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Latinx and Hispanic countries produce some of the world’s most popular — and lesser known — spirits (I see you, pulque!). These bottles are filled with more than just flavor; they’re infused with tradition and the dedication of the people behind their craft. When I raise my glass, I know it’s not just a drink in my hand — it’s an entryway to cultural stories and the artisans who pour their heart and soul into every bottle.
But with an oversaturated market, how do you identify the bottles that deserve a spot on your bar cart? I’ve jumped behind the bar with some of our favorite bartenders to uncover their go-to gems among Latinx-owned liquor brands, with a focus on tequila, mezcal, pisco, and rum (number eight got a special shout-out from two separate bartenders). Your corner liquor store might not have some of these on hand, but trust me — they’re worth going out of the way for.
Whether you’re looking to infuse new life into your libations, connect to the cultural aspect behind the craft, or just want to shine at Friendsgiving dinner with your liquor knowledge, these bottles hold more than what meets the eye.
1. Aldez Organic Tequila
“The owners, Manuel and Jennifer Aczualdez, tapped a good friend of mine, Ariel Suarez, to partner with them to launch this brand. What I like about Aldez Tequila is the company’s sustainability practices. It is a certified organic, artisanal tequila bottled by using recycled Coca-Cola glass and sealed with recycled cork. The Aldez Reposado’s bold and rich flavors, derived from an eight-month aging process in reclaimed bourbon casks, make it a great option for savoring on the rocks, but also lends itself beautifully to crafting a classic old-fashioned cocktail. The Aldez Blanco, the brand’s unaged version, has black pepper and citrus notes that make it perfect for a Paloma and other refreshing cocktails.” —Darnell Holguin, founder of The Silver Sun Group, a beverage consultancy, New York City
Buy: Aldez Organic Reposado Tequila, $53.94 for 750 ml at Drizly
Did your favorite make the list? Tell us about it in the comments below.
