By Valerie Milano
Beverly Hills, CA (The Hollywood Times) 9/10/25 – If there’s no rest for the wicked, then I must be in the company of the truly wicked. Just a year and a half ago, I found myself on a whirlwind press junket in Guadalajara, invited by Ali Lasky and her team at The Influence, the powerhouse agency behind El Cristiano Tequila. That weekend became a masterclass in craftsmanship, culture, and community, three words that define El Cristiano.
Fast forward to last night, when my sister and I were once again welcomed into the El Cristiano world at the Mezcal Global Launch hosted in the elegant Beverly Hills home of founders Karan and Priyanka Khanna. The evening proved that while the brand is expanding into mezcal, its heart remains the same: authenticity, hospitality, and purpose.
That Guadalajara trip began with a mid-morning flight from LAX and a warm welcome by Priyanka and Karan Khanna. From tequila tastings at the airport (yes, Priyanka met us with shots!) to curated snacks from Carrera Café, we were treated like family from the start.
Across the weekend, we explored the Jalisco Highlands, touring agave fields and distilleries, and even visiting Casa Hogar Portal de Belen Del Nino Jesus orphanage, supported by Fundación El Cristiano. The foundation’s efforts, from school supplies to laptops to shoes, underscored that El Cristiano is not just about spirits; it’s about legacy and giving back.
One highlight of that trip was the unveiling of OCHO, the rare eight-year Extra Añejo, aged underground and in barrel, retailing at $800. As Karan Khanna told us, “Our tequila isn’t just delicious; it’s a celebration of Mexico, distilled into every drop.”
That weekend showed me that El Cristiano is built on more than agave. It’s built on passion, generosity, and community.
Last night’s launch was a continuation of that story. Guests were invited to indulge in premium mezcal & tequila tastings, handcrafted tacos and culinary delights, and surprise experiences throughout the evening inc. the fabulous fire-eater. The vibe? Pure joy, good vibes and great company filling the Khannas’ home with laughter, conversation, and clinking glasses.
The mezcal itself was a revelation. Instead of heavy-handed smoke, El Cristiano Mezcal offered refinement: crisp mineral notes, citrus brightness, and a silky, elegant finish. It’s mezcal crafted for versatility, equally suited for sipping neat or starring in cocktails.
What ties both experiences together, Guadalajara and Los Angeles, is the careful, personal touch of The Influence. Ali Lasky and her team don’t just arrange events; they create immersive journeys that connect media, tastemakers, and community to the very soul of the brand.
From the agave fields of Jalisco to the glow of a Los Angeles evening, El Cristiano continues to chart a path that feels both luxurious and purposeful. It is a brand that celebrates not only fine spirits but also culture, connection, and care.
For me, the journey from Guadalajara to Los Angeles has been more than professional coverage, it’s been a chance to watch a brand grow, evolve, and stay true to itself.
