Agave spirits are reclaiming their lofty status. Once considered the nectar of the gods, they became a symbol of the working class and a closely held national treasure in Mexico. Now these spirits are enjoying an international resurgence. Let’s see why they continue to stir interest and deserve a place of honor in your beverage lineup.
A Hint of Agave History
Born in the deserts of northern Mexico, the agave plant has been revered by indigenous peoples for thousands of years. Pulque, a drink made from fermented agave juice, was used in medicine and religious ceremonies. Its eventual distillation paved the way for the variety of agave-based spirits enjoyed today.
Tequila Trending
At one time, tequila was merely seen as the base spirit in margaritas or filler for shot glasses. But consumers now hold tequila in high regard for its complex flavors and craftsmanship—and it shows in sales. According to IWSR, tequila became the second highest-selling spirits category in 2023 with premium tequilas leading the charge.
Mezcal Mania
As the demand for unique flavors and artisanal offerings grows, mezcal and its trademark smoky flavor are gaining popularity and becoming a favorite addition to cocktails. Although tequila is a mezcal-based spirit, it’s important to note that all mezcal is not tequila. Tequila is made exclusively from Weber blue agave, while mezcal can include several types of agave.
Sold on Sotol
Sotol gets an honorary mention here because it’s technically not an agave spirit. Sotol is made from Dasylirion, which is commonly called the Desert Spoon plant. It resembles an agave but isn’t one.
However, instead of dismissing sotol as an imposter, let’s consider its merits. Sotol possesses much of the brightness and gentle sweetness of tequila and bears a subtle smokiness that’s reminiscent of mezcal. And classification technicalities aside, its production process is more sustainable than agave spirits. Desert spoon plants produce multiple harvests while agaves can be harvested only once. Now that’s food—uh—drink for thought.
Agave Spirits for Cocktails and More
Whatever your customers’ preferences, there’s an agave spirit or sotol to suit their tastes—and bold exploration is in order.
Shake up your offerings with a variety of tequilas—from silver to extra añejo—that showcase the drink’s peppery, mellow, and oaky notes. Highlight mezcal’s artisanal pedigree and unique smokiness for a taste of tradition. And allow sotol to shine with its bright, fresh nature. These spirits will enhance any cocktail and are just as wonderful when savored neat or on the rocks.
Popularity and versatility make agave-based spirits a delicious addition to your cocktail menus and spirits lists. Oh—and remember to include their distant cousin sotol.
