Tequila deserves its own holiday, and you deserve to celebrate it. Here’s where to enjoy the beloved Mexican spirit in D.C.
Since the Aztecs first began fermenting agave juice centuries ago, tequila has been an important part of Mexican culture. Now a staple on every home bar and cocktail list, tequila has cemented itself as one of the most popular spirits on the market—with its own national holiday celebrated on July 24.
So, what better way to celebrate than indulging in Clase Azul Mexico’s tequilas at the freshest D.C. spots? From the distinctive flavors to the exquisitely detailed decanters, each of Clase Azul Mexico’s tequilas tells a remarkable story of the region where it’s crafted. The iconic brand combines tradition and luxury to produce spirits deeply inspired by the culture, craftsmanship and vitality of Mexico.
Decanters from left to right: Clase Azul Tequila Plata, Tequila Reposado, Tequila Añejo, Tequila Gold, Tequila Ultra
Clase Azul offers five different tequilas. The brand’s artisanal signature, Tequila Reposado, is a smooth tequila masterfully aged for eight months in American whiskey casks, while the unaged Plata captures the nuanced and fresh flavor of the agave.
The Gold variety takes inspiration from Mexican sunsets, combining Clase Azul Tequila Plata, a special reposado tequila matured in French oak casks, and an extra añejo finished in sherry casks. Its gorgeous decanter features a ceramic base adorned by two 24-karat gold ribbons painted by hand. The character of the Anejo results from a magnificent journey of more than two years in American whiskey casks.
And finally, there’s the Tequila Ultra—crafted for true connoisseurs, this spirit is the result of an extended aging period of five years in American whiskey and sherry casks and comes in a decanter adorned with platinum, silver and 24-karat gold.
Here’s where you can savor Clase Azul’s creations in Washington, D.C.
Left: The Gold Fashioned Cocktail is crafted with Clase Azul Tequila Gold, a hint of demerara, orange bitters, edible 23-carat gold flakes and garnished with a dehydrated orange slice. (Photo Credit: Cut Above); Right: Seven Reasons’ Majestic Agave cocktail is made with Clase Azul Tequila Reposado, a splash of Oloroso sherry, agave nectar, huitlacoche and guava, and finished with a dash of aromatic bitters and a twist of citrus. (Photo Credit: Seven Reasons)
CUT Above in The Rosewood
CUT Above by Wolfgang Puck sits atop the Rosewood Hotel, where sweeping views of the capital’s skyline invite visitors to lounge, sip and savor. Featuring plush furniture, a menu of elevated bar fare and a variety of refreshing cocktails, this rooftop bar is an idyllic spot to ring in Tequila Day al fresco. Celebrate the occasion with the Gold Fashioned Cocktail, crafted with Clase Azul Tequila Gold, a hint of demerara, orange bitters, edible 23-carat gold flakes and garnished with a dehydrated orange slice.
1050 31st St. NW
202.617.2400
Seven Reasons
With DJ sets every Friday and Saturday, this lively Latin American fine dining spot combines upscale, regionally inspired cuisine with an exciting environment. Beverage Director of the Seven Reasons Group Carlos Boada has crafted a cocktail that is as rich in history as it is in flavor, designed to honor the spirit of National Tequila Day. This creation, aptly named Majestic Agave, is a celebration of Latin heritage, a tribute to the lush landscapes of Mexico and a nod to the sophisticated palate of the modern connoisseur. Made with Clase Azul Tequila Reposado, a splash of Oloroso sherry, agave nectar, huitlacoche and guava, and finished with a dash of aromatic bitters and a twist of citrus, Majestic Agave pairs beautifully with any of Seven Reasons’ contemporary dishes.
931 H St. NW
202.417.8563
Clase Azul Tequila Gold comes in an ombre decanter inspired by the sunset.
Oyamel Cocina Mexicana
Oyamel’s iconic celebrity chef combines the regional diversity of Mexico with the vibrance of Mexico City, making this restaurant a perfect place to celebrate National Tequila Day with Clase Azul alongside innovative dishes. Start the meal out with a pour of Clase Azul tequila, on the rocks or in a cocktail, accompanied by one of Oyamel’s signature ceviches and fresh, made-to-order guacamole before indulging in a delectable meat or seafood dish, such as the grilled trout marinated in a guajillo, ancho and pasilla negra salsa.
401 7th St. NW
202.628.1005
Vera Cocina
Serving up a fusion of Lebanese Mexican cuisine, Vera Cocina offers a breezy, sun-soaked setting to dine on its creative dishes. Celebrate National Tequila Day by sipping on a pour of Clase Azul tequila while indulging in inventive bites like fattoush tostadas, lamb birria and kous relléno—bonus points if you end the meal with the elote and mole dessert, a delicious combination of chocolate, mole and corn.
2002 Fenwick St. SE
El Presidente
Located inside D.C.’s newly developed Signal House and adorned with neo-retro Mexican decor, El Presidente features a contemporary twist on Mexican heirloom ingredients that pair beautifully with any of Clase Azul’s tequilas. Check out the festive eatery’s raw bar, guacamole with king crab and a la carte tacos, or go family style with sharable plates like the tomahawk ribeye or whole striped sea bass.
1255 Union St. NE
202.318.4820
For a last-minute National Tequila Day excursion, head to Los Cabos Mexico for Clase Azul La Terraza, Los Cabos. The luxury house's boutique, restaurant and experiential space offers culture seekers unique tastings, like A Taste of Culture or the just announced Clase Azul Cosmos where guests can create a customized decanter using their essence and energy.
Photography by:
