Jose Cortes of Tequila Herradura has deep roots in the agave fields. As a 3rd generation Jimador, he learned the lifestyle and pride garnered by harvesting agave. After years in the fields, his passion for learning and expanding his opportunities drove Jose into academia. His business acumen led him to learn English, receiving Tequila Expert status, and now being the director of VIP and Trade at Casa Herradura. We chat music, language, and legacy.
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Ep 284 – Amando Alvarez: The Unique Taste of a Remote Place
Amando Alvarez is a young Mezcalero hailing from the small town of Santa Maria Ixcatlán, Oaxaca. He is a 6th generation producer using very ancestral techniques. As we sit at his palenque outside of town and reflect on how the world feels about Mezcal, a simpler reality sets in. Amando does what he loves and what he knows. The balance of nature, tranquility, and community is unparalleled in this industry. We chat animals, music, and more.
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Ep 283 – Alan Ruesga-Pelayo: When There’s A Will, There’s A Way
Guadalajara native Alan Ruesga-Pelayo has hospitality in his blood. As a helper with his parents social events, and a lover of conversation, the perfect stage was set for Alan to excel in the bartending community. After moving to meet his sister in Washington DC, a necessity to learn English and a great deal of opportunities in hospitality started to pave his career. Some years later, a chance meeting behind the bar led to his most recent connection with Cazadores as the new and colorful brand ambassador. We chat hosting, press, Austin, and more.
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Ep 282 – John Campbell: A Different Kind of Island Life
John Campbell has lived on the wee island of Islay his entire life. Ensconced in the culture of Scotch production, fishing, and shepherding, Mr. Campbell couldn’t represent the tradition of Laphroaig any deeper. Working his way through all positions at the distillery, John now travels the world talking about the delicious world of peat, and the exceptional liquid that is Laphroaig. What has the 25+ years at the distillery taught him? We chat fatherhood, inspiration, numbers, and more.
