Mara Smith, a former Chicago attorney, launched the Inspiro Tequila<\/a> brand in 2021. As a lover of tequila, Smith felt it was difficult to know which tequilas on liquor store shelves were truly additive-free, which is a growing concern amongst tequila consumers and which continues to draw controversy.<\/p>\n The additive-free tequila movement faces issues from regulations, industry pressure, and consumer confusion. The Tequila Regulatory Council (CRT) has been critical of independent certifications and has banned \u201cadditive-free\u201d language on labels, impacting smaller brands\u2019 ability to differentiate themselves. This has led to accusations of the CRT being motivated by protecting the interests of larger producers who may not disclose the use of additives.<\/p>\n To create Inspiro, Smith tapped Ana Mar\u00eda Romero Mena, one of the most respected master distillers in the tequila industry in Mexico and one of the first Official Catadores of Tequila (professional tequila expert). Mena is also the author of The Aromas of Tequila: The Art of Tasting<\/em>, a book that identifies the various sensory notes in tequila and explains how each develops. Using a proprietary production process, Mena, and Smith produce Inspiro at Tequilera Tap in Amatit\u00e1n, Jalisco, Mexico.<\/p>\n Women are an important part of this brand; Smith has placed women in every aspect of the brand, from production in Mexico to work in the U.S. market getting bottles on the shelves. Smith shares that Inspiro Tequila is committed to donating 20% of its net profits via in-kind and monetary donations.<\/p>\n The Inspiro brand has three tequila expressions: Luna Blanco, Rosa Reposado, and a Special Reserve A\u00f1ejo. Today we review the blanco and reposado offerings.<\/p>\n Both are 80 proof. NOM 1614.<\/p>\n Crafted from 100% Blue Weber Agave and rested in American oak barrels for a lunar quarter. The nose has hints of spice that weave in and out of the cooked agave aromas. Noticeable aromas of black pepper, anise, and citrus develop after a few minutes.<\/p>\n On the palate, the texture is silky and more viscous than expected. The heat level is medium, so it\u2019s an easy tequila to sip. Spices detected in the nose appear upon tasting with vanilla and cooked agave as a dominating flavor and a very light brine. The agave flavor is crisp, with citrus in the finish \u2014 both vegetal and creamy. Pepper and anise return, with vanilla and cinnamon lingering.<\/p>\n![\"Review:](\"https:\/\/www.drinkhacker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/Screenshot-2025-04-21-141015.png\")
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