What are the biggest tequila trends in 2023? For one, more growth. Preliminary 2022 data indicates that the agave spirit has surpassed American whiskey by value to become the second most valuable spirits subcategory in the U.S. And according to IWSR Drinks Market Analysis, tequila is set to overtake vodka in 2023 to become the industry leader by value.

Online alcohol delivery service Drizly finds that 64% of retailers surveyed plan to give the agave-based spirit more shelf space than any other spirit next year. In its 2022 Retail Report, Drizly also notes that 54% of retailers said that tequila has overperformed their expectations this past year, outpacing all other spirits.

Agave Education

La Josie carries 150 different brands and agave variables, focusing on supporting family-owned and -produced agave distillates, as well as tequilas with all-natural flavoring, Barajas says. “Families with a long history of producing are some of the more popular distillates we currently carry,” he notes. “Facts and education are a big trend in our industry.

Indeed, that’s partly why Hacienda Encantada Resort & Residences in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, opened The Museo del Tequila in June 2022. The inspiration started with the property’s hacienda-style architecture and the idea to showcase the history and flavors of Mexico’s tequila, says Jose Rojas Torres, director of A&B at Hacienda Encantada Resort & Spa. “Museo del Tequila taps into travelers’ rising interest in this classic Mexican drink.”

Guests can visit the Museo del Tequila for a culinary journey through tequila, mezcal, sotol and bacanora with the tequila sommelier, or tequilera, Pamela Miranda. Museo del Tequila, which stocks 70 brands of tequila and mezcal, also hosts tastings for guests nightly at 5 p.m.

Brands on the Bar

At the Tequila Museum, which offers 70 brands of tequila and mezcal, popular brands include mainstays such as Don Julio, Patron and Casa Cuervo, Torres says. “Travelers will enjoy not just the taste of tequila, but also the range of unique aromas that such a sublime beverage can offer.” In the case of mezcal, the different varieties and styles are sourced from wild agaves — like tobal

Cocktail Culture

The traditional Mexican style of drinking tequila is to appreciate all the notes and flavors, Torres says. “However, many guests are more comfortable with Margaritas or mixed drinks.” Despite trending cocktails such as the Old Fashioned and Espresso Martini, the Margarita remains the top libation at the majority of on-premise establishments.

Agave Outlook

At The Museo del Tequila, guests will be able to go even deeper into the world of tequila with pairing dinners and tasting opportunities, Torres says. “We are happy to accommodate guests that request more beverage experiences and develop our programming as fit.”

By Melissa Dowling