
In a vibrant celebration of Mexican culture and artistry, 1800® Tequila, the world’s most awarded tequila, has announced the launch of the 12th edition of its acclaimed “Essential Artist Series.” This year, the brand partners with renowned multimedia artist Raúl de Nieves, presenting a stunning six-bottle collection inspired by original stained-glass artwork that encapsulates the spirit of Mexican heritage and identity.
The Essential Artist Series was designed as a groundbreaking initiative to connect the worlds of art and tequila, showcasing pieces in a non-traditional medium. Each iteration highlights a unique dialogue around the influential ties between creativity and culture. This latest collection spotlights de Nieves’ passion for storytelling through traditional Mexican craft, mirroring 1800 Tequila’s commitment to amplifying Mexican voices in contemporary spaces.
“Being Mexican has always been at the forefront of my identity, so I am incredibly honored for 1800 Tequila, a brand that makes it a priority to spotlight Mexican voices, to have selected me as this year’s Essential Artist,” said de Nieves. “My culture is my craft, and I am beyond excited to unveil this collaboration to the world and bring Mexican culture to a global stage through this partnership.”
Each of the six bottles features original artwork from de Nieves, an extension of his installation titled “A window to the see, a spirit star chiming in the wind of wonder…” displayed at the Henry Art Gallery at the University of Washington. The designs epitomize a celestial landscape filled with self-discovery, as each bottle narrates a character’s voyage between the earthly and ancestral realms. At the neck of each bottle, the “Sagrado Corazón” symbolizes the heart of time—capturing the essence of life, memories, and moments shared.
The collaboration kicked off with an exclusive preview during the Prospect.6 contemporary art triennial in New Orleans on Día de los Muertos, a Mexican holiday dedicated to honoring departed loved ones. 1800 Tequila not only showcased de Nieves’ breathtaking bottles but also served as the exclusive benefactor for his “Un Corazón Sagrado” sculpture, now residing at the Harmony Circle in New Orleans. Additionally, 1800 Tequila was the Official Tequila for the Prospect.6 Artist Party and Gala, further cementing its role in promoting artistic endeavors.
“This decades-long art project has produced accessible art collectibles for our fans, collaborating with some of the world’s most culturally relevant artists,” explained Lander Otegui, Senior Vice President of Marketing at Proximo Spirits. “As the tequila category grows, 1800 Tequila maintains its leadership as a historic Mexican brand that prioritizes taste and cultural impact. We are excited to have Raúl de Nieves join us this year to explore our colorful Mexican heritage with a U.S. audience.”
The 12th edition of the Essential Artist Series continues the brand’s longstanding tradition of melding fine tequila with innovative art. Previous collaborations have included prominent names such as Dustin Yellin, Okuda San Miguel, Shantell Martin, and the estates of Basquiat and Haring, each project transforming glass bottles into coveted collectible canvases.
Available now at 1800Tequila.com and in select stores nationwide, the exclusive Raúl de Nieves collection invites aficionados and art lovers alike to experience the intersection of culture, creativity, and exceptional tequila.