Today we’d like to introduce you to Alejandro Champion.
Alejandro, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
Me and three friends decided to create a mezcal company in 2008 because we wanted to be part of a project that represents the values of México and generates positive socio-economic progress among indigenous families.
We decided to venture into Mezcal. Why? Because it is Mexico’s purest beverage and because behind it there are hundreds of indigenous families that have been farming agave and producing mezcal as a spiritual belief. Mezcal is part of our history, it is a millenary tradition.
When we started our research by looking for producer partners in the Sierra of Oaxaca, we talked to numerous indigenous families. We tried to understand what their biggest needs and challenges were. Speaking to an old Maestro Mezcalero, which we call El VIEJO, he told us on his own words “Lo Que el mezcal y México necesitan es UNIÓN.” “What mezcal and México needs is UNIÓN.”
We realized right then and there that this had to be the philosophy of our path in Mezcal. The only way to preserve an artisanal mezcal production, a sustainable agave farming project, and a brand that grows on demand and that has a chance to generate progress is by UNITING families (Agave farmers and Mezcal producers).
Since then, that has been our mission: we unite families by empowering them to become part of our union. We support these families through financial support and distribution. As a result, they are able to start their own distilleries and activate their agricultural land.
Currently, we collaborate with 55 families across eight villages from Oaxaca. We now have distribution in five countries (Mexico, USA, Canada, UK, Spain, France). Our dream is to continue growing distribution and generate as many opportunities as we can.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Our path has had ups and downs, just like life. The one thing that has kept us always moving forward besides all obstacles is to remind us of the mission of our company.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Mezcal UNIÓN – what should we know?
My role within the company is to be the front man. I direct sales and distribution. I have walked numerous cities, knocked thousands of doors sharing our message, philosophy, and mission of our project. This is how our brand has grown in the market. Now we are a team of several ambassadors throughout the world, who believe deeply in the core of Mezcal UNIÓN.
Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
-Always keeping the feet to the ground.
-Working collectively.
-Being fair.
Pricing:
- Mezcal UNIÓN Joven, blend of Agave Espadín & Cirial – average retail price 40 usd
- Mezcal UNIÓN El Viejo, blend of Agave Espadín & Tobalá – average retail price 50 usd
Contact Info:
- Website: www.mezcalunion.com
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: @mezcalunion
- Facebook: Mezcal UNIÓN
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