My friends, thanks for joining me as we kick off another weekend via the Friday Read, your source for what’s new and what’s next when it comes to menswear, spirits and more. Last week, we talked more about rugged USA-made menswear from California-based Devium, and we’re shifting gears slightly this week, as I’m on the move.
I myself have been planning a Brooklyn apartment move — which you know if you follow me on Instagram — but my latest move of sorts is one that’s taken me out of the country, down south and in pursuit of a new adventure (and a new spirit). We’re coming to you live from Jalisco, Mexico, were I’m venturing into the agave fields to learn all about Patrón Tequila and its new Cristalino expression.
This trip is part of the many hats I wear when it comes to freelance writing, including covering all manner of gear, spirits and more at Maxim.com. In fact, you can look for a dispatch on this particular trip over at Cool Material, where I’ll be diving into the world of agave.
It’s far from my first trip to the region (how cool is that!?), which brings you through the vibrant city and culinary destination of Guadalajra. I trekked to Mexico last September with El Tesoro Tequila, and I’ve also visited the region with 1800 Tequila last spring.
But back to Patrón: More than 2,500 employees work to craft this fine tequila at Atotonilco el Alto, using brick ovens and ancient Tahona stones to cook the agave and dial in that “just-right” flavor you’ve perhaps found in your favorite margarita or cocktail.
Along the way, we’re staying at the Hacienda Patrón an exclusive VIP guest house on site. Here, the itinerary includes plenty of tequila, round after round of gourmet meals, an agave cutting demonstration, a tour of Patrón facilities and a deep dive into how they make this premium spirit. Not bad for a work trip, right?
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Of course, I’ll be outfitted with some of my favorite gear along the way, including sturdy Flint and Tinder work pants, my trusty Blundstone boots and even some tequila-themed headwear (workers in the tequila fields often wear oversized straw hats to block the sun, dirt and grime during long days in the agave fields).
Between exceptional tequila, next-level accommodations and the chance to put some of my favorite menswear and gear to the test in rugged fashion, my latest trip checks all the boxes for me — and for that, I couldn’t be more thankful!
There’s more to come on my jaunt to Mexico if you go ahead and follow me on Instagram, but for now, just now that we’re focused on matters of style with two upcoming weekend posts. Cheers to tequila and cheers to real-world adventures, folks — thanks for reading!
The Style Guide 