Behind the Bottle: Tequila Tales by Celia Maestri

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He doesn’t drink anything but agave spirits… but why? 

In this episode of Behind the Bottle, we sit down with Pablo Portilla, agave spirits connoisseur and General Manager at Tucans Mexican Kitchen, to explore his deep passion for Mexican agave spirits, the craftsmanship behind every pour, and his journey through the spirits and hospitality industry.

From agave to the kitchen, Pablo shares the story behind his passion and the dream that led him to become a chef. 

🎙️ Listen now and discover the story Behind the Bottle.

Thank you for listening! Follow us at @CasaMaestri and experience the magic! 

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What happens when you lose it all, give yourself permission to transform, and say YES?

In this episode of Behind the Bottle, Chad Nell shares the incredible journey behind F*ck Yes Tequila from losing everything and driving across America 50 times to save money, to following his passion and turning a bold vision into a tequila brand.

For Chad, “F*ck Yes” is more than a name. It’s a philosophy: say YES to life, give yourself permission to transform, listen to your inner child, generate abundance, and infuse more joy into your life.

Thank you for listening! Follow us at @CasaMaestri and experience the magic! 

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What inspired the iconic dog-shaped bottle of El Perro Grande Tequila?

In this episode of Behind the Bottle, Celia Maestri sits down with Renard Johnson, Mayor of El Paso, and Dairen Sanchez, CEO of El Perro Grande Tequila, to uncover the inspiring story behind the brand. From the meaning behind their iconic bottle to the journey of building a premium tequila rooted in resilience, grit, and purpose, they share the vision, values, and entrepreneurial spirit that continue to shape El Perro Grande.

Whether you’re passionate about tequila, entrepreneurship, leadership, or founder stories, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

Thank you for listening! Follow us at @CasaMaestri and experience the magic! 

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In this episode of Behind the Bottle, we sit down with Tanya Sklar, Export Director of Wine & Spirits International and a proud 6th generation member of her family’s spirits legacy.

From learning the business at a young age to continuing the passion alongside her family today, Tanya shares a story rooted in heritage, dedication, and lifelong friendships that trace back to her grandfather and Doña Celia herself.

A beautiful conversation about legacy, tradition, and the people behind every bottle. 

Thank you for listening! Follow us at @CasaMaestri and experience the magic! 

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In this episode of Behind the Bottle, Martin Luca, founder of Casa Capistrano Tequila, shares how a visit to Mexico transformed his career and ignited a passion for tequila.

Inspired by his father’s expertise in wine, Martin developed an early appreciation for fine spirits. But it was Mexico’s rich culture, traditions, and the artistry behind tequila that truly captured his heart. This life-changing experience led him to create a brand rooted not only in craftsmanship but also in a mission to give back and support the communities that inspired him.

Thank you for listening! Follow us at @CasaMaestri and experience the magic! 

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In this episode, Celia Maestri talks with Selene Estrada, Director of Hispanic Portfolio at Mexcor, about her journey in the spirits industry and her mission to elevate Hispanic products worldwide.

Rooted in culture and driven by passion, Selene is helping bring the magic of Mexican spirits to a global audience while creating opportunities for representation and growth.

Don’t miss this inspiring conversation about purpose, culture, and building a movement.

Thank you for listening! Follow us at @CasaMaestri and experience the magic! 

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In this Behind the Bottle episode, Saul Torres shares how a first-generation Mexican-American with no industry experience trusted timing, belief, and purpose to build Satoma Tequila.

A story rooted in faith, hard work, and the courage to say yes.

Thank you for listening! Follow us at @CasaMaestri and experience the magic! 

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In this episode of Behind the Bottle, Adriana Arechiga, Operations Manager at Casa Maestri Tequila, shares how a career shift she didn’t see coming led her into an industry she never imagined herself in. What began as curiosity quickly turned into a deep appreciation for the process, the people, and the magic behind every bottle.

Thank you for listening! Follow us at @CasaMaestri and experience the magic! 

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On this episode of Behind the Bottle, meet Melinda Finnegan, SVP of Sales at Casa Maestri Tequila. From Shark Tank success stories to scaling multimillion-dollar brands, Melinda shares her journey, key lessons in brand growth, and the unexpected call from Mrs. Celia Maestri that led her to help shape the future of Casa Maestri.

Thank you for listening! Follow us at @CasaMaestri and experience the magic! 

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In this episode of Behind the Bottle, we sit down with Dave Blagg to uncover the unexpected journey behind Serpentes Tequila. From owning a liquor store to stepping into the tequila industry, Dave shares how a chance meeting led to the right partnership — and how a bold, snake-shaped bottle he never expected to work became one of the brand’s most iconic and sought-after designs.

A story of risk, timing, and trusting the journey, this is an inspiring conversation about following a dream you never planned — and building something truly unforgettable.

Thank you for listening! Follow us at @CasaMaestri and experience the magic!