When it comes to tequila, few names carry as much weight as Don Julio. It’s a brand that’s synonymous with quality, tradition, and luxury. But did you know that the grandson of the original Don Julio has created his own tequila brand? Meet Lalo Tequila, a brand founded by Eduardo “Lalo” González, the grandson of Don Julio himself.

I recently had the chance to dive deep into Lalo Tequila, from its fascinating backstory to its flavor profile, and even got to sit down with Lalo González for an exclusive interview. Is Lalo Tequila the next Don Julio? Let’s find out.

The Story Behind Lalo Tequila

Lalo was founded five years ago by Eduardo “Lalo” González and his childhood friend, David Carballido, who has extensive experience in the tequila industry. The name “Lalo” comes from a nickname given to Eduardo by his grandfather, the original Don Julio.

What I find most intriguing about Lalo is its focus on simplicity and tradition. While Don Julio offers a wide range of expressions, Lalo has chosen to focus solely on Blanco tequila. According to Lalo, this decision is about honoring the roots of tequila and showcasing the complexity of the agave plant itself.

The Bottle: Sleek, Simple, and Striking

One of the first things that caught my eye about Lalo Tequila is its bottle design. It’s clean, minimalist, and elegant—a reflection of the brand’s mission to strip tequila back to its roots. The branding is understated yet impactful, and I think it perfectly captures the essence of what Lalo is trying to achieve: a return to the basics of tequila-making.

The Flavor Profile: What Does Lalo Tequila Taste Like?

Now, let’s get to the most important part: the taste. Lalo currently offers two expressions—their Blanco and a limited-edition High Proof Blanco. Here’s my take on both:

Lalo Blanco

• Nose: Citrus, black pepper, and a hint of earthy agave.
• Palate: Bright, crisp, and refreshing. You’ll notice flavors of cooked agave, a touch of cinnamon, and a peppery finish. It’s smooth, easy to sip, and incredibly versatile.

Lalo High Proof Blanco

• Nose: More intense citrus and pepper notes, with a stronger vegetal aroma.
• Palate: Bold and spicy, with a warm, lingering finish. The higher proof amplifies the agave flavors, making it a standout for tequila enthusiasts.

Both expressions are additive-free, which is something I always look for in a quality tequila. The flavors are clean, authentic, and true to the agave.

My Conversation with Lalo González

During a recent event in New Orleans, I had the privilege of sitting down with Lalo González to talk about his vision for the brand. When I asked him why he decided to create his own tequila, he shared that it was about building his own legacy while honoring his family’s heritage.

“I wanted to give this a try,” he said. “I didn’t know if I’d be passionate about it, but I wanted to create something authentic and true to my roots.”

Lalo also emphasized the importance of focusing solely on Blanco tequila. “We’re trying to showcase the beauty of the agave plant in its purest form,” he explained. “It’s about simplicity and craftsmanship.”

How Does Lalo Compare to Don Julio?

As the grandson of Don Julio, Lalo González has big shoes to fill. Don Julio is one of the most iconic tequila brands in the world, known for its rich history and premium offerings. But Lalo Tequila isn’t trying to be Don Julio—it’s carving out its own path.

While Don Julio offers a wide range of expressions (Blanco, Reposado, Añejo, and more), Lalo is focused solely on Blanco tequila. This singular focus allows the brand to perfect its craft and deliver a product that’s both authentic and accessible.

In terms of flavor, Lalo’s Blanco is crisp, clean, and refreshing—perfect for sipping or mixing into cocktails. It’s a tequila that appeals to both newcomers and seasoned tequila drinkers alike.

Final Thoughts

Lalo Tequila is more than just a tequila—it’s a legacy. With its focus on Blanco tequila, clean flavors, and commitment to tradition, Lalo is a brand that’s making waves in the industry. Whether you’re a fan of Don Julio or just looking for a high-quality, additive-free tequila, Lalo is definitely worth a try.

So, the next time you’re browsing the tequila aisle, skip the familiar bottle of Don Julio and give Lalo a chance. You might just discover your new favorite tequila.