Oaxaca

Oaxaca, located in southern Mexico, is the heart of traditional Mezcal production, a spirit closely related to tequila. The region’s mountainous terrain, varied climate, and mineral-rich soils allow agave plants, particularly the native Espadín variety, to develop unique, complex flavors. Mezcal from Oaxaca is often celebrated for its smoky, earthy character, resulting from slow-cooking the agave in underground pits lined with wood and stone. Artisanal producers in Oaxaca follow generations-old methods, including hand-harvesting, natural fermentation, and copper or clay distillation, creating spirits that are deeply expressive of their terroir. Oaxaca’s rich cultural heritage and dedication to traditional techniques have earned it a reputation as one of Mexico’s most important and respected regions for agave spirits.