The debate surrounding the use of additives in agave spirits has been ongoing for quite some time. While it is legal for additives to be used in the tequila industry, brands are not required to disclose whether or not their products contain them. This lack of transparency has left consumers questioning the authenticity of their favorite spirits. Fortunately, there is now an organization dedicated to addressing this issue – the Additive Free Alliance (AFA).
Founded by Grover and Scarlet Sanschagrin, the AFA was established as a response to the growing demand for third-party verification of additive-free tequila. Initially part of their website and app, the AFA has since evolved into an independent entity with a broader mission that extends beyond just tequila. The Alliance now includes other agave-related spirits such as raicilla, mezcal, and agave syrups, with more products expected to join in the future.
One notable product that has joined the AFA is the newly released Weber Ranch 1902 Vodka. This vodka is unique in that it is made entirely from Blue Weber agave grown in Jalisco, Mexico. The agave is harvested and distilled in Jalisco before being transported to Muenster, Texas, where it undergoes a second distillation in proprietary copper pot and column stills. The end result is a clear spirit that maintains the essence of the agave plant while remaining completely additive-free.
Developed by the team behind Patrón Tequila, including master distiller Antonio Rodriguez, Weber Ranch Vodka offers a new take on traditional vodka. Rodriguez explains that by utilizing agave, they were able to infuse subtle flavor notes of tropical fruit and citrus into the spirit, making it versatile for both classic vodka cocktails and agave-based drinks like ranch water or paloma.
By joining the AFA, Weber Ranch Vodka became not only the first agave-based vodka on the market but also one of the founding members of the Alliance. Currently, the AFA boasts over 100 brands, nearly 400 products, 125 retail partners, and 42 distilleries. Brands that choose to participate in the program must undergo independent testing to confirm the absence of additives such as artificial sweeteners, sugar, and glycerin.
Participating brands cover the costs of lab testing and contribute a nominal fee after the first year to aid with operational expenses. Brands that successfully pass the verification process are free to display the AFA logo on their bottles. Grover Sanschagrin emphasizes that the primary goal of the AFA is to promote transparency in labeling and educate consumers about the products they are purchasing.
Despite the noble intentions of the AFA, the program has faced pushback from major producers within the industry. False allegations made by regulatory entities like the Consejo Regulador del Tequila have further complicated the situation for the Alliance. Grover Sanschagrin remains optimistic but acknowledges the challenges of operating in a complex regulatory environment.
One of the key advantages of the expanded AFA is the shift towards a lab-based verification process, eliminating the need for in-person distillery visits. This change has allowed brands like Nosotros Tequila to participate in the program, previously restricted due to contractual privacy issues with their distillery. The AFA stresses that they are not against brands that use additives but seek to provide a platform for those committed to transparency.
The popularity of the Additive Free Alliance is a testament to the consumer demand for transparency and authenticity in agave spirits. By championing additive-free practices and promoting honest labeling, the AFA is paving the way for a more accountable and consumer-focused industry. As the Alliance continues to grow, it is clear that their impact will extend far beyond just tequila, reshaping the way we perceive and enjoy agave-based products.
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