In the heart of Oaxaca, particularly within the Zapotec region of Santiago Matatlán, a rich legacy of mezcal production thrives. For Isabel Santiago, this journey is deeply personal, one steeped in familial tradition. Growing up amidst sprawling agave fields, she inherited not just a craft but a lineage marked by dedication. Her great-grandfather, Valente Santiago, toiled in these fields, laying the foundation of knowledge that cascaded down through generations. Isabel’s pride as the first woman distiller in her family defies conventional norms, shaped significantly by the encouragement of her father, who dismantled barriers of machismo. Isabel’s story resonates with empowerment as she embraces her role not only as a distiller but as a pioneer for women in the industry.
The narrative takes a significant turn when Diego de la Vega, a law graduate with a thirst for his heritage, crosses paths with Isabel. After living in Los Angeles and yearning for the authentic tastes of his youth, de la Vega was driven to find a mezcal that met his high standards. His quest for quality led him to the Santiago family, where Isabel’s expertise captivated him. Together, they conceptualized ZOMOZ Mezcal, a brand that embodies their collective cultural pride. This partnership illuminates the profound connection between diaspora and authenticity, as they aim to cultivate a brand that goes beyond mere business—it’s a celebration of identity and roots.
At the core of ZOMOZ Mezcal is a commitment to quality and sustainability. The agave espadin, sourced from the Santiago family’s certified organic plantation, is nurtured for at least seven years, reflecting the meticulous attention required to create exceptional mezcal. The traditional methods employed in production—from slow roasting the agave in conical pits to crushing it with a stone tahona—preserve the essence of authenticity. Each step is steeped in cultural significance, paying homage to ancestral practices while integrating modern distillation techniques that Isabel has fine-tuned.
ZOMOZ doesn’t just offer a product; it delivers an experience curated by the elements of nature. The careful fermentation process, which varies with weather conditions, alongside double distillation, ensures a unique flavor profile. De la Vega emphasizes that the brand is not merely another label in the saturated mezcal market. Instead, ZOMOZ stands as a symbol of community and heritage, echoing the shared stories of Mexicans, immigrants, and their pursuit of identity in a contemporary landscape.
ZOMOZ Mezcal transcends its function as a beverage; it embodies a cultural renaissance. De la Vega notes the rise of appreciation for Mexican artistry, food, and drink on a global stage, positioning their brand as a vessel celebrating this vibrancy. The name ZOMOZ, an innovative play on “somos” (meaning “we are”), encapsulates the philosophy behind the brand—a collective identity that speaks to the essence of being Mexican.
They have eschewed the typical celebrity endorsements, opting instead to elevate their cultural narrative as the star. This unorthodox approach has proven effective as they navigate the complexities of branding, choosing authenticity over artifice. ZOMOZ serves as a reminder that the real celebrity is the labor of love poured into each bottle, capturing the spirit of those who have dedicated their lives to the craft of mezcal.
As ZOMOZ Mezcal gains accolades—including multiple awards at prestigious spirits competitions—a new conversation around mezcal unfolds. De la Vega and Isabel aim to transform public perception, showcasing mezcal as approachable and versatile, rather than an intimidating spirit reserved for connoisseurs. They’re curating a blend that is “smooth, refreshing, and friendly,” inviting a diverse audience to explore the depth and complexity of mezcal without losing its intrinsic character.
Both Isabel and De la Vega share a vision—bringing together a team that shares a mosaic of backgrounds but converges upon a central goal: to honor their roots and herald the story of mezcal as a celebration of familial ties and cultural heritage. As they navigate this modern renaissance of Mexican culture, ZOMOZ stands firm, proudly proclaiming, “We are Mexican,” while inviting the world to experience the rich tapestry of their traditions.
In the fast-evolving landscape of artisanal spirits, ZOMOZ Mezcal emerges not merely as a product but as a profound expression of cultural pride and familial devotion. Through Isabel Santiago’s craftsmanship and Diego de la Vega’s vision, they encapsulate what it means to celebrate heritage authentically. Each sip of ZOMOZ carries with it the weight of history, a taste of home forged through resilience, and a beacon of tradition illuminating paths forward in an ever-changing world.
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