Emilio del Conde grew up in Tecate, crossing the U.S.-Mexico border every day for school, an experience that shaped the way he sees people, culture, and opportunity. That drive took him from sales and finance to founding Chupes Finos (importer, distributor, and more) in Carrollton, Texas. In this episode, Emilio shares how a passion for collecting mezcal turned into a partnership with Leo Garcia and Macheé Mezcal, while we dive into border culture, entrepreneurship, community, and the connections that great spirits create. It’s an honest, insightful conversation full of great stories—and one that proves Emilio is only getting started.
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Ep 382 – Alejandro Orendain: Arette Tequila, a Brand Above.
Alejandro Orendain understands numbers, travel, and agave. What started as a departure from the family business, quickly turned back into a return to the homeland. His roots in Tequila, and the inescapable pull back into the operations of Tequila Arette, bring us to his current chapter. A chapter during which, Alejandro educates many about the familial brand and ensures that his quality tequila can be easily available at everyone’s fingertips. We chat about drumming, bar anecdotes, and a whole new brand aesthetic.
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Ep 381 – David Rodriguez: The Faces of Patrón Tequila
I had the lovely privilege to visit Hacienda Patrón and explore their various production sites and methods. Beyond the opulent quarters and beautiful hospitality, I found something more intriguing: the hidden complexity of their tequila. (Which is soon to be released in an entirely new 100 Proof, tahona-crushed, blanco tequila.) Towards the middle of my stay, I had the opportunity to interview Patrón’s maestro Tequilero David Rodriguez. We chat about quality, history, learning, and his inherent scientific mind. Recorded live at Copper Bar at Hacienda Patrón.
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Ep 380 – Santos Serfaty: The Story of Zancudo Mezcal
Santos Serfaty, co-founder of Zancudo Mezcal, has traversed the world while working in many restaurants and bars. This transnational lifestyle has led to him learning many languages, and learning many lessons about life. Nomadic in ways, and tremendously ground in others, Santos has settled in Mexico City to finally find his home. Through his love of food and cocktails, Santos was introduced to mezcal and a direct path to Oaxaca. Afters years of blending, tasting, and exploring, Zancudo Mezcal was finally born. We chat drums, proofing, and design.
