Kemo Sabe, the luxury Western wear brand known for its high-energy retail experience and signature in-store bars, is entering the spirits market with the launch of Original Grit Tequila. The move marks a new direction for the Aspen-based retailer, which has built its reputation on handcrafted hats and boots.
“We’ve always focused on customized, luxury products, and with a bar in each location, I knew that Kemo Sabe needed to customize our favorite spirit: Tequila!” Wendy Kunkle, owner of Kemo Sabe, told WWD.
Kemo Sabe launches Original Grit Tequila.
Courtesy of Kemo Sabe
To produce Original Grit Tequila, Kemo Sabe partnered with the Partida family in El Arenal, Jalisco. The Partidas are fifth-generation tequila makers, recognized for their traditional methods and commitment to quality. The collaboration resulted in three tequila expressions: Blanco, Reposado and Añejo.
“Original Grit Tequila is a lineup of premium tequila that is all about the taste: smooth, sweet, balanced, and — preferably — drunk on the rocks,” Kunkle said.
Kemo Sabe launches Original Grit Tequila.
Courtesy of Kemo Sabe
According to the brand, the Blanco tequila features notes of ripe pear, citrus zest and a crisp agave finish, while the Reposado offers flavors of cinnamon, vanilla and candied orange peel with a warm caramel finish. The Añejo has notes of caramel, raisin, brown sugar and oak. Prices start at $99.99 and go up to $129.99.
Each tequila is made from mature Blue Weber agave, slow-cooked in brick ovens and crushed with a traditional tahona. The agave is fermented with wild yeast and distilled in copper pot stills, a process designed to maximize flavor and authenticity.
Kemo Sabe launches Original Grit Tequila.
Courtesy of Kemo Sabe
Kunkle plans to debut Original Grit Tequila officially at the Aspen Food & Wine Festival, which starts on Friday, with an exclusive event. The spirits line, however, is now available at Kemo Sabe’s Aspen and Vail locations.