Del Maguey

Del Maguey was founded in 1995 by Ron Cooper, an internationally renowned artist who became captivated by mezcal during visits to Oaxaca. Cooper's vision was to introduce the world to the exquisite diversity and craftsmanship of mezcal, an often misunderstood and underappreciated spirit at the time. His pioneering efforts helped establish mezcal as a popular choice in international markets, particularly in the United States. From its inception, Del Maguey focused on single-village production, ensuring that each mezcal would reflect the unique characteristics and tradition of its origin. This approach not only provided authenticity but also supported local communities by prioritizing relationships with small-scale farmers. Over the years, Del Maguey has expanded its offerings to include various mezcal expressions from different villages, showcasing the versatility of agave and the artistry of the families producing these spirits. A key milestone in Del Maguey’s history came in recent years when the brand celebrated its 30th anniversary, marking three decades of championing quality mezcal. Moreover, in a significant business move, a majority stake of the distillery was acquired by Pernod Ricard, allowing for enhanced global reach while maintaining the brand's commitment to tradition and craftsmanship. Continually innovating, Del Maguey also launched its VIDA collection, aimed at introducing newcomers to the mezcal landscape through accessible and delightful expressions. Ron Cooper remains at the helm, guiding Del Maguey into new territories while maintaining its innovative edge and dedication to quality.

Del Maguey is located in the picturesque region of Oaxaca, Mexico, specifically at C. Macedonio Alcalá 403, RUTA INDEPENDENCIA, Centro, 68000 Ejido del Centro. The geography of Oaxaca plays a pivotal role in the character and complexity of the mezcals produced by Del Maguey. The region’s diverse microclimates, rich volcanic soils, and abundant rainfall create ideal growing conditions for various agave species. Each of the villages from which Del Maguey sources its agave has distinct environmental characteristics that influence the flavor profiles of the spirits produced there. Oaxaca’s mountainous terrain contributes to the varying altitudes found throughout the region, with mezcal production often taking place at elevations that enhance the agave’s natural sugars and flavors. The proximity to the Sierra Madre mountains provides not only a stunning backdrop but also a vital source of pure spring water used in the distillation process, adding to the overall quality of the mezcal. This geographical richness is key to producing mezcals that are more than just spirits; they are reflective of the land, culture, and artisanal techniques of the families that craft them. The unique soil compositions, varying climates, and traditional distillation methods practiced in these ancestral villages help create the distinctive characteristics that set Del Maguey mezcals apart in the competitive spirits industry. By engaging directly with local farmers and honoring their techniques, Del Maguey ensures that each bottle represents not just a drink, but a vibrant story of the land and its people.