The use of additives in agave spirits has been a hot topic of debate 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. Many brands claim to be additive-free, but consumers have had no way to verify these claims. However, a new organization has emerged to help consumers determine whether their favorite spirits are truly free from additives.
The Formation of the Additive Free Alliance
Grover and Scarlet Sanschagrin, co-founders of Tequila Matchmaker, saw the growing demand for third-party confirmation of additive-free tequila and decided to take action. They established the Additive Free Alliance, Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing transparency in the agave spirits industry. Initially a program run through their website and app, the AFA has now evolved into an independent entity with a board of directors and a broader mission beyond just tequila.
The Additive Free Alliance is not just limited to tequila; it encompasses a wide range of agave-related spirits, including raicilla, mezcal, and agave-based products like agave syrups. One such product to join the Alliance is the newly released Weber Ranch 1902 Vodka, made entirely from Blue Weber agave grown in Jalisco, Mexico. Developed by the team behind Patrón Tequila, this vodka aims to retain the unique flavor profile of agave while remaining completely additive-free.
Verification Process
To be part of the Additive Free Alliance, brands must agree to have their products analyzed by an independent liquid chromatography lab and undergo a sensorial evaluation to confirm the absence of additives. The AFA currently includes 100 brands, nearly 400 products, over 125 retail partners, and 42 distilleries. Participating brands cover the costs of lab testing, with a nominal fee required after the first year to support operational expenses.
Challenges Faced
Despite its noble intentions, the Additive Free Alliance has faced pushback from larger producers in the industry. Grover Sanschagrin has even confronted false criminal allegations from the Consejo Regulador del Tequila, the Mexican regulatory body overseeing tequila production. Despite these challenges, the AFA remains dedicated to promoting transparency and integrity in the agave spirits sector.
It is important to note that the Additive Free Alliance is not against brands that use additives in their products. The organization’s primary goal is to advocate for transparency in product labeling, providing consumers with the information they need to make informed choices. The AFA is not a regulatory body but rather a community of like-minded companies committed to honesty and openness.
The popularity of the Additive Free Alliance has exceeded the expectations of its founders, highlighting a significant consumer demand for transparency in the agave spirits industry. By offering a reliable verification process, the AFA is empowering consumers to make informed decisions about the products they choose to support.