“Respect for the plant, respect for time”: Enrique de Colsa and the philosophy behind The Lost Explorer tequila

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Legendary maestro tequilero Enrique de Colsa discusses his collaboration with The Lost Explorer, the philosophy behind its first tequila, and why true craftsmanship begins with respect, for the agave and for time itself.

With more than two decades at the helm of production for one of the world’s most respected tequila brands, Enrique de Colsa has earned —per se— the industry’s esteem through consistency, stability, and genuine innovation. And he’s done so in a category that, over the past few years, has captured the full spotlight of global attention. Just a few months ago, de Colsa took on the “technical leadership” of The Lost Explorer team, crafting its very first tequila, a piece of news that made quite a stir when it broke. He was recently in Greece, where I had the pleasure of meeting and speaking with him.

The Lost Explorer was founded in 2016 by David Mayer de Rothschild as an environmentally conscious mezcal brand. Its philosophy embraced sustainable cultivation, social responsibility, and respect for both community and environment. It all started with three distinct mezcal expressions from Oaxaca, each made from a different agave species: Espadín (Agave angustifolia), Tobalá (Agave potatorum), and Salmiana (Agave salmiana).

Από το ιβέντ του brand στην Αθήνα

Before the brand even reached its tenth year, the decision was made to expand into the highly competitive tequila market. Enrique de Colsa was the obvious choice. He joined not merely as maestro tequilero but as a creative partner in the project —since, as he confides, he had already developed a complete plan for a Lowlands tequila, something he had long envisioned: a spirit made in a distillery dedicated solely to its production, free from the multi-brand setups that dominate most Mexican facilities. When The Lost Explorer heard of his concept, they invited him to bring it to life together —and so they did.

I had the chance to taste The Lost Explorer Tequila Blanco Edición No.1 at a recent event hosted in Athens by Dynamiki S.A., which de Colsa attended in person, flying in from Mexico. Believe me, it wasn’t just a refreshing contrast to the many new tequilas flooding the market, rather a remarkable expression of an agave distillate. De Colsa describes it as an authentic tequila that highlights the raw agave and the mineral character of the Lowlands terroir, with a subtle sweet-spiced finish.

He underlines that both in tequila and mezcal production, The Lost Explorer follows a unifying principle: deep respect for nature and for the time it takes an agave plant to mature —whether seven or twenty years. That respect translates into a ”duty” to preserve and express the plant’s original aromas and flavors through the brand’s spirits. “It tastes like tequila should taste,” he says, quoting the reaction of many who have tried the new release: “sabe a lo que debe saber el tequila.”

If that sounds like a bold claim, it isn’t. In recent years, the tequila market —driven by demand and not always by integrity— has become crowded with products that, frankly, don’t taste much like tequila. This phenomenon has sparked one of the industry’s biggest debates in decades: the controversy over permitted additives and the rise of the “additive-free” movement. When I asked whether this debate has helped or harmed the category and consumers’ perception of it, de Colsa was clear:
”Additives have always been allowed in tequila production. The problem now is the abuse of them. That’s why all our products are additive-free.”

Enrique de Colsa και Γιάννης Κοροβέσης

Another recurring topic is the sustainability of tequila production —especially given rising demand and the monoculture nature of agave farming. De Colsa acknowledges that it’s difficult to speak for the entire industry, since every company knows its own limits and capabilities. Yet he affirms that The Lost Explorer is firmly committed to keeping all its processes truly sustainable.

When I ask about the label Edición No.1 and whether it hints at future releases, he explains that the numbering was initially meant to visually align with the mezcal range, all of which carry edition numbers. As for what’s next, he smiles: a Reposado is already finished, though not yet released, beyond that, he won’t say more.

Throughout our conversation, Enrique de Colsa remains calm, approachable, and grounded —the kind of humility that comes from years spent in the fields and besides the still. Yet he also carries the easy confidence of someone at home among people, the natural charm of a man who has traveled widely for his craft. When I ask where he believes a spirit’s reputation is truly earned —in the field, the distillery, or out in the world exploring new markets— his answer comes without hesitation: “In the field and the distillery. That’s where all the magic happens.” Still, he adds, sharing those creations with others is a rewarding way to pass on one’s passion.

Ο Enrique de Colsa στα Μετέωρα

Having done my homework, I ask him about Meteora —one of his self-declared favorite destinations in the world. He interrupts me with a smile: he’s already been there three times and plans to return. Over the years, Enrique has built many friendships in Greece and honors them with frequent visits. “Greeks and Mexicans share so much,” he says. “A special bond with gastronomy —from street tacos and gyros to Michelin-starred restaurants— amazing bars, stunning beaches, vibrant cities. We’re friendly, joyful people who love to share food, drinks, music, and tradition, yet we also have deeply spiritual souls.”

We wrapped up our conversation on that warm note, just as the event drew to a close. I’m certain Enrique will return to Greece soon, though I wouldn’t bet on whether it’ll be for a holiday or for another new creation from The Lost Explorer. Either way, both he and his tequilas will always be welcome here.