The first non-alcoholic tequila: ALMAVE by Lewis Hamilton!
Seven-time Formula 1 champion and entrepreneur Lewis Hamilton, together with agave expert and Casa Lumbre co-founder and Master Distiller Iván Saldaña, unveiled Almave - the world's first non-alcoholic blue agave spirit.
The proof is in the craft
Adapting the time-honoured traditions of tequila production, Almave is the first premium blue agave soft drink produced in Jalisco, Mexico, that does not compromise on taste or quality. Thanks to Iván Saldaña's expertise and Lewis Hamilton's passion for greatness, tradition and innovation are combined to create a revolutionary product. The result? A blue agave drink from the highlands of Jalisco expressed without alcohol. First, the agave piñas from Almave are harvested, brewed and crushed. Then, instead of fermenting, it is distilled several times to concentrate it and capture the complexity, subtle aromas and flavours of real tequila. True to the soil, true to the plant, true to our decades of tequila-making experience. This is Almave. The soul of the blue agave - beyond the known.
Word from the chief distiller
"Lewis has always inspired me. When he called me looking for an authentic non-alcoholic spirit, I was up for the challenge. I have spent over 20 years studying the science of the agave plant and have created some of the finest tequilas and mezcals in the world. I knew the only way to bring his vision for Almave to life was to develop a process rooted in the authentic raw materials, processes and traditions of Jalisco.
We had to be innovative - adapting authentic Mexican methods that honor the craft and highlight the character and uniqueness of the blue agave plant. Almave is made using a method that puts the flavor of the agave at the center of the production process. Our unique process allows us to preserve the traditional method of distillation and use agave. We are very proud of the new level of authenticity we have been able to bring to both distillers and non-distillers alike."
Dr. Iván Saldaña Oyarzábal, Master Distiller
Seven-time Formula 1 champion and entrepreneur Lewis Hamilton, together with agave expert and Casa Lumbre co-founder and Master Distiller Iván Saldaña, unveiled Almave - the world's first non-alcoholic blue agave spirit. The team announced two versions, which were officially launched on October 26, 2023: Almave Ámbar is for sipping and Almave Blanco is for blending. Founded on innovation and an unwavering commitment to authenticity and quality, Almave represents a shared vision and an unrivalled dedication to creating a truly unique and exceptional product.
Although tequila was Lewis Hamilton's favourite drink, he wanted an alternative that would allow him to live a busy life without restrictions. He quickly realized there was a gap in the market and joined forces with best-in-class Mexican spirits innovator, Casa Lumbre, to create an authentic product that adheres to and respects the traditional process and craftsmanship of tequila in a non-alcoholic form.
Almave is the only non-alcoholic product to use the coveted blue agave. Like tequila, Almave is made from the same ingredients in the same part of Mexico, but omitting the fermentation process that turns the liquid into alcohol. Almave is therefore not described as tequila (a protected designation in Mexico), but as a blue agave spirit that gives consumers the opportunity to enjoy the fresh and distinctive flavour and character of tequila without the alcohol. Almave is perfect for sipping or mixing into your favorite cocktail.
Lewis Hamilton is excited to embark on this journey with Casa Lumbre and create a product that takes the agave experience beyond the familiar...
Founder's Note
"I'm excited to introduce people to Almave - it's a project I've been working on with Casa Lumbre for a long time." Says Hamilton, founder of Almave. "There's a huge demand for quality alternatives for when people don't want to drink alcohol but also don't want to compromise on taste, so it was important that our product contained agave to mirror the taste of conventional tequila. I think it tastes amazing and what we've created is unlike anything else on the market, so I can't wait to see what you all think of it."
"While Almave's blue agave distilled non-alcoholic spirit is not tequila, we are extremely proud to be a leader in the non-alcoholic beverage category and remain true to the production and craft of tequila making, specifically the use of real agave and distillation, " said co-founder and head distiller Iván Saldaña. "While there are faster methods, we can't imagine a valuable non-alcoholic spirit without them. That's why, using our deep knowledge and spirit of discovery, we created Almave Blue Agave Spirit."
Almave Ámbar Blue Agave Spirit contains notes of roasted blue agave, sweet caramel and toasted wood. It's great for sipping or in your favorite spirits-centric cocktail. Almave Blanco Blue Agave Spirit is the purest expression of blue agave with a balance of sweetness and acidity that is perfect for mixing into a margarita or your favorite tequila cocktail.
