Our Story

Cara a Cara was born out of the realization that we need better solutions to pressing environmental and social challenges in mezcal producing communities. With a booming industry, what will these mezcal producing communities look like in 20, 30 years? The challenges are immense, but we can't stand by waiting for the perfect solution. It's time to solve real problems with practical solutions.

This project was born during the height of the global pandemic in 2020. During those days, we sought to anchor this mezcal project on a deep commitment to do good and build connectedness. Cara a Cara means face to face. That name seemed appropriate. Throughout the pandemic we saw the world go behind masks, distancing from each other. We wanted to create something that would break down those barriers and bring people back together, and inspire each other.

The two silhouettes represent the physical delineation of the roads that border the distillery, while also depicting two face silhouettes facing each other. We encourage you to read the poem at the center of the label for inspiration.

Founder’s Story

We are not celebrities, not artists, nor restaurateurs. We are not mezcal experts. In fact, we have very little to do with the alcohol industry- aside from our love and admiration for those crafting the spirit.

After years in corporate, seeing companies rise and fall, watching trends come and go, and taking part in disruptive innovations, we sought to challenge the assumptions of how mezcal is made and be change makers. We sought to create a mezcal project that goes beyond being another trend, or another “white-label” product. We do this because change is not only necessary, it is urgent.

We are curious. If you ever meet Jess you’ll know she's always asking questions, seeking to learn more. Miguel's always exploring ideas, as crazy as they may seem. We think big. This is a project, not a brand. It is a long term project, and we base our actions on a long term horizon.

Mezcal is the byproduct of the work we aim to do in the community and planet.

Our mission

We are on a mission to change the way mezcal is produced and sourced. To create environmentally friendly and socially responsible practices that we can pass on to others in order to have a horizontal impact among mezcal-producing communities. All while being open about our efforts and concentrating on sustainable water use.

The Mezcal Family

Bacilio

Meet Bacilio. He’s the master distiller, who learned at the hands of Isabel’s father. Since taking on the responsibility to continue the family’s tradition, he’s guided the family towards embracing change. If not at the distillery, you’ll find him in the “rancho” taking care of the agaves, the land, and the horses.

Isabel

Isabel inherited her dad’s passion for mezcal. She is the glue that holds everyone together. Jumping in to help with anything from setting up the still, to documenting and organizing the finances. You’ll always find her surrounded by family, helping out those around her.

Octavio

Octavio is passionate about the environment. He is always eager to go on a hike through the mountains and share childhood stories about growing up in nature. He worked hard to rebuild the distillery with his own hands. Fun fact – he also dabbles in music and is part of a local band.

WHAT’S NEXT?

We have drafted the plans for a wastewater treatment system at the distillery. This will help us create a closed loop system to reuse that water at the distillery for irrigation and cleaning purposes.

We are working on launching a second mezcal expression and are working with Maestro Bacilio to ensure the agaves that we select are fully matured and with a replantation plan.