Gallo adds Don Fulano tequila brand to distribution portfolio

E & J Gallo (Gallo) Winery has expanded its spirits distribution portfolio with the addition of luxury tequila brand Don Fulano.

Gallo noted that its spirits division will be the exclusive US importer of Fonseca family’s tequila producer.

For five generations, the Fonseca family has been engaged in agave plant farming. This gradually led the family-owned business to undertake in the production of tequila.

All agave plants used for producing tequila are hand-selected for maturity and plant by plant, noted the company.

Don Fulano uses a dual distillation process to craft tequila. The process includes a double-column still and a traditional copper pot still.

Commenting on the partnership, Don Fulano founder Sergio Mendoza said: “We are honoured to partner with E & J Gallo. We know this partnership will accelerate the visibility of our brand throughout the US and will forge our brand’s place among the leaders in the luxury tequila category.”

The brand’s range includes Don Fulano Blanco, Don Fulano Blanco Fuerte 100 Proof, Don Fulano Reposado, Don Fulano Añejo and Don Fulano Imperial Extra Añejo.

Gallo’s existing spirits line-up includes The Dalmore Single Malt Scotch portfolio, Diplomático Rum, Jura Single Malt Scotch, Amaro Montenegro and Argonaut and Germain-Robin Brandy.

Gallo Spirits vice-president and general manager Britt West said: “With Don Fulano’s mission of producing exceptional tequila, and Gallo making a name for itself in the luxury spirits category, the partnership seemed natural.

“We recognise the demand for luxury tequila, which is growing at twice the rate of whiskey, and we see the potential for Don Fulano to flourish in the market. We couldn’t be more excited for this partnership.”

Last February, E&J Gallo Winery became the US importer for Gruppo Montenegro’s Italian spirits portfolio, which includes Amaro Montenegro, Select Aperitivo and Vecchia Romagna Brandy.