CRAFTED IN MEXICO, CELEBRATED IN AUSTRALIA: ADAM GILCHRIST’S EL ARQUERO TEQUILA HITS THE MARKET
Cricket legend Adam Gilchrist has swapped the crease for craftsmanship, unveiling his newest venture - El Arquero; a premium, additive-free tequila born in Mexico and crafted for Australia.
Inspired by his passion for premium spirits and authentic craftsmanship, Gilchrist and wife Mel, partnered with drinks industry leaders Eddie Brook (Cape Byron Distillery), Dan Fitzgerald (Fourth Wave Wine), Stephen Atkinson and John Eastham to create a tequila brand that blends artisanal Mexican heritage with the laid-back Australian way of life.
The team’s journey took them to the highlands of Jalisco, Mexico, where they partnered with Destiladora de Los Altos (NOM 1412); a third-generation, family-owned distillery steeped in tradition and renowned as the original founders of Cazadores. With over 50 years of mastery, the Banuelos family crafts small-batch tequila using only the ripest agave, slow-cooked to maximise flavour, pristine spring water and natural yeast. The result: a spirit that is 100% Blue Agave, 100% additive-free, and exceptionally smooth.
“El Arquero isn’t just tequila; it’s a spirit that connects worlds,” said Gilchrist. “Beyond cricket, this has been a lifelong dream. Travelling to Mexico, hand-picking the finest ingredients, learning the craft and building both the team and the business… to now see it bottled and on shelves is truly a pinch-yourself moment.”
El Arquero is available in Blanco, Reposado and Añejo (release 2026), each expression highlighting the purity of the agave and the skill of the distillers. The Blanco opens with aromas of roasted pineapple, cooked agave, citrus and white pepper; on the palate it delivers natural vanilla, lemon and silky depth. All expressions are designed to be enjoyed neat, over ice, or in premium cocktails - versatile yet refined.
As an Australian-owned tequila brand, El Arquero stands apart in a category traditionally dominated by overseas imports. By connecting authentically to Mexican heritage while embracing the Australian lifestyle, it aims to drive new energy and growth in the tequila market.
Unique attributes of El Arquero
100% additive-free (verified by the Additive Free Alliance)
Small-batch artisanal production100% Blue Agave (aged 6–7 years before harvest)
Tighter cuts during distillation for cleaner, lighter spirit
Crafted in the tequila highlands of Jalisco
Produced by a third-generation family-owned distillery
Benefits for consumers
Additive-free = less sugar, carbs, and calories than other spirits
Cleaner, smoother tequila that’s naturally elegant
Authentic production heritage backed by one of Mexico’s most respected families
“El Arquero is about more than tequila,” Gilchrist added. “It’s about connection, quality and celebrating life’s moments with something real. Australians love authenticity and that’s what we’re bringing to the table.”
With the rise of premium tequila globally and growing demand among Australian consumers, El Arquero arrives at the perfect time, offering not just a drink, but a new way to experience and enjoy the spirit.
El Arquero. Crafted in Mexico. Celebrated in Australia. We’re all in this Tequila.
