Q&A with Rikki Kelly

Q&A with Rikki Kelley 

Founder of EGO Tequila 

Q1: What inspired you to create EGO Tequila? 

I wanted to create something that went beyond a drink — something that embodied confidence, authenticity, and connection. For me, tequila has always been about bringing people together, but I saw too many brands cutting corners. I knew there was space for a tequila that honored tradition while delivering a clean, smooth experience people could be proud to share. That vision became EGO. 

Q2: The name “EGO” is bold. What does it mean to you? 

EGO isn’t arrogance. It’s self-assurance. It’s knowing who you are and being comfortable in it. When someone orders EGO at a bar, they don’t need to justify their choice — the tequila speaks for itself. That kind of quiet confidence is what we wanted the brand to stand for. 

Q3: How does EGO stand apart from other tequilas? 

Most people’s first memories of tequila aren’t great — shots at a frat party, harsh taste, and the after-effects that made them swear it off. EGO is not that tequila. 

Our story is about doing things differently. EGO is properly matured and always additive-free, which means you get the true taste of agave without the bite, burn, or shortcuts. This isn’t about gimmicks. It’s about giving people a tequila they can savor — smooth, clean, and crafted for those who appreciate quality and discovery. With EGO, you can feel confident in your choice, whether you’re ordering at a bar or hosting at home. 

Q4: The brand was founded in Fort Worth, but the tequila is distilled in Jalisco. How do those two places shape EGO? 

It’s the best of both worlds. The vision for EGO was born in Fort Worth, Texas, but bringing it to life meant working closely with NOM 1414 in Jalisco. Together, we crafted a tequila that reflects the highest standards of Mexican tradition while embodying the bold, confident spirit we stand for. That collaboration is what makes EGO both authentic in its craft and unique in its character. 

Q5: Your brand mantra is “Too Good to Be Modest.” What does that mean to you? 

It means not hiding what makes you different. Our tequila has nothing to cover up — it’s clean, smooth, and true to its roots. So why be modest about it? Too Good to Be Modest is an attitude: own your choice, enjoy it proudly, and never feel the need to explain it away. 

Q6: How do you prefer to drink EGO? 

That’s the beauty of EGO — it fits the moment. Personally, I love it straight, because it’s that good on its own. When I’m winding down, I’ll sip it neat or over a rock. And when I’m hosting, I enjoy it in a simple cocktail, like a Paloma or Margarita, where the tequila shines through. However you drink it, you should feel like you’ve made a choice you’re proud of. 

Q7: When people raise a glass of EGO, what do you want them to feel? 

Confidence. That’s the core of EGO. I want people to feel assured in what they’re drinking, connected to the people they’re with, and excited to discover the true taste of tequila. 

Q8: What excites you most about the future of EGO? 

I’m excited to grow a community of people who appreciate tequila the way it was meant to be — honest, bold, and authentic. EGO is still at the beginning of its journey, and I’m thrilled to see more people discover that tequila can be something worth celebrating in a new way. 

EDITORIAL VERSION  

Q&A with Rikki Kelley, Founder of EGO Tequila 

A Vision Brought to Life 

Rikki Kelley founded EGO Tequila to create more than a drink. Her mission: bring people together over a tequila that celebrates authenticity, confidence, and connection. Distilled at NOM 1414 in the highlands of Jalisco and born in Fort Worth, Texas, EGO is the perfect balance of heritage and bold vision. 

Q&A 

Q1: What inspired you to create EGO Tequila? 

I wanted to create something that went beyond a drink — something that embodied confidence, authenticity, and connection. For me, tequila has always been about bringing people together, but I saw too many brands cutting corners. I knew there was space for a tequila that honored tradition while delivering a clean, smooth experience people could be proud to share. That vision became EGO. 

Q2: The name “EGO” is bold. What does it mean to you? 

EGO isn’t arrogance. It’s self-assurance. It’s knowing who you are and being comfortable in it. When someone orders EGO at a bar, they don’t need to justify their choice — the tequila speaks for itself. That kind of quiet confidence is what we wanted the brand to stand for. 

Q3: How does EGO stand apart from other tequilas? 

Most people’s first memories of tequila aren’t great — shots at a frat party, harsh taste, and the after-effects that made them swear it off. EGO is not that tequila. Our story is about doing things differently. EGO is properly matured and always additive-free, which means you get the true taste of agave without the bite, burn, or shortcuts. This isn’t about gimmicks. It’s about giving people a tequila they can savor — smooth, clean, and crafted for those who appreciate quality and discovery. With EGO, you can feel confident in your choice, whether you’re ordering at a bar or hosting at home. 

Q4: The brand was founded in Fort Worth, but the tequila is distilled in Jalisco. How do those two places shape EGO? 

It’s the best of both worlds. The vision for EGO was born in Fort Worth, Texas, but bringing it to life meant working closely with NOM 1414 in Jalisco. Together, we crafted a tequila that reflects the highest standards of Mexican tradition while embodying the bold, confident spirit we stand for. That collaboration is what makes EGO both authentic in its craft and unique in its character. 

Q5: Your brand mantra is “Too Good to Be Modest.” What does that mean to you? 

It means not hiding what makes you different. Our tequila has nothing to cover up — it’s clean, smooth, and true to its roots. So why be modest about it? Too Good to Be Modest is an attitude: own your choice, enjoy it proudly, and never feel the need to explain it away. 

Q6: How do you prefer to drink EGO? 

That’s the beauty of EGO — it fits the moment. Personally, I love it straight, because it’s that good on its own. When I’m winding down, I’ll sip it neat or over a rock. And when I’m hosting, I enjoy it in a simple cocktail, like a Paloma or Margarita, where the tequila shines through. However you drink it, you should feel like you’ve made a choice you’re proud of. 

Q7: When people raise a glass of EGO, what do you want them to feel? 

Confidence. That’s the core of EGO. I want people to feel assured in what they’re drinking, connected to the people they’re with, and excited to discover the true taste of tequila. 

Q8: What excites you most about the future of EGO? 

I’m excited to grow a community of people who appreciate tequila the way it was meant to be — honest, bold, and authentic. EGO is still at the beginning of its journey, and I’m thrilled to see more people discover that tequila can be something worth celebrating in a new way.