Retailers Bet on Further Growth in Agave-Based Spirits
Consumption of Tequila and other agave spirits like Mezcal jumped from 15 million 9-liter cases in 2015 to 19.8 million cases in 2019, according to the Beverage Information Group’s 2020 Liquor Handbook. Tequila alone rose 6.6% from 2018 to 2019 and was on track for a similar rise in 2020. Retailers across the country claim that tequila has seen a sizable shift to premiumization.
Mezcal, with its versatility as a cocktail base, is also seeing rapid growth comparable to that of American whiskies, according to retailers. COVID-19 also saw a rise in tequila and margarita kit sales as margaritas have proven easy to make at home with just the spirit and premade mix.
