Kendall Jenner is the founder and owner of 818 Tequila, having launched the brand in May 2021. While Jenner provides the creative vision and brand direction, the physical production takes place at the Grupo Solave distillery (NOM 1607) in Amatitán, Jalisco, Mexico, under the expertise of local master tequileros and Director of Tequila Operations David Yan González.
The story of who made 818 Tequila is a multi-layered narrative involving a world-famous fashion model, a family-owned Mexican distillery, and a shift in production facilities that redefined the brand's flavor profile. To understand the origin of this spirit, one must look beyond the label and into the specific NOM (Norma Oficial Mexicana) designations, the master distillers involved, and the business structure that brought the brand to global prominence by 2026.
Kendall Jenner: The Visionary and Founder
As of 2026, Kendall Jenner remains the central figure and majority stakeholder of 818 Tequila. Unlike many celebrity-backed spirits where the star acts merely as a spokesperson, Jenner has been vocal about her role as an active founder. Her journey with 818 began nearly four years before the public launch. During this period, she engaged in a process of "blind tasting," entering various iterations of her tequila into prestigious spirits competitions under anonymous aliases.
The brand's name, 818, is a direct reference to the area code of Calabasas, California, where Jenner was raised. This branding choice was intended to bridge the gap between her California roots and the traditional Mexican craftsmanship required to produce authentic tequila. Jenner’s involvement extends from the initial flavor profiling—aiming for a smooth, accessible finish—to the aesthetic design of the bottles and the brand’s sustainability initiatives.
In the business structure, Jenner operates through her company, Kynetic, which manages her various ventures. However, the operational side of the tequila business relies on a partnership with industry veterans who navigate the complexities of international distribution, Mexican labor laws, and the strict regulations governed by the Tequila Regulatory Council (CRT).
The Production Source: From NOM 1137 to NOM 1607
In the world of tequila, the NOM (Norma Oficial Mexicana) is a four-digit code on every bottle that identifies the specific distillery where the spirit was produced. This is the most accurate way to answer "who made" the tequila in a physical sense. 818 Tequila has utilized two different primary distilleries since its inception, a common move for growing brands seeking better quality control or increased volume.
The Original Distillery: NOM 1137
When 818 Tequila first appeared in international competitions and during its initial California rollout, it was produced at La Cofradía (NOM 1137). This distillery is one of the most prolific in Jalisco, known for producing dozens of different tequila brands simultaneously. While this allowed 818 to scale quickly, it also subjected the brand to criticism from tequila aficionados who argued that "contract brands" from large distilleries lack a unique identity.
The Transition to NOM 1607 (Grupo Solave)
Shortly after the official launch, production moved to Grupo Solave (NOM 1607), located in the heart of Amatitán, Jalisco. This move was significant because it allowed 818 to establish its own dedicated production area. By 2026, the partnership with Grupo Solave has matured, focusing on state-of-the-art facilities that prioritize sustainability and traditional cooking methods. Grupo Solave is a vertically integrated company, meaning they often have greater control over the agave fields and the waste management of the production process.
The Master Tequileros: The Hands Behind the Liquid
While Kendall Jenner is the face of the brand, the "makers" in the traditional sense are the master distillers and operations directors in Mexico. These individuals are responsible for the fermentation, distillation, and aging processes that define the spirit's character.
David Yan González
David Yan González serves as the Director of Tequila Operations for 818. With extensive experience in the spirits industry, González acts as the bridge between the brand’s California headquarters and the distillery in Jalisco. He oversees the technical aspects of production, ensuring that the flavor profiles Jenner approved years ago remain consistent across different batches. His role is crucial in maintaining the "house style," which is characterized by a sweet, vanilla-forward profile that appeals to a broad consumer base.
Melly Barajas Cárdenas
In the brand's early development phases and during its time at previous facilities, Melly Barajas Cárdenas was frequently cited as the master tequilera involved with the product. Barajas is one of the few prominent female master distillers in Mexico and is the founder of her own distillery, Leyros. Her involvement was a key point of pride for the brand during its launch, highlighting a commitment to supporting female-led operations in a traditionally male-dominated industry.
The Artisanal Process: How 818 is Crafted
To fully understand who made 818, one must look at the agricultural and chemical processes employed at NOM 1607. The creation of the tequila involves several specific stages that differentiate it from mass-market, "diffuser-made" tequilas.
- Agave Sourcing: 818 uses 100% Blue Weber Agave. By 2026, the brand has deepened its commitment to sourcing agave from both the Los Altos (Highlands) and the Tequila Valley (Lowlands) to achieve a balance of citrus and earthy notes. The agave plants are typically harvested only after reaching full maturity, which takes roughly six to seven years.
- Cooking: Unlike many industrial brands that use high-pressure diffusers to extract sugar, 818 utilizes traditional stone ovens (hornos). The agave hearts, or piñas, are slow-cooked for approximately 30 hours. This slow cooking converts complex starches into fermentable sugars while preserving the natural sweetness of the plant.
- Extraction: After cooking, the piñas are crushed to extract the juice (aguamiel). While the brand uses modern roller mills for efficiency, the focus remains on preventing the extraction of bitter fibers.
- Fermentation: The fermentation process for 818 is extended, often lasting up to 48 hours or more. This longer period allows for more complex flavor development, as the yeast interacts with the sugars and the unique environment of the Amatitán distillery.
- Distillation: The tequila is double-distilled in pot stills. This method is more labor-intensive than column distillation but results in a richer mouthfeel and more robust flavor profile.
| Feature | Specification (818 Blanco) | Specification (818 Reposado) | Specification (818 Añejo) |
|---|---|---|---|
| NOM | 1607 | 1607 | 1607 |
| Agave Age | 6-7 Years | 6-7 Years | 6-7 Years |
| Distillation | Double Distilled | Double Distilled | Double Distilled |
| Aging Duration | None (Rested briefly) | 9 Months | Over 1 Year |
| Barrel Type | N/A | French & American Oak | French & American Oak |
| Primary Notes | Sweet Agave, Vanilla | Caramel, Honey, Spice | Chocolate, Toasted Nut |
The Business Behind the Bottle
The entity that legally "makes" and distributes 818 Tequila is 818 Spirits, a company that falls under the broader umbrella of Jenner’s business portfolio. In 2021, the brand received significant backing and distribution support from Proximo Spirits, a major player in the alcohol industry that also handles brands like Jose Cuervo.
This partnership was instrumental in 818’s rapid expansion. Proximo’s logistics network ensured that 818 moved from a "celebrity vanity project" to a top-selling premium tequila in record time. By 2026, 818 has expanded its footprint into European and Asian markets, solidified by Jenner’s global influence and the technical prowess of the Proximo distribution engine.
Sustainability and The 818 Bricks Program
A unique aspect of "who made" 818 is the community-focused production model established in Jalisco. Under the direction of the sustainability team, the brand launched the 818 Bricks Program. This initiative takes the leftover agave fibers (bagasse) and water waste (vinasse) from the distillation process and transforms them into usable bricks.
These bricks are then donated to local infrastructure projects in the Amatitán region, such as building schools and community centers. This program serves as a response to criticisms regarding the environmental impact of celebrity-owned brands. It demonstrates that the "makers" of 818 are not just those in the boardroom, but also the local community members who benefit from and contribute to the brand’s circular economy.
The Product Portfolio
The team at NOM 1607 produces four distinct expressions under the 818 label, each requiring a different level of craftsmanship from the master tequilero:
- 818 Blanco: The foundation of the brand. It is clear, unaged, and focuses on the pure expression of the agave. It is known for its smooth finish and dominant vanilla notes.
- 818 Reposado: Aged for nine months in a blend of French and American oak barrels. The "maker" here must carefully monitor the barrels to ensure the wood does not overpower the agave.
- 818 Añejo: Aged for over a year, this expression is designed for sipping. It develops deep amber colors and flavors of chocolate and vanilla due to the extended contact with charred oak.
- Eight Reserve by 818: This is the brand’s ultra-premium offering, launched as a blend of Añejo and Extra Añejo tequilas aged up to eight years. The ceramic decanter, shaped like an "8," represents the pinnacle of the brand's design and blending capabilities as of 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Kendall Jenner actually own 818 Tequila?
Yes, Kendall Jenner is the founder and majority owner of 818 Tequila. She is deeply involved in the brand's marketing, flavor profile selection, and sustainability initiatives. While she partners with larger distribution entities, the brand is her personal venture.
Where is 818 Tequila physically made?
As of 2026, 818 Tequila is made at the Grupo Solave distillery, identified by NOM 1607. The distillery is located in Amatitán, Jalisco, Mexico. This region is famous for its volcanic soil, which is ideal for growing the Blue Weber Agave used in the production process.
Is 818 Tequila additive-free?
818 Tequila is widely known for its sweet, vanilla-heavy flavor profile. While the brand emphasizes its use of 100% Blue Weber Agave and traditional cooking methods, the Tequila Regulatory Council allows for certain "abocantes" (additives) in small percentages without requiring a label change. Many enthusiasts note the vanilla profile suggests some level of flavoring, though the brand markets itself as a premium, high-quality spirit.
Why did 818 change its NOM?
818 transitioned from NOM 1137 to NOM 1607 to gain more control over the production process and sustainability efforts. Moving to Grupo Solave allowed the brand to implement its 818 Bricks Program more effectively and ensure a dedicated production line that met Kendall Jenner’s specific flavor requirements.
Who is the master distiller for 818?
The production is currently overseen by David Yan González, the Director of Tequila Operations, working alongside the expert distillers at Grupo Solave. In the early stages, Melly Barajas Cárdenas was a key figure in the distillation and development of the spirit.
Final Recommendation
If you are looking to explore 818 Tequila, understand that it is a product designed for accessibility and smoothness. While it is founded by Kendall Jenner, its heart lies in Amatitán, Jalisco. For those who prefer a traditional, earthy tequila with minimal sweetness, 818 might feel overly modern. However, for consumers who enjoy a vanilla-forward, easy-sipping spirit or a versatile base for cocktails like a Paloma or Margarita, 818 offers a high-quality entry point into the world of premium tequila. When purchasing, always look for the NOM 1607 on the bottle to ensure you are getting the most current and sustainably produced version of the spirit.
