From Kendall Jenner and The Rock to former NFL/NHL pros James Robert Morris and Chris Chelios, celebrities are making a splash in the tequila scene.

Meet the newest tequila brand on the block—El Bandido Yankee Tequila Company. The label launched this summer by two former pro athletes and entrepreneurs with a longtime dream of developing a spirit that reflects their drive for excellence and integrity. 

With transparency at the forefront of its ethos, the brand prides itself on its authentic approach to the age-old history and tradition of tequila—with an empowered twist. Nestled in the quaint town of Jalisco, El Viejito Distillery operates under the female direction of master distiller Karina Rojo. There, the team strives to pay homage to the region’s heritage, give back to local sustainability efforts and improve lives through the help of S.A.C.R.E.D—a not-for-profit that supports rural Mexican communities. With authenticity, reverence and a sustainable mission, the brand is poised to create a powerful legacy. 

• Tangy citrus and notes of pepper are juxtaposed with buttery vanilla for a criminally smooth flavor profile. Blended with 100 percent blue Weber agave—known for its particularly sweet, tropical and caramel-like taste—the sipping spirit breaks boundaries with a flair. This blanco is perfect on the rocks, or incorporated into a craft cocktail. 
• Just like its younger counterpart, the reposado touts a bold flavor with no additives. Stripped and recharred American oak bourbon barrels contribute a woody hint to the tequila’s aging process, resulting in a harmonious blend of warm agave, toasted oak and vanilla. It’s every synonym of velvety, without the typical “tequila burn.” 

HONORABLE MENTIONS

Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson - Teremana

Meaning “spirit of the earth,” the 2020-founded company is the definition of brightness, sustainability and community. The brick oven roasted tequila is offered in a blanco and reposado, and true to the star’s coined phrase—“Manna. Gratitude. Tequila.”—was created to celebrate the small, meaningful moments in life. The brand has even made an appearance in Johnson’s famous cheat meals in the form of tequila-soaked coconut chips and tequila maple syrup.

Flavor profile: Earthy and herbal, with notes of caramel and citrus zest. 

Kendall Jenner - 818

The model-turned-connoisseur stepped onto the scene earlier this year with her award-winning tequila trio—blanco, reposado and añejo. Named after her hometown area code, Jenner’s brand has been four years in the making and won countless world tasting competitions before its official launch. The tequila supports community and planet-saving initiatives, and its star-studded launch party garnered the likes of Drake, Justin Bieber, Katy Perry and more. 

Flavor profile: Bold, fresh and sweet, with vanilla notes.

Nick Jonas - Villa One

Almost as smooth as his tequila was Jonas’ foray into agave spirits in 2019, inspired by a trip to Mexico with friend and fashion designer John Varvatos. The co-founders created three expressions—silver, añejo and reposado—with a unique combination of blue Weber agave from both highland and lowland regions of Mexico. Jonas’ favorite cocktail? Reposado on the rocks, with club soda and an orange wedge.  

Flavor profile: Floral and nutty, with pineapple and banana cream.