Grand slammers
In 2026, the tequila and agave spirits category will be driven by continued premiumisation and demand for authentic, high-quality products, says Drinksology Kirker Greer. The fastest growth is expected in the super-premium segment, particularly for 100% agave tequilas, aged expressions such as añejo and extra añejo, and artisanal mezcal. According to IWSR forecasts, tequila continues to outperform the wider global spirits market, supported by strong consumer interest in provenance, craft production and premium cocktail culture. Tequila-based cocktails such as Margaritas and Palomas continue to grow in popularity, while sipping tequilas are expanding the category beyond traditional occasions. As a result, agave spirits are expected to continue delivering strong global value growth through 2026.
Spookily good
Ghost Tequila combines premium 100% Weber Blue Agave tequila with just the right amount of spice
Ghost Tequila is a 100% Weber Blue Agave spicy tequila infused with just a pinch of Ghost pepper, delivering a balanced kick of heat without overwhelming the agave character. Created behind the bar and perfected in Jalisco, Mexico, Ghost Tequila is, quite simply, “Perfectly Spicy.”
The brand recently showcased its versatility through a national cocktail competition in Ireland, culminating in a final, and industry night, at the Dublin Bar Academy. James Barber of Upstairs at McSorley’s claimed top honours with his cocktail, Beso Caliente — a creative blend of Ghost Tequila, Bui 43 Herbal Liqueur, lime, pineapple, homemade ultimate passion syrup, homemade Besomé bitters, and Poachers Soda Water. “Ghost Tequila is one of the few brands that truly fills a real need behind the bar. It combines premium 100% Weber Blue Agave tequila with just the right amount of spice, giving bartenders a distinctive ingredient that adds excitement to cocktails without overpowering them,” says John McDonnell, executive chairman of the board at Ghost Tequila. “It’s been fantastic to see Irish bartenders and consumers embrace that versatility.”
For a simple serve, try the “Perfectly Spicy Margarita:” shake 45ml Ghost Tequila, 15ml agave nectar and 22ml fresh lime juice with ice, then strain into a salt-rimmed glass over fresh ice. Ghost Tequila is distributed in Ireland by Comans Beverages.
250 years of tequila crafting
Lunazul is made at the Tierra de Agaves distillery in the heart of Jalisco, Mexico
For more than 250 years, the Beckmann family has been shaping the story of tequila. Today, that legacy lives on through Lunazul, an authentic 100% Blue Weber Agave tequila crafted at the familyowned Tierra de Agaves distillery in the heart of Jalisco, Mexico. With eight generations of tequilamaking heritage behind every bottle, Lunazul proves that exceptional quality doesn’t have to come at an unattainable price. That commitment to authenticity is driving impressive momentum. Lunazul has been recognised among the world’s top-selling tequila brands in The Spirits Business 2025 Brand Champions Report and continues to rank among the fastest-growing tequila brands by year-on-year 9-litre case growth. As the tequila category
Lunazul is standing out by delivering genuine 100% agave tequila with exceptional quality and value. Unlike many brands, Lunazul is estate bottled at a single-brand distillery, giving the Beckmann family complete control over every stage of production, from agave field to bottle. The agave is hand-harvested at peak maturity, slowcooked to develop rich natural flavours, fermented using a proprietary family yeast strain, and twice distilled before every batch is personally approved by Master Tequilero Francisco Quijano. The result is a tequila that delivers remarkable consistency, exceptional smoothness and unmistakable authenticity.
Lunazul’s commitment to craftsmanship is matched by its commitment to sustainability. At Tierra de Agaves, more than 1,500 solar panels power around 90% of the tequila-making operation, while agave fibres and production byproducts are transformed into organic fertiliser through a state-of-the-art biodigester.
This closed-loop approach helps nourish future agave crops and reflects a philosophy of caring for the land that has sustained the Beckmann family for generations. As tequila continues to gain momentum across international markets, consumers are increasingly looking beyond celebrity brands in favour of producers with genuine provenance and craftsmanship.
Lunazul answers that demand with a portfolio that celebrates traditional tequila-making while delivering exceptional versatility behind the bar. Whether enjoyed in a perfectly balanced Margarita, a refreshing Paloma or simply sipped neat, Lunazul allows the vibrant character of 100% agave to shine. Lunazul is distributed by Barry and Fitzwilliam.
Born out of friendship
Created by longtime friends George Clooney, Rande Gerber and Mike Meldman, Casamigos was born from a simple idea: to make a smooth, ultra premium tequila that could be enjoyed with friends without salt or lime. Crafted from 100% Blue Weber agave, slow-roasted in traditional brick ovens, Casamigos delivers a soft, approachable style across its Blanco, Reposado and Añejo expressions, alongside a characterful Mezcal made from Espadín agave. With its clean, contemporary packaging and easy-drinking profile, Casamigos has become a standout choice for premium serves, from sipping neat to elevating Margaritas and Palomas, making it highly versatile behind the bar and listed across multiple retailers, bars and venues in Ireland today.
Quality over quantity
Don Julio is one of tequila’s most iconic names, rooted in the pioneering vision of Don Julio González, who began making tequila in Jalisco in 1942 with a focus on quality over quantity. Made using carefully cultivated 100% Blue Weber agave from Jalisco’s rich clay soils, the range showcases craftsmanship, balance and depth across Blanco, Reposado, Añejo and luxury expressions including Don Julio 1942. Elegant, refined and highly respected by bartenders and tequila drinkers alike, Don Julio brings heritage and prestige to classic cocktails, celebratory serves and premium sipping occasions.
Full of soul
While tequila continues to drive significant growth within the agave category, we’re seeing increasing curiosity around artisanal mezcal as consumers look beyond the mainstream for spirits with genuine provenance and character. According to Ryan McFarland, chief commercial & strategy officer, Drinksology Kirker Greer, says Del Suelo Mezcal is well positioned to meet that demand, championing traditional production methods, quality agave and the craftsmanship that today’s premium spirits drinkers increasingly value.
“Del Suelo has found a natural audience among bartenders, cocktail enthusiasts and the wider creative community, as well as craft beer drinkers who are drawn to mezcal’s complexity, distinctive flavour profile and the heritage behind every bottle. It’s the kind of spirit that belongs on the back bar of leading cocktail venues, but equally in the home collection of people who enjoy discovering artisanal spirits.”
Looking ahead, McFarland believes that the next phase of growth for mezcal won’t simply come from wider distribution. It will come from creating more meaningful occasions to enjoy agave spirits, whether through premium cocktails, food pairings or sipping serves that showcase the category’s depth and character. Education will continue to play a crucial role, helping more people understand what makes mezcal so distinctive and broadening appreciation of the category.
“Mezcal’s global momentum is undeniable, but its artisanal production and agricultural constraints mean it will always remain a more selective category than tequila. We see that as one of its greatest strengths. As drinkers become more willing to invest in quality, transparency and provenance, brands like Del Suelo are well placed to thrive. Mezcal’s appeal is rooted in its soul.
It’s not just a drink; it’s culture, community and creativity distilled into a glass. That’s what will keep people coming back,” says McFarland.
