Don Gato Tequila is making a splash in Charlottesville, and the story behind the brand is as unusual as the masked wrestler himself. Driven by a confluence of celebrity-backed spirits trends and a commitment to quality, Don Gato’s rapid rise has captured the attention of the burgeoning spirits market.
River Hawkins, owner of The Bebedero and Mejicali, a Charlottesville institution, credits the brand’s success to its playful spirit. “Spirits are supposed to be fun,” Hawkins stated, a sentiment evident in the brand’s core identity. The initial spark came when a UVA student, representing the brand, walked into The Bebedero. This encounter led to the formation of Don Gato Tequila, with co-founders Chad Walldorf and his team.
The brand’s origin story is rooted in the eccentric world of Virginia native and comedic actor Danny McBride. McBride, known for his roles in “Eastbound and Down” and “The Righteous Gemstones,” began his career as a bartender at the now-defunct Orbit’s in Fredericksburg. McBride, along with Hawkins and Walldorf, sought to bring their vision to life. They traveled to Jalisco, Mexico, and meticulously selected Casa Natima as their distillery partner. Casa Natima is lauded for its additive-free spirits, including Tequila Komos and Astral, and utilizes traditional brick ovens for agave cooking – a key distinction from many mezcals, which rely on pit-roasted agave for a signature smoky flavor.
Don Gato’s initial success has been remarkably swift, fueled by a viral trend: the appearance of traditional Mexican velvet paintings of the masked wrestler in bars and restaurants across Charlottesville, including Continental Divide, Maya, Livery Stable, and others. The brand’s distinctive sculpted tap handle, a miniature depiction of the wrestler, further solidified its presence. The blanco expression has garnered gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition and was awarded ‘Best in Show’ at the New York World Spirits Competition, demonstrating high-level quality.
Distribution of Don Gato Tequila has exploded, reaching 13 states by the end of 2025. However, the exact number of states where the tequila is currently available remains to be confirmed. Despite the brand’s rapid growth, its focus remains on quality and authenticity, driven by the unique vision of its founders.
