The City of Angels recently played host to a lavish celebration as the Campari Group unveiled its latest masterpiece to the world: Mayenda Tequila.
Mayenda Tequila made its grand debut at Ka’teen, marking the beginning of a new era in luxury sipping tequila. The event, in collaboration with acclaimed photographer Pia Riverola and attendees including Nick Viall, Amanda McCants, Amirah Kassem, Annabelle Fleur, Lilliana Vazquez, Olivia Lopez, Elyanna Sanchez, Ziggy Mack Johnson, Leo Chan, Coura Fall, Eren Legend and more, was a sensory journey that transported guests straight to the heart of Mexico.
Mayenda Tequila, a brainchild of the Campari Group, is a testament to the group’s commitment to craftsmanship and quality. From the very first sip, it’s clear that this tequila is not just a beverage but an experience. The tequila, named as a tribute to Mayahuel, the Aztec goddess of agave celebrates the rich history of the revered plant. Each small batch is carefully crafted at Casa San Nicolás, in Arandas, Jalisco, to ensure a tequila of the highest quality that honors the agave. This homage to the past is evident in every drop of Mayenda, which is crafted with precision and passion. Guests at the debut event were greeted with a warm and inviting atmosphere and captivating photo exhibition by creative visionary, Pia Riverola and custom cocktails including the Elevated Margarita and Hibiscus Old Fashioned. A scent station exuding the smells of Mayenda, custom photo moments, and Mexico-inspired decor brought Jalisco to the California coast.
Sheryl Luke, Annabelle Fleur, Jesus Susunaga Acosta
The true stars of the evening were the tequila and the master behind it, Maestro Tequilero Jesus Susunaga. With an impressive career spanning over two decades, Susunaga is a true artisan when it comes to crafting tequila. He explained, “Mayenda Tequila is a labor of love. We start with the finest blue agave plants from the Jalisco region of Mexico and use traditional methods to create a tequila that is rich, complex, and perfect for sipping.” Guests had the privilege of enjoying a firsthand lesson from Susunaga himself as he guided them through the nuances of Mayenda Tequila. Each sip revealed a new layer of flavor, showcasing the tequila’s smoothness, complexity, and depth. To complement this extraordinary tequila, a carefully curated menu of custom food pairings was crafted by Chef Wes Avila. The dishes were designed to enhance the tasting experience, highlighting the flavors of the tequila while offering a delightful culinary journey. From ceviche to tacos to churros, each dish was a perfect match for Mayenda Tequila’s distinct profile.