Cheers to National Tequila Day 2023: Exploring Deals, Recipes, and Must-Try Drinks

On this year’s National Tequila Day, tequila enthusiasts and novice drinkers alike are celebrating the spirit’s rising popularity in the United States. According to Bump Williams Consulting, U.S. sales of tequila have been on the rise, with a 7.3% increase in 2022 and a 6% increase so far this year. The surge is fueled not only by traditional tequila consumption but also by the growing demand for canned cocktails and tequila-infused seltzers.

### The Rise of Tequila as a Ready-to-Drink Category

Canned cocktails, such as Jose Cuervo Sparkling Margaritas, and tequila-infused seltzers from popular brands like High Noon and Topo Chico, have become go-to options for consumers in the ready-to-drink category. These convenient and pre-packaged beverages offer a refreshing twist on traditional tequila consumption.

### Celebrity Influence and Premiumization

The booming premium tequila trend can be attributed, in part, to the influence of celebrity-backed brands. One iconic figure in the tequila industry is Sammy Hagar, the Red Rocker and former Van Halen lead singer. Hagar founded Cabo Wabo tequila in the late ’90s and sold it for nearly $100 million a decade later. His latest venture is Santo Mezquila, an 80-proof blend of mezcal and tequila. Hagar believes that the celebrity association with tequila encourages more people to give it a try.

However, he also cautions that some brands use additives to enhance the taste, while he aims to produce additive-free tequila. Hagar believes that as consumers’ palates evolve, the demand for quality tequila will grow, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and pure ingredients.

### National Tequila Day Deals and Celebratory Drinks

To make the most of National Tequila Day, various restaurants and tequila brands are offering special deals, unique recipes, and limited-time drinks. Here are some highlights:

– Casa Dragones is offering complimentary shipping with the code “DRAGONES” on their website.
– Chuy’s, the Tex-Mex restaurant chain, has drink specials all day, including $5 top shelf tequila and $1 floaters.
– TGI Fridays is serving special tequila cocktails like the Dragon Fruit Margarita, as well as $4 Tequila Sunrises and other discounted drinks.
– Dad Water, a line of ready-to-drink cocktails, offers tequila-infused flavors like Lime & Tequila, Grapefruit & Tequila, and Pineapple Jalapeno & Tequila.
– Various Mexican restaurants, such as Guzman Y Gomez, La Barca Cantina, Macayo’s, Margaritas, and Someburros are offering margarita deals and discounts.
– The MARGS brand of canned cocktails provides natural base ingredients, including premium tequila, triple sec, sparkling water, and cane sugar.
– Naked Taco is serving $8.88 margaritas, while On The Border offers $5.99 house margaritas and Marky Margs, made with Mark Wahlberg’s Flecha Azul Tequila.
– Social Taco provides $6 margaritas all day, and Tacodeli offers a bucket of canned tequila cocktails at a discounted price.
– Calirosa Tequila, backed by Adam Levine, suggests a “Let’s Go Party, Barbie” cocktail recipe.
– Kendall Jenner’s 818 Tequila and Cazadores Café coffee liqueur offer unique twists on classic cocktails.
– Chef José Andrés’ restaurants provide special margaritas for National Tequila Day, and he shares his Salt Air Margarita recipe.
– Herradura Ultra showcases the Sandia Fresca cocktail made with añejo tequila and watermelon juice.
– Lobos 1707 Tequila, endorsed by LeBron James and others, offers the Lobos Colada recipe, while Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson’s Teremana Tequila shares its Mango Margarita creation.
– Cincoro Tequila, co-founded by Michael Jordan, suggests the Cincoro Paloma Spritz, and JAJA Tequila partners with Gopuff for the Taquito-rita, a margarita made with Delimex Taquitos.
– 1800 Tequila presents a Spicy Ranch Water recipe for those looking for a spicy twist.

With an array of deals and drinks available, National Tequila Day provides an opportunity for both tequila aficionados and newcomers to explore the diverse flavors and combinations that this beloved spirit has to offer.

### Tasting Tequila and Improving Margaritas

Renowned tequila expert and entrepreneur Sammy Hagar offers insights into tasting tequila and enhancing margaritas. He suggests placing a touch of salt on the end of the tongue before taking the first sip to clear the palate. Hagar also recommends using blanco tequila for margarita-making and experimenting with a splash of tangerine juice or an orange peel for added flavor. Mezcal, according to Hagar, pairs exceptionally well with orange.

### Celebrity Influence and Tequila Brands

The influence of celebrities in the tequila industry is undeniable. Figures such as Kendall Jenner, Adam Levine, and Dwayne Johnson have ventured into the world of agave spirits, both as investors and creators of their own tequila brands. These celebrity-backed brands have attracted significant attention and are contributing to the overall growth of the tequila market.

### Conclusion: Tequila‘s Time in the Spotlight

As tequila continues to gain popularity in the United States, spurred by the rise of canned cocktails and celebrity branding, it is important to recognize the evolving palates of consumers. Quality and authenticity will ultimately be the deciding factors in the success of tequila brands. National Tequila Day provides the perfect opportunity to explore the diverse range of tequila offerings and celebrate the rich heritage and craftsmanship behind this beloved spirit. So grab a glass, savor the flavors, and raise a toast to National Tequila Day!