When it comes to celebrity ventures into the alcohol industry, few have gained as much attention as Kendall Jenner Tequila—better known as 818 Tequila. Since its launch in 2021, the brand has become a hot topic in both the business and entertainment worlds.
From its ownership to its rising worth and even the meaning behind its name, fans and critics alike continue to ask: Is 818 Tequila owned by Kendall Jenner? How much is 818 Tequila worth? Why did Kendall call her tequila 818?
This detailed guide explores everything you need to know about Kendall Jenner Tequila, from its origins and growth to controversies and future prospects.
Is 818 Tequila Owned by Kendall Jenner?
Yes—Kendall Jenner Tequila is truly owned by Kendall Jenner. Unlike many celebrity-backed drinks where stars are just the face of the brand, Kendall actively participated in the creation of 818 Tequila. She reportedly spent almost four years perfecting the formula before introducing it to the public in May 2021.
Production takes place at the La Cofradía distillery in Jalisco, Mexico—a facility with a long history of crafting premium tequilas. This ensures that 818 is rooted in authentic Mexican tequila-making traditions while carrying the influence of Kendall’s personal style and brand identity.
Her ownership and creative control over Kendall Jenner Tequila highlight her entrepreneurial drive, making it much more than just another celebrity endorsement.
How Much Is Kendall Jenner Tequila Worth?
The financial success of Kendall Jenner Tequila has been remarkable since its debut.
Revenue Growth
In its first year, 818 Tequila sold over 136,000 cases, a massive achievement for a new brand. By 2025, experts estimate annual gross revenue will exceed $55 million, with profit margins of 20–25%. This would amount to around $11–13 million in annual profit.
Valuation Estimates
Industry analysts place the market value of Kendall Jenner Tequila between $300 million and $600 million. If a major spirits company acquires the brand in the future—as often happens in this industry—Kendall’s stake could potentially bring her $90–240 million personally.
Kendall’s Personal Earnings
Reports suggest Kendall Jenner may have earned $25 million from 818 Tequila in 2022 alone, with brand revenues climbing past $100 million at that time. While exact figures vary, it’s clear that Kendall Jenner Tequila is one of her most successful ventures.
Why Did Kendall Call Her Tequila 818?
The name “818” is deeply personal to Kendall. It represents the area code of Calabasas and the San Fernando Valley in California, where she grew up.
By calling it Kendall Jenner Tequila 818, she tied the brand to her roots and identity. This storytelling element adds authenticity and relatability. Instead of choosing a flashy, unrelated name, Kendall picked something that resonates with her personal journey and the place that shaped her.
The simplicity of the name “818” also makes the tequila stand out—short, memorable, and symbolic.
What Makes Kendall Jenner Tequila Unique?
1. Sustainability and Responsibility
In 2022, Kendall Jenner Tequila became a B Corp Certified company. This prestigious certification recognizes businesses committed to sustainability, ethical production, and social responsibility. 818 Tequila’s focus on eco-friendly practices sets it apart in the crowded celebrity spirits market.
2. Premium Flavor and Craft
818 Tequila offers Blanco, Reposado, and Añejo varieties. Crafted using traditional brick ovens for agave cooking and aged in oak barrels, Kendall Jenner Tequila is praised for its smoothness and versatility. It appeals to both tequila enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike.
3. Celebrity Influence and Marketing Power
Kendall Jenner’s global fame plays a massive role in the success of 818. With over 290 million Instagram followers, her posts and campaigns give Kendall Jenner Tequila unmatched exposure, helping it compete with long-established tequila brands.
Controversies Around Kendall Jenner Tequila
Like many celebrity brands, Kendall Jenner Tequila has faced criticism.
Cultural Appropriation Concerns
Some critics accused Kendall of cultural appropriation, questioning whether it was appropriate for a U.S. celebrity to profit from a product tied so closely to Mexican heritage. These debates became particularly heated when 818 first launched.
Trademark Dispute
Additionally, Tequila 512, a Texas-based company, sued 818 Tequila over alleged similarities in branding and packaging. While the lawsuit didn’t derail the brand’s momentum, it highlighted the legal challenges of entering a competitive industry.
The Future of Kendall Jenner Tequila
Despite controversies, Kendall Jenner Tequila continues to expand rapidly. With distribution growing worldwide and increasing recognition in the premium spirits market, the brand is on track to become one of the top-selling celebrity tequilas.
Given its growth rate, many experts believe 818 Tequila could follow in the footsteps of George Clooney’s Casamigos, which sold for $1 billion in 2017. If that happens, Kendall Jenner’s tequila empire could become one of the most lucrative celebrity alcohol ventures in history.
Conclusion
To answer the big questions:
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Is 818 Tequila owned by Kendall Jenner? Yes, it is her brand and she is actively involved in its creation.
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How much is Kendall Jenner Tequila worth? Estimates range from $300 million to $600 million, with revenues climbing each year.
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Why did Kendall call her tequila 818? It’s named after the area code of her hometown in California, making it personal and memorable.
Ultimately, Kendall Jenner Tequila is more than a celebrity business move—it’s a blend of authenticity, smart branding, and rapid financial success. As the brand continues to grow, it cements Kendall Jenner’s place as not just a supermodel but a savvy entrepreneur.
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