National Tequila Day’s designated date falls on Saturday, July 24th this year, so plan accordingly. While deciding where to celebrate and which cocktails to mix up, put Milagro Tequila and our newest brand ambassador, Luis Lopez, on your radar! A Los Angeles native with Guatemalan roots, Luis has spent 11 years in the hospitality and spirits industry, and is now an “open book of cocktails.”
Luis Lopez – Milagro Tequila West Coast Brand Ambassador
Luis Lopez brings 11 years of hospitality and nightlife experience and electric energy to his role as Milagro’s Brand Ambassador. Having worked across several roles within the food and beverage industry from the back of the house to behind-the-bar, Luis discovered his passion for the spirits industry early on in his career.
While his love affair with the industry began at the iconic Piano Bar in Hollywood, he’s also worked at several notable bars in and around Los Angeles over the course of his career, including Harvard & Stone, La Descarga, Black Market Liquor Bar, White Horse Lounge, and No Vacancy. Luis quickly began making a name for himself amongst bar-goers for his elevated mixology skills, spirits knowledge, and upbeat personality.
Prior to his current role, Luis served as a West Coast On-Premise Specialist for William Grant & Sons. As an On-Premise Specialist, he was tasked with training and educating employees at bars about the William Grant & Sons portfolio. Most recently, he worked as an independent bar consultant, assisting local businesses in reaching their maximum potential.
Born and raised in Los Angeles with Guatemalan roots, Luis’ life experiences have allowed him to develop a unique perspective on Latin culture. He prides himself on his knowledge of the region’s food and cocktails, and his list of accolades includes having won “Best Margarita” at a festival in Hollywood, where he competed with over 40 entrants.
Luis currently resides in West Hollywood, California. When he’s not mixing cocktails, he can be found working out, riding one of his three motorcycles around town, and traveling with a hatbox in tow to ensure he’s never without his signature accessory. To keep up with Luis and see what cocktail he’s shaking next, follow him on Instagram @chicharronesconlimon.
Here’s our roundup of a few cocktails that you’ll be sure to enjoy on National Tequila Day and beyond.
The Freshest Margarita
Ingredients
- 2 Parts Milagro Silver
- ¾ Part Agave Nectar*
- 1 Part Fresh Lime Juice
Preparation: Pour all ingredients into a Boston shaker, shake and strain over ice in a rocks glass. Garnish with a lime wheel.
*Or Substitute with Simple Syrup.
Mayan Mule
Ingredients
- 2 Parts Milagro Reposado
- ½ Part Fresh Lime Juice
- 2 Dashes Angostura Bitters
- 3 Parts Ginger Beer
- Lime Wheel
- Mint Sprig
Preparation: Place 2-3 ice cubes in a Collins glass. Add freshly squeezed lime juice, Milagro Reposado, ginger beer, and bitters. Garnish with a mint sprig and a lime wheel.
Veracruzana
Ingredients
- 2 Parts Milagro Reposado
- ¾ Part Agave Nectar*
- 1 Part Fresh Lime Juice
- 4 Chunks Pineapple
- 2 Basil Leaves
Preparation: Muddle pineapple and basil leaves in a Boston shaker. Add remaining ingredients and shake vigorously with ice. Strain into a rocks glass with fresh ice. Garnish with pineapple and basil.
*Or Substitute with Simple Syrup.