The spirits world is rarely predictable, but lately, it’s been buzzing with a particularly intriguing and, frankly, unexpected development: Coffee Tequila. For decades, the idea of marrying the fiery agave of tequila with the rich, aromatic notes of coffee has lingered as a niche curiosity. Now, thanks to the pioneering efforts of Los Jilgueros distillery in Jalisco, Mexico, that idea has become a tangible reality, and it’s already generating a serious stir – and a whole lot of debate about whether it’s genius or madness.
Alma: The First Legitimate Coffee Tequila
For years, the concept of combining tequila with coffee existed primarily in the realm of imaginative cocktail recipes and artisanal infusions. However, the emergence of *Alma*, Los Jilgueros distillery’s first fully-fledged coffee tequila, marks a significant shift. No longer a fleeting trend or a whispered possibility, Alma is now available for purchase, and, remarkably, it tastes exactly like coffee – but in a way that elevates and complements the tequila itself. According to *Forbes*, this isn’t simply a novelty spirit designed for a fleeting Instagram moment; it’s a carefully crafted product intended for a discerning palate seeking a genuinely complex and layered drinking experience. The distillery’s ambition is clear: to demonstrate that coffee and tequila aren’t just compatible, but capable of creating something truly unique.
How It’s Made – A Harmonious Fusion
Los Jilgueros distillery hasn’t arrived at this point overnight. They’ve been meticulously experimenting with coffee infusions for quite some time, building a foundation of expertise. However, this is the first time they’ve successfully integrated coffee into the core of a tequila production. Their approach is rooted in traditional agave spirit production methods, honoring the heritage and craft of tequila making while simultaneously pushing the boundaries of flavor. Crucially, they utilize high-quality Arabica beans, carefully selected for their aromatic complexity. As *Mezcalistas* explained, the goal is to create a tequila with subtle, complex coffee notes – a truly intriguing exploration of flavor, designed to avoid the pitfalls of creating a generic coffee liqueur. The key is balance; they’ve skillfully navigated the potential for overpowering sweetness or a cloying texture. The process involves macerating the beans with the agave piña (the heart of the agave plant) before distillation, capturing the bean’s oils and flavors.
What Does It Taste Like? – More Than Just Coffee
While the full complexity of Alma is still unfolding through wider tasting experiences, initial reports paint a remarkably harmonious picture. It’s not a straightforward coffee liqueur, relying on added sugar and artificial flavoring. Instead, the coffee contributes depth and nuance to the tequila’s agave character, creating a richer, more layered flavor profile. Tasting notes suggest a blend of rich, earthy undertones – reminiscent of dark chocolate and roasted nuts – combined with the familiar tequila spice, including hints of cinnamon and vanilla. The agave’s signature crispness is still present, acting as a counterpoint to the coffee’s warmth. Many reviewers have commented on the spirit’s velvety mouthfeel, attributed to the carefully controlled extraction process. It’s a spirit that demands attention, rewarding those who take the time to savor its intricate layers.
A Sign of Things to Come? – Expanding the Flavor Palette
The emergence of Alma isn’t just a quirky experiment driven by the distillery’s inventive spirit – it’s a potential sign of the future of flavored spirits. *Tasting Panel Magazine* has suggested this could open doors for other producers to explore similar combinations, envisioning possibilities like bourbon with maple syrup, rum with passion fruit, or even whiskey with smoked tea. The success of Alma demonstrates a growing willingness within the spirits industry to embrace experimentation and blur the lines between categories. It suggests a shift towards a more personalized and exploratory approach to tasting, where consumers are increasingly seeking out unique and unexpected flavor combinations. This could lead to a golden age of innovative spirits, driven by the creativity of producers and the adventurous palates of drinkers.
Where to Find It – A Limited Release
Currently, Alma is available for purchase online only, through the Los Jilgueros website. [You can find it here](https://www.forbes.com/sites/jeanettehurt/2026/02/03/the-first-true-coffee-tequila-is-now-available-online-only/). Production is limited, adding to the exclusivity and desirability of the spirit.
Are you brave enough to take a sip?
The debate continues, but one thing’s certain: Coffee Tequila is here, and it’s challenging our preconceptions about what tequila – and spirits in general – can be.
