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 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.
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Ep 327 – Ansley Coale: The Long and Winding Road
The massive career of Ansley Coale can’t adequately be captured in a mere 60 minutes, but we try. Ansley created Hanger One vodka, Germain Robin Brandy, and all of the amazing brands found at Craft Distillers A once professor turned spirits producer, Ansley lives so much in the moment that sometimes the brilliant achievements behind him are just a flash of a memory. With his new project Communidad, he dives even further into the notion that Mezcal is closer to its producers and terroir than any other spirit in the world. At 80 years old, the hits aren’t stopping, and new projects are continually on the horizon. We chat 1950’s,…
