Join us for the Agave Heritage Festival!!

Tucson, Culinary Capital And City Of Gastronomy, Celebrates 250 Years...

Schedule of Events:

April 10, 2025

8:00 am - 11:00 am: Agave Planting at Mission Garden

Be part of history and the future! Join us at Mission Garden to plant agave in the traditional Hohokam style, inspired by ancient plantings on Tumamoc Hill. These agave plants will provide food for bat pollinators and may even become part of a future festival's roasting pit.

No experience is needed, and families are encouraged to join! We'll provide all tools and gloves-just bring your enthusiasm, long pants, and a hat for sun protection.

2:00 pm - 3:00 pm: Howard Scott Gentry Lecture

The Howard Scott Gentry Award was established in 2017 by Dr. Gary Nabhan and the Agave Heritage Festival to recognize leaders in binational collaborative research on agave conservation and use.

In 2025 we recognize Diana Pinzón and Faby Torres Monfils for their leadership and uncompromising commitment to core values of the cultural and ecological connections and foundations that support mezcal production.

6:00 pm - 8:00 pm: Guided Tasting at Tap and Bottle North: Featuring La Gritona and Bara-Cara

Join us at Tap and Bottle North with La Gritona Tequila Reposado and Bara-Cara Tequila Blanco. La Gritona Reposado and Bara-Cara Blanco are distilled by Melly Barajas and her staff of women at her distillery in Valle De Guadalupe, Jalisco.

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5:00 pm - 11:00 pm: Noche de Mezcal

Under the spell of a beautiful Spring Tucson night, explore the best downtown has to offer. Begin your journey with an intimate mezcal toast, then pick your own adventure among the 12 participating bars and restaurants. Explore mezcal's smoky mystique with expertly crafted cocktails, tantalizing bites, and the story of agave in every sip. Your ticket includes a veladora, lanyard, and access to a curated collection of mezcal tastings and pairings at each decadent stop.

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7:00 pm - 9:00 pm: Educational Tasting at Bar Crisol: Featuring Los Cantiles 1905

Immerse yourself in the world of agave excellence with an exclusive educational tasting experience featuring Los Cantiles 1905 Spirits at Bar Crisol.

Guided by renowned experts Omhar and Carlos Acuña, this refined tasting journey explores the intricate flavors, distinct terroir, and centuries-old techniques that define Northern Spirits. Each sip is a testament to heritage, sustainability, and the artistry of agave distillation along the borderlands.

Join us for an evening where tradition meets innovation and let the spirit of agave tell its story.

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9:00 am - 11:00 pm: Bar Takeover - Bar Crisol X Madre

Two of the best mezcal bars unite for an unforgettable night in Tucson! LA's Madre takes over Bar Crisol, showcasing the bold flavors of Los Cantiles 1905, a renowned bacanora brand. Sip on expertly crafted agave cocktails, enjoy neat pours, and experience the rich tradition of bacanora in this one-night-only celebration of mezcal culture and borderland heritage.

1:15 pm - 2:00 pm: Agave - The Tree of Wonders

Known as "The Tree of Wonders", the agave has been celebrated in native cultures for centuries throughout the American Southwest and Mexico. That tradition continues today in Tucson's Agave Heritage Festival, April 10th- 13th, 2025. Narrated by Arizona Master Naturalist and SAGU VIP Dan Collins, The Amazing Agave presentation is an intriguing overview of "all things agave".

April 11, 2025

9:00 am - 6:00 pm: Agave Renaissance Summit

The 2025 Summit will be a day of action focused on bringing the vision of the City of Century plants to reality.
Tucson and Southern Arizona can be the Region of Century Plants: uniting communities across borders to foster agave sustainability, cultural heritage, and economic resilience for future generations.

Morning Sessions

Climate Smart Heritage Foods
Market Expansion of Bacanora into the US
Arts and Storytelling

Afternoon Sessions

Business, Branding, Sense of Place with Agave as the Anchor
Bat Friendly and Beyond, creating a label for agave sustainability in the borderlands
Open for topic established day of

6:00 pm - 9:00 pm: Agave Heritage Dinner

Continuing the culinary excellence of the Agave Heritage Festival, this extraordinary five-course dining experience brings together the region's finest flavors at Maynards Kitchen and Bottle Shop.

Led by Maynards' new Executive Chef, Roderick LeDesma, this thoughtfully crafted menu highlights the rich bounty of the Sonoran Desert, blending traditional ingredients with modern, innovative techniques. Each course is expertly paired with La Gritona Reposado Tequila-a distinguished, female- and family-owned distillery led by Melly Barajas-featuring both neat pours and artful cocktails that enhance the flavors of each dish.

This exclusive dining event is presented in collaboration with the Center for Regional Food Studies and the Southwest Center, celebrating the deep-rooted cultural and culinary heritage of the borderlands.

Join us for an unforgettable evening where food, tequila, and tradition come together in an immersive celebration of agave and regional gastronomy.

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9:00 pm: Bar Takeover - Hotel Congress Lobby Bar X Little Rituals

Step into an evening of innovative agave cocktails as Aaron DeFeo, owner of Little Rituals and founder of Tequila Fest (est. 2008), returns to Hotel Congress-where it all began. A Tucson native and James Beard Award semi-finalist, Aaron brings his signature creativity to this one-night-only bar takeover, featuring masterfully crafted cocktails with Cambio Tequila, Del Maguey, and Lost Explorer.

Don't miss this legendary homecoming, where bold flavors, agave artistry, and Tucson's rich cocktail culture take center stage.

Raise a glass to the roots of the Agave Heritage Festival and experience a night of boundary-pushing mixology in the heart of Tucson.

6:00 pm - 8:00 pm: Educational Tasting at Bar Crisol: Featuring NETA

Join us for an intimate Guided Tasting at Bar Crisol, featuring the exceptional mezcals of NETA. This exclusive event invites guests to explore the rich traditions and terroir-driven expressions of agave spirits from the southern valleys of Oaxaca.

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6:00 pm - 7:00 pm: Guided Tasting at Tap and Bottle Downtown: Sip and Switch with Tequila Ocho

Join us at Tap and Bottle Downtown for an interactive tequila tasting. You'll start at a table with a small group and sip on tequila while discussing unique topics guided by a Tequila Ocho Ambassador. After a set amount of time, you'll switch tables, dive into a new tequila expression, and engage in fresh discussions with a new group. Whether you're a tequila aficionado or just starting your agave journey, this experience offers a perfect mix of education, connection and great spirits.

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7:30 pm - 8:30 pm: Guided Tasting at Tap and Bottle Downtown: Sip and Switch with Tequila Ocho

Join us at Tap and Bottle Downtown for an interactive tequila tasting. You'll start at a table with a small group and sip on tequila while discussing unique topics guided by a Tequila Ocho Ambassador. After a set amount of time, you'll switch tables, dive into a new tequila expression, and engage in fresh discussions with a new group. Whether you're a tequila aficionado or just starting your agave journey, this experience offers a perfect mix of education, connection and great spirits.

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6:00 pm - 8:00 pm: Del Maguey Mezcal Tasting at Tough Luck Club

Join Nicolette Diodati for an immersive tasting experience celebrating Del Maguey Single Village Mezcal, the pioneering brand that coined the phrase "liquid art." Hand-crafted by individual Zapotec and Mixtec farmer-families, Del Maguey introduced the world to artisanal mezcal in 1995, showcasing the deep cultural heritage and distinct terroirs of Oaxaca and Puebla. Each expression embodies a "taste of place," shaped by the traditions of ancestral villages and the dedication of the mezcaleros who preserve these time-honored methods.

This guided tasting will feature four 1-ounce pours, each representing a different village and production style, allowing guests to explore the nuanced flavors, rich history, and signature sweet, smoky character that define Del Maguey's award-winning spirits.

To complement the mezcal, three thoughtfully paired small bites will be served, enhancing the depth and complexity of each pour:

Citrus and Cucumber Medley: Orange, grapefruit, cucumber, apple, arugula, olive oil, and chili-lime salt

Frico Bites: Ricotta, chili honey, Fresno chili, orange zest, and Maldon salt

Grilled Flatbread: Pulled pork, cilantro, and pickled red onion

This experience is more than a tasting-it's a deep dive into the artistry, heritage, and unparalleled craftsmanship that define Del Maguey. Whether you're a mezcal aficionado or new to the spirit, this event offers a rare opportunity to savor the stories, flavors, and traditions that make Del Maguey truly exceptional.

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6:00 pm - 9:00 pm: Guided Mezcal Tasting at Sonora Moonshine

Delve into the world of artisanal mezcal with an expert-led guided tasting featuring The Lost Explorer Mezcal, presented by Sonora Moonshine as part of the Agave Heritage Festival. This intimate experience will take you beyond the glass, exploring mezcal's deep cultural significance, traditional production techniques, and the nuances that make each expression unique.

Featured Expressions and Pairings:

Espadin - The most widely cultivated mezcal agave, known for its balance of smoke, fruit, and earth. Paired with citrus and sal de gusano to enhance its complexity.
Tobala - A wild, high-altitude agave, prized for its floral and herbal notes with a rich, velvety texture. Paired with dark chocolate and sea salt to complement its depth.
Salmiana - A lesser-known agave with bold minerality and bright vegetal notes, offering a crisp, vibrant profile. Paired with manzanilla olives to highlight its briny, green character.

Guided by a mezcal expert, guests will explore the ancestral and artisanal production methods that give mezcal its signature character-from underground pit roasting and slow fermentation to small-batch copper still distillation. Learn how regional factors such as altitude, soil composition, and agave species influence each sip, creating a tasting experience that is both educational and sensory-driven.

Your Ticket Includes:

A guided tasting of three premium mezcal expressions
Curated pairings designed to accentuate mezcal's diverse flavor profiles
In-depth insights into mezcal's history, production, and regional variations

With only 40 spots available, this exclusive tasting offers a rare opportunity to explore mezcal through an informed, hands-on experience in an intimate setting.

Secure Your Spot Today! Immerse yourself in the craft, culture, and complexity of mezcal-one sip at a time.

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12:00 pm - 2:00 pm: Book Signing Event: Tequila Wars: José Cuervo and the Bloody Struggle for the Spirit of Mexico

Join us for an exclusive book signing event with acclaimed author Ted Genoways as he presents his latest work, Tequila Wars: José Cuervo and the Bloody Struggle for the Spirit of Mexico. This gripping historical account uncovers the untold story of how tequila became a global icon, tracing the Cuervo family's rise amid fierce rivalries, political upheaval, and battles for control over Mexico's most celebrated spirit.

Genoways, an award-winning journalist and historian, is known for his compelling narratives that explore the intersections of history, industry, and power. His latest book offers a riveting dive into the world of tequila, revealing the clandestine deals, wartime survival tactics, and international trade disputes that shaped the industry as we know it today.

Meet the author, get your copy signed, and immerse yourself in the fascinating history of tequila at this special event during the Agave Heritage Festival. Don't miss this opportunity to connect with one of the leading voices in historical and cultural storytelling!

6:00 pm - 8:00 pm: Cambio Tequila Tasting at Tabu

Join us at Tabu for a guided tasting featuring Cambio Tequila, a standout in artisanal craftsmanship. Enjoy three one-ounce pours, each paired with thoughtfully crafted lite bites from the Tabu culinary team. Industry experts will walk you through the flavors, process, and heritage behind Cambio Tequila, all in the bold, modern atmosphere of one of Downtown Tucson's most exciting dining destinations.

Savor, sip, and celebrate the spirit of tequila in a way that's both refined and unforgettable. Limited seats available-reserve your place today!

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April 12, 2025

7:00 pm - 10:00 pm: Agave Fiesta Grande Tasting

Step into the epicenter of Tucson's agave culture at Agave Fiesta, the event that first ignited the Agave Heritage Festival in 2008 and continues to be a cornerstone of the celebration. This immersive experience brings together over 50 artisanal and ancestral agave spirits, crafted by master distillers who honor time-honored traditions while shaping the future of agave production.

Taste the legacy. From mezcal and tequila to bacanora and sotol, each sip tells a story of heritage, sustainability, and craftsmanship-woven together by the hands of those who have preserved this ancient spirit for generations. Engage with industry experts as they share insights on agave culture, terroir, distillation techniques, and the historical significance of these revered spirits.

Beyond the spirits, Agave Fiesta is a vibrant sensory experience. Enjoy expertly crafted agave cocktails, soak in the energy of live music, and indulge in a thoughtfully curated light bites from Borderlands Brewing, where regional flavors meet agave-inspired pairings.

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10:00 am - 11:30 am: Agave Lifetime Career Award Lecture

The N-Gen and Agave Heritage Festival Lifetime Career Award honors individuals whose work deepens our understanding of agave's cultural, ecological, and social significance. In 2025, we honor renwoned agave experts Paul and Suzy Fish will share their knowledge on how centuries old technology enhanced the production of agave in fields on dry basin slopes in southern Arizona.

Their hands-on lecture will open your eyes to the cultural landscape all around us, changing the way you see Tucson and the greater Southwest. Do not miss this incredible opportunity to learn from the best.

11:30 am - 5:30 pm: Exploring Agave: Talks and Tastings

Join us for an engaging and thought-provoking panels, hands-on tastings, and inspiring discussions on how agave continues to shape culture and industry.

This engaging series brings together experts, producers, and creatives to discuss innovative agave growing practices, cross-border collaborations, and the evolving role of agave in sustainability and resilience.

9:00 pm - 11:00 pm: Bar Takeover - Sonoran Moonshine X Barcoa

Phoenix's premier agave bar, Barcoa, takes over Sonoran Moonshine for a one-night-only celebration of agave culture, featuring the exceptional flavors of Mezcal Vago and Tequila Ocho. Known for its dedication to mezcal, bacanora, and sotol, Barcoa brings its signature craft and deep appreciation for agave spirits to Tucson, offering an exclusive lineup of expertly crafted cocktails and neat pours showcasing these iconic brands.

Join us as Phoenix meets Tucson in this agave-fueled takeover-where every pour tells a story of heritage, craftsmanship, and innovation.

12:00 pm - 1:00 pm: Guided Mezcal and Chocolate Pairing

Join us for an unforgettable Agave Heritage Festival guided tasting experience, featuring the exquisite craftsmanship of Esfuerzo Mezcal paired with Ember's Chocolate.

Each ticket includes:

5 - .75 oz pours of Esfuerzo Mezcal
5 - expertly curated chocolate pairings from Ember's Chocolate
1 - complimentary copita to take home

After the event, guests will have the opportunity to purchase Esfuerzo Mezcal to continue their tasting journey.

Secure your spot for this unique mezcal and chocolate pairing experience-space is limited!

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2:00 pm - 3:00 pm: Guided Mezcal and Chocolate Pairing

Join us for an unforgettable Agave Heritage Festival guided tasting experience, featuring the exquisite craftsmanship of Esfuerzo Mezcal paired with Ember's Chocolate.

Each ticket includes:

5 -.75 oz pours of Esfuerzo Mezcal
5 - expertly curated chocolate pairings from Ember's Chocolate
1 - complimentary copita to take home

After the event, guests will have the opportunity to purchase Esfuerzo Mezcal to continue their tasting journey.

Secure your spot for this unique mezcal and chocolate pairing experience-space is limited!

Click here to Buy Tickets

5:00 pm - 7:00 pm: Educational Tasting at Bar Crisol: Featuring Northern Mexico Spirits

Join us for an intimate Guided Tasting at Bar Crisol, highlighting the distinctive spirits of Northern Mexico. This exclusive event offers guests a rare opportunity to explore the bold flavors and deep-rooted traditions of sotol, bacanora, and other regional agave and desert spirits. Led by industry experts, the tasting will delve into the unique production methods and terroir that shape these extraordinary expressions from the rugged landscapes of Sonora, Chihuahua, and beyond.

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5:00 pm - 6:30 pm: Mezcal Vago Guided Tasting at Batch

Experience the bold, untamed spirit of Mezcal Vago at this exclusive Agave Heritage Festival guided tasting at Batch. With limited seating, this intimate event offers a rare opportunity to explore the diverse expressions of Mezcal Vago, including Elote, Espadin, and more. Known for their commitment to transparency and tradition, Mezcal Vago sources its small-batch, handcrafted mezcals directly from master mezcaleros in Oaxaca, preserving the rich heritage and terroir of each region.

Join us as we delve into the flavors, techniques, and stories behind these exceptional spirits, gaining a deeper appreciation for the artistry and craftsmanship that define Mezcal Vago.

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April 13, 2025

9:00 am - 12:00 pm: Borderlands Restoration Network Tour and Plant Sale

Discover the beauty of Patagonia, Arizona, while exploring groundbreaking conservation efforts with Borderlands Restoration Network and Bat Conservation International. Enjoy a guided tour of restoration sites and a native plant sale, supporting agave and nectar-feeding bat conservation while promoting sustainability and biodiversity

8:00 am: Guided Tumamoc Hill Hiking Tour

Explore the slopes of Tumamoc Hill on a guided hike, enjoying stunning Sonoran Desert views while discovering how agave has played a vital role in the region's past and present.

This tour offers insights into the ecology, cultural history, and desert adaptations that have shaped this unique landscape.

5:00 pm: Tequila Ocho and Mezcal Vago Heritage Dinner

The Culinary Team of BATA and their award-winning restaurant partner with the internationally renowned Tequila Ocho and Mezcal Vago for a culinary experience worthy of the last Agave Heritage Festival event of 2024. This experience is offered the entire evening as a family-style tasting menu that includes a choice of a mezcal or tequila paired cocktail and two other spirit neat pour pairings.  Plan to meet Chris Simmons, Tyler Fenton, Andres Cruz, and a host of other experts helping to guide you along this culinary journey. The first 72 guests receive a commemorative Tequila Ocho tasting flute to help you continue your Ocho journey while at home!"

Date:
April 10 - 13, 2025

Location:
Various Venues in Tucson, AZ

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