Maestra Tequilera Diana Quiroz of Tequila El Ateo on High Proofs, Passion, and the Process

At Salud Amigos Fest, tequila isn’t just poured—it’s deeply shared. Among the standout voices at the Mezcal Buzz Media Corner was Maestra Tequilera Diana Quiroz, who brought a heartfelt conversation about her journey, process, and the soulful creation behind Tequila El Ateo.

The Mezcal Buzz Media Corner was proudly powered by Cask & Capture—specialists in high-quality video, photo, podcast, and branded content. Whether you’re a brand, a storyteller, or a festival looking to document your impact, reach out to Cask & Capture and let your story shine.

Connecting With the People Behind the Glass

Diana Quiroz doesn’t just make tequila—she lives it. As a chemical engineer with a specialization in quality and working on her master’s in tequila processes, she blends deep technical knowledge with intuitive artistry.

“For me, it’s important to not only bring a technically well-made tequila—but one that reflects who I am.”

Events like Salud Amigos Fest allow her to step outside the distillery and connect face-to-face with the people who drink her creations. It’s not just about the product—it’s about identity, emotion, and community.

From Engineering to Emotion: Becoming a Maestra Tequilera

Diana’s tequila philosophy is a blend of rigorous study and playful experimentation. She leans toward artisanal methods—favoring brick ovens, tahona extraction, and slow fermentation, which allow the agave’s full expression to shine.

“Even if we all use agave, the way we work defines everything—from the type of yeast to the cut in distillation. It’s like cooking—once you find your recipe, you protect it.”

This attention to detail ensures every bottle of El Ateo delivers consistency, personality, and soul.

Introducing Her First High Proof Tequila

The newest addition to the El Ateo lineup is a 50% ABV high proof tequila—Diana’s first ever. And it’s turning heads.

“I made it for people who are curious about high proof but maybe hesitant. It’s strong, but smooth. It leaves your mouth a little numb—in a good way.”

Balancing alcohol content with sweetness, freshness, and complexity, this bold expression proves that strength and elegance can coexist in a bottle.

The Power of Storytelling and Empirical Knowledge

During the event, Diana also gave a talk on the cultural and production history of tequila, spotlighting the unsung heroes: jimadores, labelers, and generational artisans.

“I had the chance to study—but many of those who shaped this industry didn’t. Their knowledge is passed down in practice, in instinct. And that deserves to be shared too.”

For Diana, tequila isn’t just made in labs—it’s born in fields, nurtured by tradition, and perfected through generations.

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About Tequila El Ateo

Tequila El Ateo is an additive-free tequila brand rooted in transparency, quality, and craft. Led by Maestra Tequilera Diana Quiroz, the brand emphasizes clean techniques, high-proof expressions, and thoughtful production to bring forward tequilas that are as bold as they are balanced.

About Salud Amigos Fest

Salud Amigos Fest is a California agave spirits festival, held at Thunder Studios in Long Beach. Curated by the team behind LA Tequila Club, it brings together top brands, industry experts, and agave lovers for a vibrant celebration of Mexican spirit culture.

About LA Tequila Club

LA Tequila Club is a growing community of agave spirits fans based in Los Angeles. Known for their curated tastings and vibrant events, the club connects consumers with producers in a welcoming, educational, and celebratory space.

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