For the past three years, El Cristiano Tequila has hosted an exclusive journey for a select group to explore their roots in the heart of Guadalajara, Mexico. Earlier this month, this tradition, which grows more legendary with each passing year, reached its fourth installment—aptly named #FOURTHFLIGHT—and I was thrilled to be invited for my very first experience.
I’ll let you in on a little secret—I’ve never been the biggest tequila fan. Those college memories of salt, shots, and regrets had left me with a complicated relationship with the spirit, to say the least. When the invitation arrived, I found myself both excited for the adventure and quietly wondering if this trip would finally make a tequila lover out of me. Could an authentic experience at the source transform my perception, or would I be discreetly sipping club soda while everyone else enjoyed the main attraction?
As a newcomer joining the ranks of returning guests, I knew I was in for something special, but what I didn’t expect was how deeply this experience would transform my understanding of what truly premium tequila can be. Join me as I take you through my adventure exploring the beauty of Arandas with the El Cristiano team and get an inside look at the meticulous tequila-making process that makes this brand stand out as, “The World’s Most Delicious Tequila!”
What Is El Cristiano Tequila?
El Cristiano is an ultra-premium, additive-free tequila crafted from the finest blue weber agave, hand-selected from the rich, red volcanic soils of the Jalisco Highlands. In a market where many brands add glycerin, caramel coloring, or artificial flavors to their products, El Cristiano stands apart with its unwavering commitment to purity and authenticity.
Each bottle represents a perfect balance between time-honored traditions and innovative distillation techniques, resulting in a remarkably clean, smooth tequila experience that lets the natural character of the agave shine through without any artificial enhancements.
The Founders: A Vision of Purity
Founded by a group of passionate tequila connoisseurs who were frustrated by the prevalence of additive-laden spirits on the market, El Cristiano began with a clear mission: create the cleanest, most authentic tequila possible. This founding team combined their expertise and resources to establish a brand that would respect traditional methods while embracing modern technology to enhance—rather than mask—the natural qualities of premium agave.
What separates these founders from others in the industry is their unwavering dedication to transparency. In an industry where additives are often quietly used but rarely disclosed, El Cristiano proudly stands behind its additive-free production process, inviting consumers to taste the difference that comes from absolute purity.
First Evening in Guadalajara
Stepping into Guadalajara for the first time, I was immediately swept into a world far more vibrant than I could have imagined. The El Cristiano family welcomed us with such genuine warmth and hospitality that any travel fatigue instantly melted away. After checking into our hotel and enjoying a quick bite and cocktails on the rooftop with spectacular views stretching across the landscape, it was time for the welcome party that would set the tone for our entire visit.
Picture this: a sexy rooftop terrace adorned with vibrant colors fluttering in the evening breeze, music blasting from the DJ, and the intoxicating aromas of sizzling meats, fish and veggies cooking on the grill. And what a night we had! Every corner offered Instagram-worthy photo opportunities, while bartenders crafted signature cocktails that perfectly balanced sweet, spicy, and tangy notes.
It was here, under the twinkling lights of that magical evening, that I had my first encounter with El Cristiano. The bartender recommended I try their Reposado XR—a golden amber liquid that glowed in the glass as he handed it to me. I hesitated momentarily, haunted by tequila experiences past, but took a cautious sip… and then another. Wait a minute. Was I drinking tequila and actually liking it? The smooth, complex flavors danced across my palate with notes of vanilla, caramel, and the subtlest hint of oak—nothing like the harsh burn I remembered from my college days. “Excuse me, El Cristiano!” I thought to myself, “Where have you been all my life?”
The food was nothing short of spectacular – multiple taco stations featuring everything from traditional carnitas to seafood delicacies, each more delicious than the last. I danced under the stars, surrounded by new friends and the infectious energy of Jalisco. My first night here was undoubtedly one for the books – and I knew then that this journey was going to be extraordinary.
Journey to the Source: My Visit to the Distillery
The next day we journeyed to the source of El Cristiano – their distillery, in the enchanting town of Arandas. Situated approximately 7,000 feet above sea level in the Jalisco Highlands, this elevation contributes significantly to the unique growing conditions that make the region’s agave so exceptional. Co-founder/CEO Karan Khanna led us through each fascinating step of the production process, from harvesting to bottling. I found myself mesmerized as I touched the piñas, the hearts of the spiky blue weber agave plants, as they were surprisingly heavy in my hands. The real revelation came during the tasting portion, where we sampled the raw agave nectar—unexpectedly sweet with complex earthy notes that would eventually transform into the smooth, sophisticated spirit I’d come to love.
The distillery tour struck that perfect balance between educational and entertaining, with Karan peppering technical explanations with humorous anecdotes about tequila’s storied history. We celebrated our new knowledge with a mouthwatering lunch of homemade tacos, fresh fruit salad, cakes, and of course all the tequila we could drink.
The Passion of Tequila Making: From Field to Bottle
The journey from agave to exceptional tequila unfolds through a meticulous process. Only fully mature blue weber agave plants with optimal sugar content are selected. Once harvested, the agave piñas are transported to the distillery and slow-cooked in modern autoclaves, before being crushed to extract the sweet mosto juice—a perfect blend of tradition and innovation. This extracted juice then undergoes a patient fermentation in stainless steel tanks, enabling more complex flavor development as natural yeasts transform sugars into alcohol. The resulting liquid undergoes double distillation in magnificent copper pot stills, with the master distiller skillfully making precise “cuts” to capture only the purest parts of the spirit, followed by careful profile preparation and oxygenation that develops the tequila’s character naturally without additives. For aged expressions beyond their crystal-clear Blanco, El Cristiano uses American and French oak barrels—their Reposado XR (my new personal favorite) rests for eleven months developing notes of vanilla and caramel that complement the agave’s natural sweetness, while Añejo and Extra Añejo age for one and three years respectively, creating increasingly complex profiles while maintaining the blue weber agave’s essential character.
The Beauty of Arandas
Our distillery journey ended in and we had the opportunity to immerse ourselves in the rich culture and heritage of Arandas. We wandered through a vibrant local market, where colorful displays of fresh produce, handcrafted goods, and traditional foods offered a glimpse into authentic Mexican life. The market vendors welcomed us warmly, proud to share their local specialties and crafts that have been perfected over generations.
The architectural centerpiece of Arandas is undoubtedly its magnificent church, Parroquia de San José Obrero, whose towering neo-Gothic spires dominate the skyline. The plaza surrounding the church buzzed with local life—families gathering, children playing, and the distinct rhythm of a town that has maintained its cultural identity despite modernization elsewhere.
Beyond the Bottle: El Cristiano’s Purpose and Social Impact
What truly separates El Cristiano from other premium tequila brands is their remarkable commitment to philanthropy. After we left the church, we had the profound opportunity to visit Casa Hogar Portal De Belen Del Nino Jesus, a local orphanage in Arandas that receives direct support from El Cristiano. Meeting the children and staff who benefit from the brand’s charitable initiatives was a powerful reminder that this company’s mission extends far beyond producing exceptional tequila.
The genuine warmth and connection between the El Cristiano team and the orphanage staff spoke volumes about the long-term relationship they’ve built. It was clear that this wasn’t merely a corporate social responsibility checkbox—this was a heartfelt commitment to uplifting the very community that helps bring their tequila to life.
Golden Hour in the Agave Fields
The grand finale of our day was perhaps the most magical—watching the golden sunset cast long shadows among endless rows of blue weber agave plants, their blue-green spikes illuminated in the fading light. Standing there, at Golden Hour, surrounded by new friends and the source of this remarkable spirit, was absolutely breathtaking.
A Night On the Town
As the stars emerged over Jalisco, our group got all dolled up for what would become an unforgettable night on the town. I slipped into my favorite dress, added a bold lip color that matched the vibrant spirit of Mexico, and joined the others ready to embrace the legendary nightlife. We started the evening with rhythmic dancing and playful shots at the exclusive club next door, where the bass pulsed through the air and conversations flowed as freely as the music.
But the night was young, and our adventurous spirits led a group of us into the heart of town for some authentic bar hopping. Each venue had its own unique character – from intimate mezcalerias with flickering candlelight to energetic dance floors where locals taught us moves we’d never master back home. I laughed until my cheeks hurt, danced until my feet protested, and savored all the El Cristiano tequila I could drink, each sip smoother than the last. The locals welcomed us as if we were old friends, sharing stories and traditions that no guidebook could ever capture. By the time we stumbled back to our hotel in the early hours, breathless and exhilarated, I knew I had experienced the authentic soul of Jalisco nightlife – unfiltered, intoxicating, and absolutely magnificent.
Tequila… the Town!
Before I knew it, we arrived on the last day of our trip, and did we go out with a bang! Our grand finale took us to the town of Tequila itself — a UNESCO World Heritage site and the spirited heartland of Mexico’s most famous export! This charming pueblo mágico with its cobblestone streets set the stage for an unforgettable celebration at a heritage tequila distillery. The moment we arrived at the stunning open-air hacienda, El Cristiano cocktails appeared in our hands, and the party officially began! With colorful papel picado dancing overhead and endless agave fields stretching to the horizon, I knew we were in for something special.
What followed was the ultimate Mexican fiesta that kept me grinning from ear to ear! I stuffed myself with mouthwatering regional dishes while professional dancers twirled in vibrant costumes and mariachi music filled the air. The crowd went wild watching a horse dance in perfect rhythm (yes, an actual dancing horse!) and fearless knife throwers making impossibly precise throws. I couldn’t help myself — I kicked off my shoes and danced until my feet screamed for mercy, spinning around with new friends as tequila flowed freely in every imaginable form. Between the nonstop entertainment, delicious food, and enough El Cristiano to float a boat, this magical day in Tequila was the perfect exclamation point on our Mexican adventure!
More Than a Brand: The El Cristiano Family
Throughout my time with El Cristiano, one theme remained constant: family. What’s remarkable is how this family extends to include customers as well—El Cristiano doesn’t simply want consumers; they want members of their extended family who appreciate the care and quality that goes into each bottle. Whether you’re a longtime aficionado, or like me, new to premium tequila, there’s an immediate sense of welcome and inclusion when you enter the world of El Cristiano.
El Cristiano Locator
Currently available in multiple states across the US, El Cristiano has made particular inroads in Los Angeles, where you can find it at popular establishments like Barney’s Beanery, Good Times at Davey Wayne’s, and along the Sunset Strip at hotspots including BOA, Harriet’s, and the popular sushi restaurant Katana.The brand has also become a staple at celebrity favorites Delilah, and Bootsy Bellows, cementing its status as the tequila of choice for those in the know.
Until We Meet Again
As I left the warmth of Jalisco and the El Cristiano family behind, I carried with me not just memories of exceptional tequila, but of people passionate about creating something meaningful—something that honors the land, the tradition, and the community that makes it all possible. That, perhaps even more than the remarkable liquid in the bottle, is what makes El Cristiano truly special.
Whether you’re sipping it neat to appreciate its complexity or mixing it into a carefully crafted cocktail, El Cristiano offers one of the best tequila experiences that’s built on respect for tradition, unwavering quality standards, and genuine human connection.
Hopefully we’ll meet again next year for #FIFTHFLIGHT! Though I entered this time as a newcomer, I’ll return next year as part of the El Cristiano family, eager to reconnect with friends both old and new, ready to discover more hidden gems in Jalisco, and of course, ready to drink TEQUILA!
The Best Tequila for Cinco de Mayo: El Cristiano Margarita Recipe
With Cinco de Mayo approaching, there’s no better time to experience El Cristiano for yourself. Here’s an at-home margarita recipe featuring my favorite, the Reposado:
El Cristiano Premium Margarita
Ingredients:
- 2 oz El Cristiano Reposado Tequila (I prefer the XR)
- 1 oz fresh lime juice
- 1/2 oz agave nectar
- 1/4 oz orange liqueur
- Tajín or salt for rim (optional)
- Lime wheel for garnish
- Directions: If desired, rim a rocks glass with Tajín or salt. Fill a shaker with ice, add all liquid ingredients. Shake vigorously for 15 seconds. Strain over fresh ice in the prepared glass. Garnish with a lime wheel. Enjoy!
The complex notes of the Reposado shine through in this simple recipe, offering hints of vanilla and oak that perfectly complement the bright citrus flavors without overwhelming them. Cheers!
Have you tried El Cristiano yet? I’d love to hear about your experience with this exceptional tequila in the comments below!
