India has a new contender in the premium agave spirit scene—Pistola, a 100% aged agave spirit that promises smoothness and flavor, right from the heart of Goa. Produced by Passcode Hospitality, Pistola stands tall as one of the very few Indian-made agave spirits, joining the ranks of Desmondji’s famed agave line. This smooth and powerful spirit has the potential to redefine India’s tequila scene, providing a local alternative to the imported favorites.
The Emergence of Agave Spirits in India
- What is Tequila? Tequila is traditionally a region-specific name for a distilled beverage made from the Blue Agave plant, native to Mexico. However, thanks to the abundance of agave plants across India’s Deccan Plateau, agave spirits are becoming more accessible locally. The founders of Pistola have tapped into this growing trend, bringing a premium agave experience to Indian consumers.
- Why Can’t It Be Called Tequila? Due to strict geographical indication (GI) regulations, only spirits made in specific regions of Mexico can be called tequila. As a result, Pistola is marketed as an agave spirit, although its production process mirrors that of tequila. Despite this, Pistola delivers the same essence and experience, using India’s rich agave resources.
Pistola: Made in India, Crafted with Tradition
Pistola’s story begins with Rakshay Dhariwal, a visionary in India’s F&B industry, who saw a growing demand for premium tequila and mezcal. Partnering with Desmond Nazareth, India’s first agave spirit maker, Dhariwal set up a distillation facility in Andhra Pradesh’s Chittoor region to process the agave, before transferring it to Goa for aging and bottling.
What Makes Pistola Stand Out?
- Local Craftsmanship, Global Inspiration
Pistola is more than just a spirit. It’s a symbol of India’s potential in producing high-quality, globally competitive products. Drawing inspiration from Mexican tequila, Pistola brings a taste of that tradition, while infusing it with Indian craftsmanship. - Three Distinct Variants
Pistola will eventually be available in three variants:- Reposado: Aged for smoothness with hints of vanilla, caramel, and butterscotch, it carries mild peppery notes.
- Smoky Agave: This variant introduces notes of white pepper, grass, and honey, perfect for those seeking a bolder flavor.
- Añejo: Featuring complex flavors of cooked agave, cocoa, and butter, this promises a premium sipping experience.
The Growing Agave Trend in India
According to Dhariwal, agave-based spirits such as mezcal and tequila are the next big wave in India’s drinking culture. While gin continues to hold sway, tequila is poised to make a strong resurgence, backed by growing awareness and increasing local production. Globally, celebrities like The Rock, George Clooney, and Kendall Jenner have also invested in tequila, signaling the spirit’s rising popularity.
Taste and Versatility
Pistola’s reposado variant has already garnered attention for its creamy texture with a subtle balance of vanilla, caramel, and peppery spice. Perfect for alfresco drinking, it’s smooth enough to enjoy on a humid evening. Agave spirits are ideal for pairing with Indian cuisine, thanks to the natural sweetness of agave, which complements the spices often used in Indian dishes.
Where Can You Find Pistola?
Currently available in Goa, Pistola will soon expand to other regions, offering a delightful drinking experience to those eager to explore locally made premium spirits. You can expect to find Pistola in upscale bars, restaurants, and select retail stores.
Conclusion
Pistola is set to carve out its place in India’s premium spirit market. With its bold flavors, smoothness, and the authenticity of aged agave, it’s more than just a drink—it’s an experience. Whether you’re a seasoned tequila lover or new to the world of agave spirits, Pistola promises to be your go-to for any occasion. So next time you’re in Goa, or simply looking to try something new, take a shot at Pistola—India’s smoothest agave spirit!