Sustainable Tequila
Due in part to its reliance on a single variety of slow-maturing agave, the Tequila industry is particularly threatened by changes in the Earth’s climate. In an effort to make sure this centuries-old spirit can be enjoyed by future generations, many producers are striving to be as sustainable as possible. These are some of the best brands for responsible Tequila drinking.
Patrón
Reposado
$55.22
($78.88 per litre)
One of Mexico’s most famous exports, Patrón Tequila is also an industry leader in sustainability. The brand’s distillery in Jalisco has made significant advances in recycling water and reducing emissions, but its efforts don’t end with production. Patrón also funds agricultural research intended to safeguard the future of the precious blue agave.
Patrón Reposado Tequila is light and easy-going in character with light American oak influence bringing notes of butter and vanilla. A great introduction to agave spirits.
Casa Dragones
Añejo
$205.14
($293.06 per litre)
Bertha González Nieves – the first woman to be certified as a maestra tequilera – has shown exemplary commitment to sustainability since launching Casa Dragones in 2008. Production is all geared toward increasing efficiency and reducing emissions, including a steam extraction process that yields more Tequila from fewer agaves than would be possible with traditional method.
Matured for at least 12 months in French and American oak casks – sustainably sourced, of course – Casa Dragones Añejo is a wonderfully complex Tequila with a palate of red fruits, cacao nibs and black pepper.
Mijenta
Añejo
$159.44
($227.77 per litre)
The first Tequila brand to be awarded the B Corp environmental certification, Mijenta is also a completely carbon neutral producer. Its bottles are 100% recycled glass and the labels on the Mijenta blanco and reposado are made with locally-sourced agave fibres. Though a relative newcomer to the scene, this small producer has already made quite an impact.
Inside the bottle you’ll find a serious añejo Tequila aged in French oak, acacia and cherry wood casks. An excellent digestif reminiscent of tobacco leaves, honey and toasted nuts.