Free Spirits Tequila is a non-alcoholic tequila alternative made with Mexican Blue Agave and modeled after the richer character of a reposado. Roasted agave, sweet oak and vanilla meet vegetal notes, pepper and subtle smoke, with a dry finish of caramel apple, oak and spice.
One thing to know before you pour: Free Spirits uses capsaicin to recreate the warming sensation normally provided by alcohol. We find that heat fairly pronounced, so this isn't necessarily a 1:1 swap. Start with a little less than your usual tequila pour and adjust from there. Find the right proportion and the capsaicin reads as warmth rather than spice, while the agave, oak and smoke settle beautifully into the cocktail.
Why We Love It
Free Spirits Tequila has enough roasted agave, oak and smoke to hold its own alongside citrus and other bold cocktail ingredients. The capsaicin also gives it something many non-alcoholic agave spirits are missing: a lingering finish and a convincing bit of bite.
The trick is balance. Rather than automatically pouring a full two ounces, we like to start smaller, taste and build from there. Get the proportions right and it makes a wonderfully convincing agave cocktail.
Try It With
Make a Margarita by shaking 1½ oz Free Spirits Tequila with 1 oz fresh lime juice and ½ oz agave syrup. Strain over fresh ice into a salt-rimmed glass. If you want more agave character and warmth, add another ¼ oz at a time until you find your sweet spot.
For an easy Paloma, combine 1½ oz Free Spirits Tequila with fresh lime and grapefruit soda over plenty of ice. Or make a Ranch Water with fresh lime and sparkling mineral water. With any of these, consider the recipe a starting point. The capsaicin can become dominant when the spirit is poured too heavily, so adjusting the amount makes a real difference.
Pair it with: Elote, birria tacos, Baja fish tacos, shrimp ceviche, carne asada, chile-lime grilled corn, loaded nachos, crispy avocado tacos, chips with guacamole, or grilled pineapple with Tajín.
