Casa Elemental Tequila & many more– never before sipped spirits!

• Meet the Experts: Engage with exhibitors, distillers and brand ambassadors to deepen your appreciation of agave spirits.​

• Official Agave Spirit Awards - Vote in historic awards along with Head Panelist Diego Livera of The Cabinet NYC and the NY/NJ Agave Club.

• Tacos! Purchase delicious tacos to pair with the unique & diverse flavors of tequila.

  
  

Secure Your Spot

Tickets for The Agave Festival are now in short supply. Don't miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in the tequila renaissance! Advance Tickets Discount Available - Purchase your tickets here.​

Excited? Tag @NyCocktailExpo on Instagram with your Agave Plant Preference #TeamTequila #TeamMezcal

Erika V. Keeler | @ShakenByErika | NY Cocktail Expo | MAR25

Do you have a Tequila That Needs to be Tasted?

For those interested in being a part of The Agave Festival, we have a limited number of vendor spaces still available. Please reach out to me directly at ErikaVKeeler@gmail.com for inquiries about availability & other brand opportunities!