Distributor, educator, importer, and more. Rion Toal has dedicated many years of his life to introducing amazing spirits to others, and creating a stage for many lesser known producers. Whether with his podcast, or co-organizing efforts for Maestros Del Mezcal, he continues to dive into the roots and scientific undercurrents of agave. Recorded in downtown Oaxaca, we talk about education, family, purpose, and more
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Ep 336 – Sergio Garnier: The World Is Not Enough
Sergio Garnier has studied throughout the world to understand the inner-workings of business and operations. With a deep background in animal services and cattle ranching, the creation of a Mezcal brand seemed relatively incongruent. But an exploration of the region of Durango and utilizing the natural plants growing on his family’s ranch, Sergio created Ultramundo mezcal. The rustic, peppery, and hauntingly fruity mezcal is beyond unique and is finally making its way across the United States. Sergio and I talk about music, art, design, and NASA.
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Ep 335 – Niki Nakazawa: The Latest from NETA Spirits
Some years ago, I was able to speak with Niki Nakazawa of NETA spirits about her life, mezcal beginnings, and pop up life. Now that travel is back, tastings are back, and she makes her first trip to Austin, things are about to get good. We chat Oaxaca, rent, education, sustainability, and the beautiful town of Logoche.
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Ep 332 – Alejandro Champion: Curating a Sacred Union
To think an artistic spirit and dedication to the promotion of other’s artwork would translate into the world of Mezcal is an interesting twist. Alejandro Champion, a founder of Union Mezcal, has a life steeped in creativity. From familial roots in architecture to a discerning eye for art, Alejandro’s journey eventually led him to the world of Mezcal. From one form of art to the next, he continues to promote agave and the work of others in his gallery in CDMX. We chat film, mindsets, agave, and more.
