As America’s second largest tequila consuming state, it’s no surprise to see Texas start releasing a bottling they call their own. Created by three allas/Ft. Worth-based entrepreneurs, La Pulga Tequila was distilled and bottled in Jalisco, Mexico but “proudly born here in Texas,” says the press release.
La Pulga Tequila is an artisanal, additive-free 100% agave tequila that takes its name from the La Pulga outdoor market on the Northside of Ft. Worth, one of the oldest open-air flea markets in the US.
The brand was founded by Sarah Castillo, a wlocal restaurateur (Taco Heads, Tinies Mexican Cuisine, Sidesaddle Saloon); Andrew De La Torre, a club owner and the operator of Pequeño Mexico; and Stephen Slaughter, a local entrepreneur and real estate developer.
“Mexico and Texas share a rich cultural heritage and connection, and our goal is to preserve and celebrate those strong community ties through the lens of traditional spirits,” says Castillo, who was born and raised in Ft. Worth. “La Pulga Tequila is crafted in Mexico, but the idea and the genesis of this brand is firmly rooted right here in Texas, where we’re proud to call home.”
Also recently joining the La Pulga team as the company’s Head of Spirits is Ale Ochoa, who was formerly a Whiskey Scientist and Master Blender at Firestone & Robertson Distilling Co. (TX Whiskey).
La Pulga Tequila is distilled using 100% Weber Blue Agave and crafted with traditional methods in the Highlands of Jalisco, Mexico. The brand launches with La Pulga Tequila Blanco, an unaged silver tequila (80 proof) characterized by its floral aroma and taste notes of cooked agave, grapefruit, anise, and honey; and La Pulga Tequila Reposado (80 proof) that is aged for 7 months in ex-bourbon barrels to impart flavors of agave, burnt sugar, licorice, honey, and black pepper.
Both La Pulga tequilas are available through Republic National Distributing Company (RNDC) at bars and restaurants throughout Texas, and at fine spirits retailers. The Blanco is priced at $44.99, while the Reposado costs $54.99 SRP. It’s also available for purchase online via the brand’s official website.