Elevating Hospitality in Tequila: A Conversation with Monse Arzate of Tequila Ocho

At this year’s Salud Amigos Fest, the Mezcal Buzz Media Corner, powered by Cask & Capture, had the honor of sitting down with Monse Arzate, hospitality lead for the celebrated additive-free brand, Tequila Ocho. Known for delivering educational and transparent distillery experiences, Monse shared what it means to connect directly with tequila lovers from around the world—and how authentic hospitality plays a vital role in reshaping public perception of premium agave spirits.

Changing the Way People Experience Tequila

As one of the most respected tequila brands on the market, Tequila Ocho doesn’t just produce exceptional spirits—it creates immersive, honest, and educational experiences for visitors. Monse, who heads hospitality at the brand, explained that a core mission is to challenge outdated beliefs about how tequila should be consumed.

“We’re trying to change that mindset that tequila is just for shots,” she shared. “You don’t need to drink it for the effect—you should drink it for the taste.”

This is why the brand offers guided distillery tours from Monday to Saturday, designed to teach guests about the production process from field to bottle.

Tequila Tourism Rooted in Transparency

At the Tequila Ocho distillery in Jalisco, guests are not only welcome—they’re encouraged to take photos and ask questions.

“We’re not trying to hide anything,” said Monse. “That adds to our identity and gives value back to the consumer.”

The tours are hosted in both English and Spanish, with two sessions daily (11 a.m. and 1 p.m. on weekdays, 11:30 a.m. on Saturdays). You can book a tour directly here.

Taking Hospitality Global

While much of Monse’s time is spent at the distillery, she also travels with the brand to engage with new audiences across the globe. From retail tastings in the U.S. to cocktail culture events like Tales of the Cocktail in New Orleans, her work in hospitality helps maintain a consistent, heart-forward experience no matter the setting.

“It’s a completely different experience around the world,” she said. “But it helps me bring even better hospitality back to Mexico.”

What Monse Learned at Salud Amigos Fest

At Salud Amigos Fest in Los Angeles, Monse noticed something powerful: a growing hunger for knowledge and quality among tequila consumers.

“People want to find what tequila is right for them,” she said. “It doesn’t matter the brand. What matters is the flavor profile that resonates with you.”

Events like this give consumers a chance to learn directly from producers and sip side-by-side with the people behind the bottle.

How to Visit Tequila Ocho’s Distillery

If you’re planning a trip to Jalisco—or want to taste the real story behind premium tequila—Tequila Ocho welcomes you to visit.

👉 Book a distillery tour
👉 Tours offered Monday–Friday (11 a.m. English, 1 p.m. Spanish) and Saturday (11:30 a.m.)
👉 Learn the production process, taste on-site, and take photos freely

Powered by Cask & Capture

This interview was recorded at the Mezcal Buzz Media Corner at Salud Amigos Fest, brought to you by Cask & Capture.
If your brand is looking to create dynamic video, podcast, or photo content—Cask & Capture offers full creative services tailored for the spirits industry and beyond.

👉 Ready to tell your story? Reach out to Cask & Capture for your next campaign or content series.

About Tequila Ocho

Tequila Ocho is a family-run brand founded by Carlos Camarena and the late Tomas Estes. It is recognized for producing the first-ever single-estate tequila and remains committed to transparency, sustainability, and terroir-driven expressions of agave. All tequilas are additive-free and crafted with heritage and heart.

About LA Tequila Club

LA Tequila Club is a grassroots community based in Los Angeles that brings together tequila lovers through curated tastings, industry education, and cultural events. Their mission is to spread agave knowledge one pour at a time.

About Salud Amigos Fest

Salud Amigos Fest is an annual celebration of agave spirits, food, and community. Featuring tastings from dozens of premium agave brands, the event serves as a bridge between consumers, producers, and industry professionals.