The News
Tequila Rimari, founded by Dheeraj Naidu and Vrunda Parekh, received a Double Gold medal for its Blanco tequila and a Gold medal for its Reposado at the 2026 Agavos Awards. The brand’s Blanco was also named Agave Matchmaker’s #1 Must-Try Blanco Tequila of 2026. The tequila is produced in Jalisco, Mexico, using mature Blue Weber agave and sake yeast fermentation.
The latest buzz in the tequila arena comes from Tequila Rimari—a Maryland‑based brand that has just earned top honors at the Agavos Awards and been named #1 Must‑Try by Agave Matchmaker. In this column I unpack what those accolades mean for distributors, on‑premise operators, and retailers who are already juggling a crowded premium line.
The awards show that an independent distillery can stand alongside larger brands. The Agavos Awards use blind tasting and a 100‑point scale, requiring competitors to submit retail bottles rather than brand‑supplied samples. Rimari received Double Gold for its Blanco and Gold for its Reposado, while Lost Lore scored 96 points in the same cycle—an indicator of how competitive the field is.
The release notes that Rimari is distilled at NOM 1414 in Jalisco by Master Distiller Sergio Cruz, using a sake‑yeast fermentation that gives a floral citrus profile. The mix of traditional Mexican agave sourcing and a unique fermentation sets it apart for cocktails demanding depth and a distinct flavor profile.
The awards mention a $80 retail point for high‑proof Blanos, suggesting Rimari sits in the premium bracket. Distributors can position Rimari accordingly as a credible craft alternative to mainstream tequilas. Double Gold gives a clear selling point for labels, POS displays, and cocktail menus.
Bars can add Rimari to high‑proof cocktails needing depth and a citrus twist. Since no exclusive partner is listed, bars can order via their usual wholesalers. Retailers can add Rimari to their premium lineup but keep an eye on inventory turnover; pairing it with other high-scoring Blanos builds a quality story while monitoring stock levels helps avoid excess.
The accolades demonstrate that a small, independently distilled brand can compete in a crowded market, and they provide clear cues for how distributors, bars, and retailers might integrate Rimari into their portfolios.
Original Press Release
CLARKSBURG, Md. — Tequila Rimari, the Maryland-based premium tequila brand founded by husband-and-wife team Dheeraj Naidu and Vrunda Parekh, announced a series of recent industry recognitions, including a Double Gold medal for Tequila Rimari Blanco and a Gold medal for Tequila Rimari Reposado at the 2026 Agavos Awards.
The awards mark another milestone for the growing independent tequila brand, which has gained attention for its distinctive production process that incorporates sake yeast fermentation, creating a unique flavor profile while maintaining traditional tequila craftsmanship.
In addition to its success at the Agavos Awards, Tequila Rimari Blanco was recently recognized by Agave Matchmaker as the publication’s “#1 Must-Try Blanco Tequila of 2026,” placing the brand among a select group of tequilas highlighted for consumers and enthusiasts seeking noteworthy new expressions.
Produced at NOM 1414 in the Highlands of Jalisco, Mexico, Tequila Rimari is crafted from mature Blue Weber agave and distilled under the guidance of Master Distiller Sergio Cruz. The brand combines traditional tequila-making methods with an innovative fermentation approach utilizing sake yeast, resulting in a flavor profile characterized by floral aromatics, bright agave character, citrus notes, and a balanced finish.
“These recognitions are especially meaningful because they come from respected organizations focused on agave spirits,” said Dheeraj Naidu, co-founder of Tequila Rimari. “Our goal has always been to create a tequila that honors tradition while introducing consumers to something genuinely distinctive. Receiving recognition for both our Blanco and Reposado expressions validates that vision.”
Since its launch, Tequila Rimari has earned multiple industry accolades, including awards from major spirits competitions and favorable reviews from tequila-focused publications and enthusiasts. The recent Agavos Awards and Agave Matchmaker recognition further highlight the brand’s growing presence within the premium tequila category.
Sources consulted (web research):
- Tequila Rimari Wins Double Gold At Agavos Awards Named Agave Matchmak…
- Moco Couples Award Winning Tequila Rimari Now Available In Montgomery…
- Volcan De Mi Tierra Wins Multiple Double Golds A Testament To Craftsm…
- Agavos Awards Finds The Best In Agave Spirits
- Agavosawards site
- Arbitrario Artisanal Mezcal Earns Four Medals At The 2026 Agavos Inte…
- The Worlds Best Tequila According To The 2026 Agavos Awards
Source: BevNET