La Pulga Spirits, founded locally by three Fort Worth entrepreneurs, is now the first-ever “Official Tequila of the Horned Frogs,” under a new partnership with TCU Athletics.

However, the brand’s story goes far beyond this achievement, deeply intertwined with the Fort Worth community and Mexican heritage.

A brand rooted in spirit, heritage and community

The essence of La Pulga Spirits is rooted in its name, which pays homage to the Fort Worth open-air market known as La Pulga—one of the oldest and most vibrant mercados since the 1940s. 

The brand embodies the spirit of this lively market, where people gather to celebrate, share meals, dance to live music, and sell their goods. It’s a place where community thrives, and this sense of connection and joy is at the heart of La Pulga Spirits.

The founders—TCU alum, club owner and operator of the Northside Fort Worth open-air market Andrew De La Torre, well-known and respected Fort Worth restaurateur Sarah Castillo, and local entrepreneur Stephen Slaughter—were deeply inspired by the high energy and camaraderie of La Pulga and wanted to bring agave spirits to the market that embodied the community.

But they’re not just setting up shop; they’re actively investing in the area, revitalizing the market to support and uplift the surrounding community. Their commitment goes beyond business, focusing on preserving the rich cultural heritage that La Pulga represents while fostering growth and opportunity within the community.

“‘The Spirit We Share’ is really our mantra and what we live by. Obviously, the alcohol is a spirit, but there’s also the spirit of togetherness, support and camaraderie that we as people, our circles and our community embodies, ” Slaughter said.

Letting the agave speak for itself

La Pulga Tequilas consist of 100% blue weber agave and are additive free. Unlike many brands that take shortcuts to speed up the process or alter the flavor, La Pulga remains committed to authenticity. While some companies may add caramel coloring or oak flavor to make a blanco resemble a reposado, or introduce sugar or glycerin to alter the taste and texture, La Pulga chooses to maintain purity, avoiding any additives that could compromise the integrity of their tequila.

“It’s pretty common to add all of these things. Many people are really focusing on their health now and making sure they’re not putting any extra unnecessary chemicals in their body,” Castillo said. “There’s an additive-free growth in the industry that’s been occurring as more companies are realizing how undesirable it is to add all of those additives.”

Mexican creatures showcase symbolic meaning on every bottle

Additionally, they’ve incorporated the Mexican heritage of the tequila’s distributor into every bottle design. Though Fort Worth-based, the tequila itself is created in Jalisco, Mexico, like most traditional tequila is. Each La Pulga bottle is decorated with  an alebrije, a traditional Mexican folk art animal that carries symbolic meaning. 

These vibrant, colorful creatures are often depicted as hybrids—part one animal, part another—and are believed to ward off evil spirits or bring good fortune, depending on their form.

La Pulga’s Blanco tequila, which earned an impressive score of 93 from the renowned Wine Enthusiast, features a bronco, symbolizing strength and resilience. 

Their Mezcal showcases a coyote known for adaptability and cunning, also found in San Luis Potosi fields where the agave grows, while the Reposado is adorned with a bull, highlighting the deep ties between Mexico and the stockyards of Fort Worth. 

The Añejo bottle features a stag, a nod to the high desert hunt. Each animal was carefully selected for its cultural significance, adding layers of meaning to every bottle.

The Official Tequila of the Horned Frogs

In keeping with tradition, the founders crafted a unique alebrije design featuring the TCU Athletics Horned Frog, a symbol of strength, luck, and goodwill. This special design celebrates their partnership with TCU on the nearly sold-out limited edition release of the Horned Frog Bottle of La Pulga Blanco Tequila.

Of the partnership, De La Torre said, “La Pulga tequilas and mezcal are distilled and bottled in Mexico, with the company based right here in Fort Worth, a city we’re privileged to call home. TCU is a longstanding source of pride in Fort Worth, and cheering on the Frogs at TCU sporting events is a way of life here – so this partnership is the perfect way to reinforce our camaraderie and support for our shared Fort Worth community.”

As part of La Pulga’s sponsorship of TCU Athletics, the brand will have a presence in the clubs and suites at Amon G. Carter Stadium during football season and the Stuart Family Courtside Club at Schollmaier Arena for basketball games. 

They’ve also created signature TCU-themed cocktails, the Riff Ram Rita and Riff Ram Ranch Water, which will be available at the stadium, arena, and several local bars and restaurants near TCU.

As La Pulga Spirits continues to honor its heritage and commitment to quality, it’s clear that its dedication to traditional tequila-making shines through in every bottle. 

The brand not only celebrates the essence of tequila but also invites you to experience it in your own home. To elevate your next gathering or sample the flavors of La Pulga, we’re sharing the recipes for the Riff Ram Rita and Riff Ram Ranch Water for your enjoyment.

Be on the lookout for additional exciting things from the brand to come soon, including the newly-released Sotol, crafted from 100% wild Dasylirion plant that thrives in the high deserts of Northern Mexico.

Cheers to savoring the spirit of Fort Worth!