Story | October 10, 2025
To mark its 40th release, The Last Drop Distillers proudly unveils its first-ever tequila: an Extra Añejo created by Carmen Villarreal, pioneering tequilera and owner of Casa San Matías, one of Mexico’s oldest family-owned distilleries. Founded in 1886 in the Highlands of Jalisco, Casa San Matías has been at the heart of Mexican tequila-making for over a century, balancing deep-rooted tradition with a spirit of innovation.
Carmen, who became the first woman to lead a tequila distillery, has dedicated her career to crafting exceptional spirits and to championing sustainable, community-driven production. Under her stewardship, Casa San Matías introduced the world’s first officially recognized “Extra Añejo” tequila in 1993 – well before the category was formally defined – setting a new benchmark for aged expressions.
For this landmark collaboration with The Last Drop, Carmen selected and blended three extraordinary casks: two aged for ten years in ex-bourbon barrels and one aged for seven years in a port pipe. The result is a bold yet elegant tequila that has matured for more than twice the minimum required for the Extra Añejo designation. Each cask adds a distinct dimension – depth from bourbon oak, fruit and spice from port wood—culminating in a beautifully balanced and vibrant spirit. In total, only 435 bottles have been released worldwide.
This release also marks Carmen’s induction into The Assembly, The Last Drop’s unique collective of master distillers, blenders, and craftspeople from across the world of fine spirits. Established to celebrate shared expertise and foster creativity across categories, The Assembly guides The Last Drop’s journey of discovery – advising on the selection of rare casks, inspiring new blends, and shaping the brand’s Signature Creations. Carmen’s appointment brings the voice of tequila to this distinguished group for the first time.
Release 40 – SIGNATURE CREATION – EXTRA AÑEJO TEQUILA
A golden amber hue with soft copper reflections. On the nose, roasted nuts and spiced oak open to reveal tropical pineapple, vanilla, and orange blossom. The palate unfolds with dulce de leche, cooked agave, plums, and dates, lifted by warming cinnamon and clove and a delicate floral sweetness. The finish is long and refined, balancing the richness of oak and dried fruit with the fresh vibrancy of the agave heart.
Release No. 40 stands as both a celebration of craftsmanship and a bridge between two worlds – the artistry of Mexican tequila-making and The Last Drop’s enduring pursuit of the world’s most remarkable spirits.
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