BY MELISSA DOWLING
THE AGAVE SPIRIT CONTINUES TO CLIMB
If you need further evidence of tequila ’ s popularity , preliminary 2022 data indicates that the agave spirit has surpassed American whiskey by value to become the second most valuable spirits subcategory in the U . S . And according to IWSR Drinks Market Analysis , tequila is set to overtake vodka in 2023 to become the industry leader by value .
Online alcohol delivery service Drizly finds that 64 % of retailers surveyed plan to give the agave-based spirit more shelf space than any other spirit next year . In its 2022 Retail Report , Drizly also notes that 54 % of retailers said that tequila has overperformed their expectations this past year , outpacing all other spirits .
What is it about tequila that has captivated American consumers ? The spirit ’ s sense of place and provenance , for one , as well as its authenticity .
The greater availability of high-quality products is another factor . Increased interest in Mexican culture and cuisine , including events such as Cinco de Mayo and Día de los Muertos ( Day of the Dead ) also contributes to tequila ’ s allure .
18 • Spring 2023 www . cheersonline . com