If you’ve been scanning the tequila shelves lately with a growing sense of panic, you aren’t alone. That iconic, recycled green glass bottle with the flip-top, La Gritona Reposado, has been harder to find than a quiet corner in a crowded dive bar.
But before you start hoarding your last two ounces, take a deep breath. We’ve got the inside scoop on the import change for La Gritona and, more importantly, when it's coming back to your local glass.
The Import Shift: What Happened?
The shortage wasn't due to a lack of agave or Melly Cárdenas (the master distiller) taking a vacation. The "limited supply" was actually a behind-the-scenes logistical shift. La Gritona recently underwent a significant import change, transitioning to new distribution partners to better manage their growing demand across the U.S.
When a boutique brand moves through the "plumbing" of the spirits industry, there’s often a temporary dry spell while the old stock clears and the new legal paperwork settles. Think of it as a brief intermission in an otherwise stellar performance.
Why We Wait (And Why It’s Worth It)
La Gritona isn't your average mass-produced tequila. It’s a specialized operation:
- Female-Owned & Operated: Distilled by Melly Cárdenas and her team at the NOM 1533 distillery.
- Lower Heat, Better Flavor: They cook their agave in ovens for 24 hours, much slower than the industrial "diffusers" used by big brands.
- The Signature Finish: It’s rested in charred American oak barrels for 8 months, resulting in a reposado that is vegetal, crisp, and not overly sweet.
The Good News: Mark Your Calendars
The drought is almost over. We’ve received confirmation that the new shipments are currently in transit. La Gritona will be back in our great state in early May.
By the second week of May, you can expect to see those beautiful green bottles hitting the shelves of your favorite NC ABC stores and backbars at the best cocktail spots.