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Join us for an in-depth conversation with Carlos and Fanny Camarena as they unveil the story, craftsmanship, and innovation behind Tequila Curado, a brand that bridges heritage with modern creativity. Discover how this unique infusion process is redefining tequila while respecting its roots.

In this episode we explore the detailed process of producing Curado, from agave sourcing to infusion techniques, the concept of natural infusions as traditional agave "abocantes" versus chemical additives and the relationship between tequila and mezcal, emphasizing cultural and environmental aspects.

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Carlos C. Camarena is an agronomist, third-generation tequila producer and fifth-generation agave grower from Arandas, Jalisco. As Master Distiller of Tequila Curado, Ocho, El Tesoro, and Tapatío, he is recognized for his dedication to traditional production methods and for highlighting the unique character of individual agave fields. With decades of experience in both farming and tequila production, Carlos is widely respected as one of the leading voices in premium tequila. His work continues to honor his family's legacy while helping shape the future of the category.

Fany Camarena is the oldest of 3 daughters, a fourth-generation tequila producer and sixth-generation agave farmer from Arandas, Jalisco. As Commercial and Administrative Director of "Tequilera Los Alambiques", she oversees commercial strategy, marketing, hospitality, and brand development while helping preserve the family's commitment to quality and authenticity. With more than a decade of experience in the tequila industry, Fany combines a deep respect for tradition with a passion for innovation and consumer education. She represents the next generation of the Camarena family's tequila legacy.

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Production: Tyson Ellert

Music: Andrew Macabe @macabemusic

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In this episode, Don Carlos and Fany Camarena share the fascinating story behind the creation of Curado, their innovative tequila infusion, and the rich family legacy in tequila production. Discover how their family has shaped tequila history and their vision for the future of tequila education.

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Carlos C. Camarena is an agronomist, third-generation tequila producer and fifth-generation agave grower from Arandas, Jalisco. As Master Distiller of Tequila Curado, Ocho, El Tesoro, and Tapatío, he is recognized for his dedication to traditional production methods and for highlighting the unique character of individual agave fields. With decades of experience in both farming and tequila production, Carlos is widely respected as one of the leading voices in premium tequila. His work continues to honor his family's legacy while helping shape the future of the category.

Fany Camarena is the oldest of 3 daughters, a fourth-generation tequila producer and sixth-generation agave farmer from Arandas, Jalisco. As Commercial and Administrative Director of "Tequilera Los Alambiques", she oversees commercial strategy, marketing, hospitality, and brand development while helping preserve the family's commitment to quality and authenticity. With more than a decade of experience in the tequila industry, Fany combines a deep respect for tradition with a passion for innovation and consumer education. She represents the next generation of the Camarena family's tequila legacy.

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Production: Tyson Ellert

Music: Andrew Macabe @macabemusic

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In part two of the conversation, Lynette Marrero dives deeper into her work as Liquid Creative Director at Aplós, unpacking the creative and technical process behind building serious non-alcoholic spirits. The discussion focuses on flavor, texture, and mouthfeel, the functional benefits of Aplós products, and how the brand creates distinctive experiences without relying on traditional alcohol stand-ins, including Lynette’s close collaboration with a flavor scientist to materialize her creative vision into the bottle. Lynette also touches on innovation within the portfolio, the importance of quality and creativity in a growing category, and how non-alcoholic spirits are becoming a natural part of modern social and hospitality environments. 

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Lynette Marrero is one of the most influential voices in modern cocktail culture. A globally respected bartender, educator, and entrepreneur, she has helped shape some of the most important bar programs in the country while mentoring and inspiring generations of hospitality professionals. She is also the co-founder of Speed Rack, the world’s first all-women bartending competition, which has raised millions of dollars for breast cancer charities while advancing equity and visibility in the industry.

Beyond the bar, Lynette is a sought-after speaker, judge, and thought leader, contributing to conversations around leadership, wellness, and the future of drinking. She currently represents Aplós, a non-alcoholic spirits brand rooted in ritual, balance, and mindful drinking — reflecting her forward-thinking approach to how people engage with beverages today.

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In this engaging conversation, Lynnette Marrero shares her journey from the world of theater to becoming a prominent figure in the beverage industry. She discusses her experiences in various bars, the evolution of cocktail culture, and the creation of Speed Rack, an initiative aimed at empowering women in bartending. The discussion also touches on the rising popularity of non-alcoholic spirits and the importance of mentorship within the industry. Lynnette emphasizes the need for inclusivity and innovation in the future of the beverage landscape.

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Lynette Marrero is one of the most influential voices in modern cocktail culture. A globally respected bartender, educator, and entrepreneur, she has helped shape some of the most important bar programs in the country while mentoring and inspiring generations of hospitality professionals. She is also the co-founder of Speed Rack, the world’s first all-women bartending competition, which has raised millions of dollars for breast cancer charities while advancing equity and visibility in the industry.

Beyond the bar, Lynette is a sought-after speaker, judge, and thought leader, contributing to conversations around leadership, wellness, and the future of drinking. She currently represents Aplós, a non-alcoholic spirits brand rooted in ritual, balance, and mindful drinking — reflecting her forward-thinking approach to how people engage with beverages today.

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In this conversation, Marc-Kwesi Farrell discusses the journey and philosophy behind Ten to One Rum, highlighting the unique blending process that creates their distinctive offerings. He elaborates on the core products, including the white and dark rums, and their appeal to both rum enthusiasts and whiskey drinkers. The discussion also covers the brand's innovative collaborations, international expansion, and future plans for product development, emphasizing the commitment to quality and craftsmanship in rum production.

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Marc Farrell is a proud Trinidadian (And proud CIC old boy), and the
Founder and CEO of Ten To One Rum. Marc’s unique combination of
deep cultural ties to Caribbean culture and intimate knowledge of the
U.S. consumer market, have propelled him to help elevate the
conversation around rum, and bring an inspired, award-winning
product to market.

Prior to launching Ten To One Rum, Marc most recently held a number
of roles at Starbucks as its youngest Vice President, leading the
eCommerce business, U.S. Retail Lobby and Beverage Innovation,
during his tenure. He was recruited to join the executive team after a
serendipitous meeting with Howard Schultz, the company’s Founder
and CEO. This followed earlier professional stints at Fidelity
Equity Partners and Bain & Co. Farrell attended MIT at age 16,
followed by Cambridge University and Harvard Business School.

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Follow Marc and his journey through the vibrant world of craft Rum @marcfarrell12 and @tentoonerum. Check out the full lineup including special editions on their website www.tentoonerum.com/our-rums

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In this conversation, Marc-Kwesi Farrell, founder of Ten To One Rum, shares his journey from Trinidad and Tobago to launching a successful Rum brand. He discusses the cultural significance of Rum in Caribbean society, the challenges faced during the pandemic, and the importance of community in building the brand. The conversation delves into the art of blending Rums from different origins and the intentionality behind the brand's name and identity. Marc emphasizes the need for education in the Rum category and the unique proposition of Ten To One as a blend of various Caribbean rums.

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Marc Farrell is a proud Trinidadian (And proud CIC old boy), and the
Founder and CEO of Ten To One Rum. Marc’s unique combination of
deep cultural ties to Caribbean culture and intimate knowledge of the
U.S. consumer market, have propelled him to help elevate the
conversation around rum, and bring an inspired, award-winning
product to market.

Prior to launching Ten To One Rum, Marc most recently held a number
of roles at Starbucks as its youngest Vice President, leading the
eCommerce business, U.S. Retail Lobby and Beverage Innovation,
during his tenure. He was recruited to join the executive team after a
serendipitous meeting with Howard Schultz, the company’s Founder
and CEO. This followed earlier professional stints at Fidelity
Equity Partners and Bain & Co. Farrell attended MIT at age 16,
followed by Cambridge University and Harvard Business School.

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Follow Marc and his journey through the vibrant world of craft Rum @marcfarrell12 and @tentoonerum. Check out the full lineup including special editions on their website www.tentoonerum.com/our-rums

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In this episode, we delve into the rich tapestry of traditional Mexican spirits, exploring their cultural significance and the efforts to preserve these cherished traditions. David Suro shares insights into the historical and cultural roots of the brands in the Suro International portfolio. Discover the stories behind:

•  Siembra Spirits
• Tequila Cascahuin
• Mezonte Mezcal
• Paranubes Ron Agricola
• Pajarote Ponches Artesanales

David shares with Pablo how these fascinating projects started and how he has dedicated his life's work to maintaining the integrity of these traditions. Join us to learn about the challenges and triumphs in keeping them alive.

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David Suro-Piñera is a native of Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico. He is the owner of one of Philadelphia’s longest tenured eateries, Tequilas Restaurant (1986), and launched Siembra Azul Tequila in 2005, which has since garnered international recognition and expanded its product line to include several tequilas and mezcales under the Siembra name. Aside from his various enterprises and charitable work, David Suro-Piñera is a husband, father of three, grandfather of three, avid photographer, and recreational pilot.

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Follow David Suro and his journey into the heart of Mexican spirits on Instagram @davidsurop and @siembraspirits. Pick up David's book: Agave Spirits: The Past, Present and Future of Mezcals and learn about David's philanthropic endeavors on their website www.tequilainterchangeproject.org

Credits

Theme: Off The Path - Macabe & West End - Macabe

Production: Tyson Ellert

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Join us for an insightful conversation with David and Dan Suro, the dynamic father-son duo behind Tequilas and La Jefa in Philadelphia. Discover their journey from the early days of Mexican cuisine in the U.S. to becoming influential figures in the agave spirits industry. David shares his passion for preserving traditional methods and the cultural significance of agave spirits, while Dan discusses the evolution of their restaurant and bar programs.

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David Suro-Piñera is a native of Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico. He is the owner of one of Philadelphia’s longest tenured eateries, Tequilas Restaurant (1986), and launched Siembra Azul Tequila in 2005, which has since garnered international recognition and expanded its product line to include several tequilas and mezcales under the Siembra name. Aside from his various enterprises and charitable work, David Suro-Piñera is a husband, father of three, grandfather of three, avid photographer, and recreational pilot.

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Dan Suro is a partner in Suro imports and co-owner of the family restaurants Tequila’s and La Jefa in Philadelphia, PA. An advocate for agave spirits and hospitality. With deep ties to Jalisco and a commitment to cultural authenticity, Dan has help curate bar programs that celebrate Mexican flavors, storytelling, and craftsmanship.

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Follow David and Dan along in their culinary and beverage adventures @davidsuro @dan_suro @tequilasphilly and @lajefaphilly. Pick up David's book: Agave Spirits: The Past, Present and Future of Mezcals and learn about David's philanthropic endeavors on their website www.tequilainterchangeproject.org

Credits

Theme: Off The Path - Macabe & West End - Macabe

Production: Tyson Ellert

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Pablo and Red discuss the intricate world of mezcal, focusing on the Jimenez Mendez family and their legacy in the mezcal industry. They explore the importance of agave quality, the production process, and the family's dynamics in decision-making. The conversation also highlights the role of Winebow in expanding the brand's reach and the future plans for community engagement and product development.

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Redford "Red " Parker has been cultivating El Buho's premium mezcal brand, embracing the heritage and artistry of the Jimenez Mendez family since 2010.   Prior to El Buho, he spent a decade at Endicott Management Company, a boutique investment and advisory firm in New York, NY.  His educational background includes a degree in Russian Language and Applied Economics from Cornell University.  Additionally, Red spends his time making music and pursuing other entrepreneurial projects.    

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Follow Red and El Buho Mezcal on Instagram @elbuhomezcal and their website www.elbuhomezcal.com

Credits

Theme: Off The Path - Macabe & West End - Macabe

Production: Tyson Ellert

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Red talks about his journey into the mezcal industry, the founding of El Búho, and the cultural significance of mezcal. Red shares insights into the team behind the brand, the challenges of developing a brand, and the deep-rooted traditions associated with mezcal production. Red shares his journey into the world of mezcal, detailing his initial experiences in Oaxaca, the cultural differences he encountered, and the relationships he built with the Jimenez Mendez family.

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Redford "Red " Parker has been cultivating El Buho's premium mezcal brand, embracing the heritage and artistry of the Jimenez Mendez family since 2010.   Prior to El Buho, he spent a decade at Endicott Management Company, a boutique investment and advisory firm in New York, NY.  His educational background includes a degree in Russian Language and Applied Economics from Cornell University.  Additionally, Red spends his time making music and pursuing other entrepreneurial projects.    

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Follow Red and El Buho Mezcal on Instagram @elbuhomezcal and their website www.elbuhomezcal.com

Credits

Theme: Off The Path - Macabe & West End - Macabe

Production: Tyson Ellert