El Tequileño coming to UK through new distributor Ten Locks

Tequila brand El Tequileño has partnered with distributor Ten Locks to bring its products to retail and hospitality venues in the UK.

Two expressions, Blanco and Reposado, will be available to retailers and the on-trade in early 2021, while the remaining products - Platinum, Reposado Gran Reserva, Añejo Gran Reserva and the world's first Reposado Rare - are expected to land later in the year. 

Founded in 1959 by tequila pioneer Don Jorge Salles Cuervo, El Tequileño was named to honour the people of Tequila, Mexico and has since gained a reputation for its products among consumers and customers.

Third-generation master distiller, Antonio Salles, still uses the same processes his grandfather devised to produce the brand's tequilas. The range is certified additive-free and all six expressions are made using sustainable techniques, with 98 per cent of residuals from the production process recycled and turned into fertiliser for new agave plants.   

El Tequileño is the favoured tequila brand at La Capilla Cantina in Tequila, founded by the late Don Javier Delgado Corona and a regular fixture in the World's Top 50 Bars list.

Becky Davies, head of commercial at Ten Locks, said: "The arrival of El Tequileño is much anticipated within the drinks trade; our talks reveal this to be one of the spirits brands that's really in demand, especially the Reposado Rare. We're proud to be the first to bring it to the UK and see real promise for the brand as the trade is able to tap into increasing consumer appetite for tequila and unlock the potential of a sector that's really showing momentum."

Steffin Oghene, vice president of business development at El Tequileño, said: "Our goal was to find a UK partner who shared our vision and ethics, while understanding the truly special proposition of El Tequileño. In Ten Locks, we have the perfect partner: the team is curating an exceptional portfolio of premium spirits and we're excited to be among the foremost listings. This is one of our first export projects, and we look forward to being welcomed by the UK drinks sector."

16 November 2020 - Bethany Whymark