In the ever-evolving world of fine spirits, a new contender has arrived with sophistication, spice, and a smoky edge. Meet Cortada Smoked Tequila, the latest launch by Luxco Inc., designed specifically for refined palates craving something bold and different. This smoked tequila for upscale cocktails isn’t just another spirit—it’s a deliberate blend of heritage and innovation, distilled from a centuries-old family recipe rediscovered by fourth-generation Master Distiller Graciela “Grace” Gonzalez. With its exclusive debut in Denver and select e-commerce outlets, Cortada is already turning heads with its smoky complexity and cocktail versatility.
A New Chapter in Tequila: From Jalisco to Denver
Cortada begins its journey in the highlands and valleys of Jalisco, Mexico—where the 100% Blue Weber Agave is hand-selected at peak maturity. But what truly sets this tequila apart is the twist: after cooking, the agave is smoked over Mexican Oak and Mesquite wood, resulting in an earthy, spiced aroma that subtly lingers without overwhelming the agave’s natural sweetness.
“Cortada represents generations of masterful craft and innovation,” said Gonzalez. “It’s elegant, but also has a spicy side. Denver is a perfect launch city – a place with rich, cultural history that’s always pushing the envelope to create what comes next.”
This smoky tequila is already sparking creativity in Denver’s top-tier bars, with local mixologists embracing it for new twists on beloved classics.
Blanco or Reposado? The Dual Personalities of Cortada
Cortada is available in two expressions, both tailored for sipping or mixing into upscale smoked tequila cocktails:
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Cortada Blanco ($49.99) – The purest expression of the agave. Expect notes of ripe pineapple, agave molasses, and a wood-fired finish. Ideal in a Smoky Margarita or neat on a warm Aspen evening.
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Cortada Reposado ($54.99) – Aged in bourbon barrels, this offers deeper flavor. Think dark chocolate, pepper, clove, and that signature smoky trace. It’s a compelling alternative for whiskey lovers seeking complexity in their cocktail base.
“Smoked spirits are igniting fresh creativity across the spirits world – and Cortada brings that bold innovation to tequila,” said Brand Manager Kayleigh Longo.
Mixology Reinvented: The Cortada Effect
In an age where mixology is an art form, smoked tequila for upscale cocktails is more than a trend—it’s an evolution. Cortada invites experimentation while still delivering balance and subtlety.
One standout example is the Smoky Ranch Water:
Smoky Ranch Water Recipe
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1.5oz Cortada
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Soda water
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Fresh lime
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Smoked salt rim or grapefruit bitter float
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Dehydrated lime or grapefruit garnish
This drink is already becoming a summer favorite from Los Angeles rooftops to chic patios in Chicago’s Gold Coast.
Bartenders in Miami Beach are pairing Cortada with mezcal to create layered, smoky palomas. In Manhattan, Cortada Reposado is being stirred into Old Fashioneds with cacao bitters, appealing to bourbon drinkers looking for a twist.
Where to Find Cortada: Exclusive, But Accessible
While currently exclusive to Denver in retail, Cortada Smoked Tequila is also available for nationwide shipping through Shared Pour—making it accessible from Boston to San Francisco. The sleek bottle and refined branding make it a natural addition to any curated home bar or as a thoughtful gift for spirit connoisseurs.
Visit cortadatequila.com to explore the brand story, origin, and pairing suggestions.
Why Cortada Is the Next Big Thing in Tequila
Cortada isn’t trying to be the loudest in the room—it’s the most intriguing. Its careful use of smoke, balanced aging, and handcrafted ethos position it as a must-try spirit for anyone invested in quality and innovation.
For those in cosmopolitan cities seeking to elevate their tequila experience beyond the ordinary, Cortada delivers a smoked tequila for upscale cocktails that is both traditional and daring. With roots in family legacy and an eye toward the future, this tequila invites you to sip slowly, mix creatively, and savor the unexpected.
