Curamia is a new tequila and the brainchild of Dafna Mizrahi, a chef from Guadalajara, Mexico. The brand launched late last year in the U.S. with only a blanco expression; a reposado has since arrived. Of special note is its female-centric street cred:

Curamia is the first tequila brand 100% female-founded and made by women: 95% of the workers at the Leyros distillery, where it is made in Mexico, are women. The Leyros distillery, which focuses on craftsmanship and authenticity is recognized as the top distillery for Tequila making in Mexico. The brand is an homage to Mizrahi’s hometown and the powerful women who shaped her life and career. Curamia’s ethos is “Queen of Beauty” or “La Mujer mas Bella” in Spanish, in honor of Dafna’s grandmother, who was known by that moniker across Jalisco, renowned for her generosity and presence in the region. In celebration of the women who inspired the brand, the brand came to life through the support of its circle of influential female investors, including top C-level executives who believed in Mizrahi’s vision.

The Lowlands-born tequila is exceptionally racy on the nose — heavy with pepper and notes of charred wood, green herbs, and a hint of acetone. Extremely spicy and weighty, the tequila’s aromatics pull no punches; those looking for a “soft” experience need not apply here. More of the same on the palate: Intensely vegetal, driven by notes of rosemary and sage, then a slug of fresh asphalt. Aggressive and more than a little jarring, the punchy, charred vegetable notes here could have you thinking you’re drinking mezcal, the finish evoking barbecued meats and grilled scallions. Definitely a different animal than I was expecting.

80 proof. NOM 1489.

B / $38 / curamiatequila.com

Curamia Tequila Blanco

$38

8

Rating

8.0/10