BLANCO- a Mexican word meaning ‘white’ is a tequila and you should have it. Its good for your health, so they say.
So, I was made to indulge in the 2025 cocktail masterclass at the World Tequila Day, and of course, with a shot on tow.
Every year on July 24, tequila lovers around the globe come together to honour one of Mexico’s greatest gifts to the world, and here in South Africa, there’s only one name that defines luxury tequila: Don Julio.
The masterclass prepared one on the dos and don’t’s, on how to consume and prepare tequila we usually take whenever we’re having a ball…
Guests, that included influencers, media and Diageo representatives, were exquisitely transported to Jalisco, not just in spirit, but through an unforgettable journey of flavour, food and scent. Upon arrival, guests were ushered into the Blanco Garden, at the Forum, Hyde Park. The venue is top class!
Talk of food, to my surprise we had a three-meal course that were accompanied with tequila pairings that brought Don Julio Reposado’s nuanced flavour profiles to life, including variants Blanco, Reposado, Anejo, Cristalino 70 and the most luxurious of them all – Don Julio 1942.
In the “Allure Room” guests were fully immersed in the brand’s rich history, deepening their appreciation for this tequila’s provenance through a sensorial experience.
“This World Tequila Day, we’re doing more than just raising a glass; we’re igniting a movement of appreciation for Mexico’s finest.
We’re actively driving education, showing consumers that Don Julio’s exquisite variants aren’t just for shots, but perfect companions for diverse meals and cherished moments of celebration. From pairing the crisp Blanco with vibrant ceviche to savouring the rich Añejo with a decadent dessert, we’re unlocking a world of enjoyment, turning every sip into a discovery,” says Head of Culture at Diageo- Ifeoma Agu.
As the vibrant Johannesburg sunset painted the sky, guests indulged in the crisp, refreshing Don Paloma, Tequila Sunrise and the much-loved Don Margarita, perfectly crafted to embody the spirit of the day.
This prelude sets an idyllic scene for the elevated food and tequila pairings that followed at “The Don’s Table” normally associated with Mafios.
Aha, there you have it- cocktail artistry!
From the sun-soaked fields of Jalisco to the vibrant bars of Johannesburg and Lagos, Don Julio has become a symbol of elegance, craftsmanship, and celebration.
Talk of celebration, after an awesome three-meal course, we were ushered into a musical experience that was billed by SA’s on rotation -DJ Tukzen, who kept guests on their toes until late.
So, this what I prepared during the day- to Toast with the “Don Paloma” tocelebrate World Tequila Day:
Ingredients
- 50ml Don Julio Blanco
- 60ml fresh ruby grapefruit juice
- 15ml lime juice
- 15ml agave syrup
- Top with soda water
- Pinch of sea salt
- Grapefruit wedge & rosemary sprig to garnish
Image SLM (The ‘allure Room’ at the World Tequila Day, held at The Forum- Hyde Park, last Saturday).
