Altos Tequila & Julio Bermejo shine at North America’s 50 Best Bars Awards 2025

On April 29th, Vancouver became the epicenter of the cocktail world as it hosted the North America’s 50 Best Bars 2025 awards ceremony. For the fourth consecutive year, Altos Tequila had the honor of being an official sponsor, reinforcing its commitment to quality and innovation in the world of spirits.
Altos Tequila: A Commitment to Excellence
Altos was present as an official tequila sponsor of the event, reaffirming its leadership in the spirits industry. This participation not only highlights its dedication to quality but also its commitment to promoting tequila culture on a global scale. Since its launch, Altos Tequila has stood out for its authenticity and exceptional flavor, making it a favorite among bartenders and spirits enthusiasts.
Julio Bermejo and the Iconic Tommy’s Margarita
This year, Altos collaborated closely with Julio Bermejo, owner of Tommy’s Mexican Restaurant in San Francisco and a global tequila ambassador. Bermejo, recognized as a legend in the world of mixology, took his place behind the bar alongside Dre Masso, Altos’ global ambassador, to recreate the iconic Tommy’s Margarita with Altos Plata. This classic margarita, known for its simplicity and pure ingredients, has been a symbol of authentic tequila for decades.

Eli Martínez Bello: Breaking Barriers in Mixology
In addition to Bermejo’s participation, the ceremony also witnessed a historic moment for Mexican mixology. Eli Martínez Bello, head bartender at Tlecān in Mexico City, became the first Mexican woman to receive the Altos Bartenders’ Bartender Award. This prestigious recognition, voted by industry peers, celebrates her leadership, creativity, and dedication to highlighting Mexican traditions and spirits.
Martínez Bello has dedicated more than two decades to the hospitality industry, standing out for her focus on native ingredients and for creating experiences that celebrate Mexican culture. Her bar, Tlecān, is a tribute to pre-Hispanic roots, using elements like agave spines instead of wooden picks and offering traditional Mexican spirits like pulque and tejuino.

Celebrating Mexican Excellence in Mixology
Mexico shone on the list of the 50 best bars in the world, with Handshake Speakeasy from Mexico City taking the top spot for the second consecutive year. Other standout Mexican bars include Tlecān (No. 3), Licorería Limantour (No. 9), and El Gallo Altanero in Guadalajara (No. 8).
These recognitions reflect the growing impact of Mexican mixology on the international scene and the commitment of House of Tequila to excellence and the promotion of Mexican culture through its brands and collaborations.