Tequila, not only does it make you happy (according to songs, and potentially science), but it's also available at one of the biggest drinks festivals of the year. Celebrating Mexico's most noted export, and showcasing the very best in brands, Tequila & Mezcal Fest 2016 heads to the city this summer, and we just had to know more about the event, and this blue agave babe; that's where Eduardo came in....
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Tell us a little bit about yourself, and how Tequila Fest 2016 came about.
I'm originally from Mexico City, and have dedicated my time promoting the food, music and culture of Mexico in the UK whilst working for the Mexican embassy. I began my career in the UK drinks industry in 2004 working for Mexican brewery Grupo Modelo/Corona Beer over 8 years. I then started passionately driving the Mezcal and Tequila category in the UK when he joined Amathus Drinks in 2011 as brand sales marketing manager with a brief to grow the Amathus Drinks portfolio of artisanal and premium Mezcal and 100% agave Tequila. I has recently appeared at Channel’s 4 “Sunday breakfast” TV program as the tequila expert, sharing my love and passion for the category to the UK. I founded the Tequila & Mezcal Festival in 2014, the UK’s only festival for agave spirits.
The best way to drink tequila? Funnily enough, taking it as a shot is just rude.
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As the only ultimate tequila and mezcal festival in the UK for three years running, why do you think the event has been so popular in London?
Nowadays, people are looking for handmade, craft products; Tequila & Mezcal Fest offers to the public the opportunity to try the best craft and handmade drinks and food in the UK. Our aim is to educate trade and consumers.
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What can ticket holders expect on the night this coming September?
Ticket holders will be able to see in full swing the UK’s finest brand ambassadors and bartenders holding seminars and masterclasses on the art of Mexican cocktail making, such as the classic Margarita. Food connoisseurs will be treated to a choice of some of the capital’s most celebrated and authentic Mexican restaurants, with Lupita, Camion, Barrio Bars, Cafe Pacifico, Condesa, Wahaca, and all pitching up to serve hungry and thirsty revelers. And to prove that there’s more to Mexico the creative, cultural heritage of the country will be in full bloom with a mariachi band, folklore dancers, an Aztec ceremony performance, art exhibition by artist Honorio Robledo and a photographic exhibition dedicated to the agave process.
Tequila Fest 2016 promises to be the finest showcase of mexcal and agave based drinks in London.
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You talk about a step away from salt and lime slammers at the event, so what IS the best way to drink tequila?
Tequila and Mezcal must be drunk slowly, with respect. These are possibly the greatest spirits available at the moment, so sip it don't shot it please!
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Rumour has it that some bottles of mezcal contain a gusano (a worm) at the bottom, have you ever actually eaten the worm yourself?
No, I haven't eaten the worm ever. I try to keep away from spirits with insects inside the bottles.
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If you could only drink one bottle of tequila for the rest of your life, what one and why?
This is a very tough question as there are many good Tequilas and Mezcals that I love. Depending on the time of the day, where I am or what I am doing I will chose a specific Tequila or Mezcal. These spirits vary depending on where are made, which agave plant has been used to produce it, the altitude, the soil, the water used, etc, etc which will impact the flavours of each bottle.
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Sum up Tequila Fest 2016 in three words.
Educative tasting fiesta!
Like the sound of all of the above? Then don't miss out. Grab your tickets to the most authentic drinks event in London this September at the Tequila and Mezcal Fest 2016.
