Agave is better known in Mexico as maguey —a name imposed by the Spaniards who encountered the plant on the island of Puerto Rico and which comes from the Taíno language—. However, in Mesoamerica, the plant was called Metl in Nahuatl and Metzcali in Chichimec, as demonstrated by studies conducted by researcher Eduardo Sánchez Jiménez. … More Liquid Sovereignty: The Defensive Function of the Mezcal Denomination of Origin in the International Market

What did that mezcal taste like, crafted with a Filipino recipe by Indigenous hands under Spanish rule? As early as the 17th century, we know of flavorings that made this drink special: distillers mixed it with animals, fruits, and botanicals, calling them pechugas—a name tied to special celebrations. Others infused mezcal with herbs or insects for … More The Mezcal of the Old Guard: Between Clay, Barrels, and Glass, a Quick Glance at Its History and Traditions

By Eduardo Belaunzarán 📝 This is an English translation of an original Spanish article written by me, which I translated using ChatGPT for broader reach. Every April 22nd, we celebrate International Mother Earth Day. It’s a time to reflect on the many battles being fought to preserve our planet. Today, I want to focus on one … More 🌎 Mezcal and the Earth: The Environmental Cost of a Cheap Pour

Many myths about Mezcal affect the knowledge and the development of this particular spirit in Mexico and around the world. I understand that all these stories were created in the past with the intention to help the category, but today these stories are affecting the natural progress and the historic truth of Mezcal. So, my … More 45 Alcohol by Volume—The Myth