Tequila Honor clarifies funding amid controversy

Tequila Honor, the US-based Tequila brand caught up in allegations that its associate, actress Kate del Castillo, is linked to drugs fugitive El Chapo, has released a statement clarifying its funding.

Tequila Honor does not name actress Kate del Castillo as a founder

The statement, copied in full below, was sent to The Spirits Business following reports that prosecutors in Mexico formally asked del Castillo to testify over alleged financial links with the notorious drugs fugitive Joaquin “El Chapo” Guzman.

In the release, the company states that Castillo was invited to take part in the “Tequila project”, and does not mention the actress as a founder.

The statement reads: “Miami, FL. Tequila Honor LLC is guided by the values of integrity, independence, and of course, honour.

“Ms. Kate del Castillo was invited to take part in this Tequila project as the image of the brand due to her independent spirit and love for Tequila.

“Tequila Honor LLC has exclusively been funded by its founders, a group of brand development experts focused on bringing an excellent product to market. As such, Tequila Honor LLC has worked directly with its Tequila vendor the Vivanco family, fourth generation agave growers and producers of Tequila of the highest quality, helping us craft our unique profile which is being produced in an honest and authentic way.

“Tequila Honor LLC has not been called to testify and intends to cooperate with the authorities as needed.”

Del Castillo, who has not been charged with any crime, denies the allegations and has stated on Twitter that the reports “aren’t truthful”.