Portland native Clayton Szczech leveraged writing, music, and civil service to the help the community around him. But as many stories twist and turn, (add disappointment with bureaucracy and a need for new horizons into the mix) Clayton found a new sense of purpose in agave spirits. Now the founder of such great curated tours like Experience Mezcal, and Experience Tequila, he is able to help invite people into the rich culture of Mexico. And to top it off he has also founded one of the only Tequila tasting bars in Jalisco, La Cata. We chat liberty, punk rock, agave sustainability, and more.
-
-
Ep 250 – Nicola Olianas: Making the Bitter so Sweet
Nicola Olianas eats and breathes hospitality. As an Italian native, his surroundings were always rooted in food and community. The lifestyle of learning, fostering communication, and appreciating nature were at the foundation of his journey. But as it can sometimes feel limiting, his insular Italian neighborhood couldn’t satisfy Nicola’s cultural and travel inspired appetite. After studying abroad and rooting his passion for hospitality with some academic feats, the greatest handshake yet occurred: forging his relationship with the Fratelli Branca family. We all know and love Fernet, but let’s dig a little deeper. We chat fatherhood, health, hosting, and more.
-
Ep 246 – Fausto Zapata: The Creation of El Silencio Mezcal
The world of mezcal is growing in a very rapid way. The divide between bottle pricing creates many questions for consumers and bartenders alike. With all the market opportunities, what does a burgeoning brand do to captivate the market and consumers alike. Fausto Zapata, the creator and CEO of El Silencio Mezcal, used his interest in people, real estate, and culture to bring a cost-effective spirit to the market. And now, a few years later, the bottle can be spotted just about anywhere. So where does entrepreneurialism end and passion begin? We chat agave blends, terroir, family, and food.
-
Ep 245 – Alvaro Plata: The Spoils of Spain
Sherry is finally returning to favor in cocktails and drinking culture, but some of the details are foggy. The jet setting Alvaro Plata travels the world sharing the beautiful spirits and sherry’s of Gonzalez Byass. The beloved Spanish brandy and sherries are a labor of passion and years of tradition. As many generations of Alvaro’s family have worked with GB in Jerez, he continues the legacy whilst sharing sips around the world. We chat teaching, Nomad whiskey, economics, food, and the best flavor combo with Sherry.
