Tequila isn’t just for margaritas—it’s an art form, and Ana Martinez, the Resident Tequila Master at Hilton Los Cabos, is here to revolutionize what you know. In the Sotol Bar and La Biblioteca, a tequila haven within the resort, Ana conducts agave spirits tastings surrounded by exquisite tequilas and mezcals. Her infectious passion and spirit for agave is palpable, turning hour-long classes into unforgettable experiences that will make you fall in love with tequila. Hailing from northern Spain, Ana’s journey is a testament to her unrivaled expertise, making her the go-to authority for all things agave.
Passion in Every Pour: Ana’s Spirited Introduction
In just one hour, Ana Martinez, the spirited maestra, will provide an enchanting overview of the intricate world of Tequila and Mezcal. Her joy for artisanal spirits and commitment to education radiates through the exploration of production processes, standards, and the hallmarks of top-tier spirits. The hotel’s Biblioteca and Sotol Bar are sanctuaries dedicated to the artistry of agave, where Ana holds court.
Her expertise goes beyond the ordinary. She has studied Mexican tequilas, mezcals, and agaves with the precision of a wine sommelier delving into vinification. As a leading expert, she shares her profound knowledge with Hilton Los Cabos guests, providing firsthand insights into flavor profiles, master distillers, and the rich history of Mexican regions producing agave plants.
The Evolution of a Maestra
Ana’s role as Assistant Food & Beverage Director at Hilton Los Cabos since February 2022 reflects her commitment to overseeing food and beverage outlets and spearheading new projects. Before gracing the shores of Los Cabos, she brought her expertise as Assistant Food & Beverage Director to Hilton’s Conrad Punta de Mita from October 2020 to February 2022. Leading outlets such as Colibri Coffee Shop, Arbol Restaurant, Tuki Lobby Bar, Room Service, and more, Ana’s impact on the culinary landscape is profound. From Agave Experiences to Mexican Agave Dinners and crafting personalized Tequila & Mezcal blends, Ana’s influence extended into unique and immersive experiences.
Mastering Spirits
During her sessions, Ana demystifies the production of tequila and mezcal, unraveling nuances like the specific region requirements for tequila production and the diverse agave types for mezcal. She guides guests on how to select favorites at home, revealing a unique concept: with nearly 2000 tequila brands, but only 200 distilleries, finding a preferred brand often means discovering others crafted in the same distillery.
Ana’s pursuit of knowledge didn’t stop with her professional journey. She has earned certifications such as the Tequila Technician Diploma from the University of Guadalajara, Mexico, and became a Mezcóloga with a diploma from CEMMEZ, the Maguey and Mezcal Study Center in Oaxaca. A BarSmarts Certificate from Pernod Ricard U.S.A showcased her commitment to staying at the forefront of spirits and mixology.
A Spirited Icon
Beyond the tasting room, Ana covers intriguing aspects, from the origins of tequila and mezcal to the unique curvature of sample glasses. She educates on reading tequila labels and shares her own personal preferences. Ana’s role extends to crafting signature agave cocktails, consulting on curated bars for events, and guiding guests through the “Agave Bible” at Sotol, listing tasting notes for nearly 200 agave spirits.
In the world of spirits, Ana Martinez isn’t just a professional—she’s an icon. Her journey from Spain to Los Cabos, reflects a passion for agave spirits that goes beyond the ordinary. As Assistant F&B Director and Resident Tequila Master, Ana’s legacy is etched in every sip and every experience, making her the undisputed maestra of the Hilton Los Cabos culinary realm
