When someone says the word ‘Tequila’, hazy memories of 3am shots and an ensuing sore head the next morning might be among the things that first spring to mind. Well, it’s time for that perception to change: with a little help from El Rayo Tequila. They’re on a mission to change the way you think and drink Tequila. No more cheap shots; their single-ingredient Tequila is designed to pair with tonic. Yes, tonic. Creating a deliciously light and naturally refreshing long drink.
Yes, you read that right - Tequila as a long drink. Their fresh take on the spirit we all know and love (or love to hate?) is all about slowing it down and keeping it clean.
It all started one night in Peckham when best mates of 20+ years Tom & Jack ran out of beers. They decided they’d crack open a bottle of Tequila Tom’s brother brought back from Mexico a few months before, which had been sitting gathering dust on the shelf. They were hooked from the first sip. Intoxicated by that first taste (figuratively and literally) they delved deeper into the world of Tequila, but quickly realised that aside from shotting, neat sipping or sugary cocktails, the options to enjoy it were limited.
They wanted to enjoy Tequila in different occasions, like that first drink after work or with dinner on a Sunday afternoon. That’s when a bartender introduced them to their first T&T, and there it was: the perfect way to enjoy Tequila. Fresh, clean and full of natural flavours.
They then quit their jobs, headed to Guadalajara and met Mexican designer Mario who immersed them in the incredible culture which is modern Mexico: vibrant, fresh and full of attitude and depth. With the help of Mario and one of only 200 Maestro Tequileros in the world, Oscar Garcia, they set to work on creating a modern Tequila to share some of that magic. Launching in 2019, they’ve been doing just that ever since.
El Rayo have two Tequilas: The Plata and the Reposado. Both are made from 100% blue agave, which is grown for 8 years in the highlands of Mexico, before being twice distilled in 100% copper stills to draw out the raw plant freshness. No. 1 Plata is hand-bottled straight from the stills, with herbal aromas, cracked black pepper and a lingering touch of zesty citrus. No. 2 Reposado is rested for 7 months in ex-Bourbon barrels, smoothing out those crisp edges and bringing out its softer, warmer side. Slightly sweeter and full of honied vanilla notes.
