A Local Vision: Entrepreneur Simon Cascante’s Journey with Montaukila Tequila
In the charming surroundings of Long Island’s South Fork, a young entrepreneur is making waves in the spirits industry. Simon Cascante, a native of East Hampton, embarked on a remarkable journey after deciding against college to focus on his entrepreneurial dreams. Today, he owns Montaukila, a tequila brand that’s gaining popularity among locals and visitors alike.
Cascante noticed a gap in the market where larger brands tend to oversimplify their offerings, simply laying out products with little connection to the community. His mission was different—he wanted to create a brand that resonates with the heart and soul of the East End, reminding people that there is more to this area than just a playground for celebrities and viral influencers.
“I think people started out skeptical. But now I hear all the time, ‘Wow, this is a really cool brand,’” he shared, reflecting on how community members have embraced Montaukila. The fact that he didn’t attend college or seek outside investors adds to his appeal; he’s built his brand from the ground up, which customers appreciate.
As he enters his sixth year in business, Cascante takes a hands-on approach, driving a unique “mobile cantina” van to local events and markets. This van, complete with a makeshift bar and a special tequila tap, allows him to connect with customers directly. “The sleepy town and the summer getaway that Montauk used to represent is what I wanted to maintain,” he explained, emphasizing his dedication to preserving the area’s charm.
Cascante’s journey into the spirits business began well before launching Montaukila. His teenage years spent working at local establishments—like the beloved Lobster Roll in Amagansett—taught him valuable lessons about customer service and community engagement. “I think the restaurant industry is like going to business school,” he noted, continuing to manage Lobster Roll while expanding his own brand.
The idea for Montaukila struck him in 2019 during an inspirational moment. “If you say Montauk and tequila three times fast, you get Montaukila,” he said with a chuckle. Realizing the potential of his concept, he committed to making it happen, vowing he wouldn’t regret not trying.
However, getting the tequila produced was fraught with challenges. By law, tequila must be made in Jalisco, Mexico, and finding the right distillery proved difficult. After numerous rejections from distilleries, he finally found a partnership with Casa Maestri, which happened to be familiar with Montauk through a vacation. “It was a miracle,” he recalled. “I was about ready to give up.”
With perseverance, Cascante has successfully expanded Montaukila beyond its local roots to markets in New York City and the picturesque Hudson Valley. He describes breaking into these competitive spaces as “the biggest obstacle.” Still, his hospitality background has proven invaluable, allowing him to coordinate unique events that stand out in a crowded market.
This season marks another exciting venture for Montaukila: the introduction of canned cocktails, which have become wildly successful. Cascante puts a lot of thought into the flavors, ensuring they offer a satisfying experience reminiscent of a well-crafted cocktail with the perfect salty rim. “Some of the competitors aren’t too happy already,” he remarked, clearly excited about Montaukila’s growing presence.
Cascante’s story is a powerful reminder of the strength of local entrepreneurship. By prioritizing quality, community, and creativity, he is crafting more than just tequila; he is building a legacy that reflects the true spirit of Montauk and its values. His journey encourages others to find their paths, proving that with hard work and a touch of local love, dreams can indeed become reality.
