When it comes to tequila, few names resonate with authenticity, tradition, and craftsmanship quite like El Tequileño Tequila. For 66 years, this iconic brand has stood for quality and innovation, making it one of Mexico’s most respected tequila houses. In this episode of Sippin’ With Mocha, we sit down with Tony Salles, the master distiller behind El Tequileño, and Gigi, a key figure driving the brand’s success on the West Coast.
Grab a glass, because this conversation is about heritage, innovation, and why tequila is more than just a spirit—it’s a lifestyle.
El Tequileño Tequila From Family Roots to Master Distiller
Tony’s story is deeply rooted in tequila culture. His grandfather founded El Tequileño in 1959 after years of producing tequila for the legendary José Cuervo family. What started as a family-run venture in Jalisco has grown into a global brand, but the heart and soul remain the same.
“Quality and flavor are non-negotiable,” Tony says, explaining why El Tequileño refuses to sacrifice tradition for mass production.
Tony officially stepped into the family business in 2005 and became Master Distiller in 2008, carrying on the legacy of crafting tequilas that stay true to their roots while embracing creativity.
Why Imperfect Cooking Creates Perfect Flavor
One of the most fascinating parts of the episode is Tony revealing how El Tequileño still uses autoclaves built from old railroad cars, a nod to his great-grandfather’s work in bringing railroads to Mexico. These massive vessels create an uneven cooking process, which Tony proudly calls “beautiful imperfection.” The result? Tequila with unique depth and complexity that can’t be replicated in modern, fully automated systems.
The Evolution: From Platinum to Single-Barrel Experiments
El Tequileño is famous for its Platinum Blanco, a spirit loved for its bright agave notes and smooth finish. But Tony and his team aren’t afraid to push boundaries. In this episode, we dive into:
- Tommy’s Margarita using El Tequileño Platinum (with Moché behind the bar).
- The painstaking process of creating an additive-free Cristalino, a style Tony resisted for years until he found a way to do it right.
- A new Single Barrel Program, featuring limited releases like a double-wood Reposado and a Madeira cask experiment offering flavors of chocolate and dried fruits.
Tony also hints at future releases, including innovative blends aged in French oak from California wineries.
The Business Behind El Tequileño Tequila
In 2017, El Tequileño partnered with Canadian and American investors led by Wayne Hennessy, fueling significant growth while keeping its DNA intact. Today, the brand has expanded from 200,000 liters to over 1.1 million liters annually, yet every decision prioritizes flavor and tradition.
“We can grow, but not at the expense of quality. That’s non-negotiable,” Tony emphasizes.
More Than a Drink—It’s a Lifestyle
Gigi shares her journey into the brand, driven by passion and a love for tequila education. She embodies what makes this industry special: community, culture, and a lifestyle rooted in respect for the agave.
This episode is full of wisdom, laughs, and of course, cocktails—from margaritas to a black Manhattan riff featuring El Tequileño’s single-barrel release.
Watch the Full Episode
Whether you’re a seasoned tequila lover or just starting your agave journey, this episode will leave you inspired (and maybe craving a margarita).
About El Tequileño Tequila
Founded in 1959, El Tequileño remains one of Mexico’s most respected tequila brands, known for additive-free production, traditional cooking methods, and exceptional flavor. From Plata to Reposado and beyond, El Tequileño offers tequilas for every palate—crafted with integrity, passion, and history in every bottle.