Mezcal Tosba: Reviving Tradition and Empowering Community

Mezcal Tosba: Reviving Tradition and Empowering Community

Mezcal Tosba is more than just a mezcal brand; it is a story of two cousins who wanted to make a difference in their community. Founded by Jaime and Diego, both from San Cristóbal Lachirioag in Oaxaca, Mexico, Mezcal Tosba is a micro business that has brought new life to a disappearing tradition of mezcal production in the Sierra Norte district of Villa Alta.

Mezcal Tosba began when Jaime and Diego were living as migrants in Silicon Valley, California, and was inspired by the entrepreneurial spirit around them. They were deeply concerned about the increasing migration from their home region of Cajonos-Villa Alta in the Sierra Norte mountains and decided to do something about it.

They wanted to create a business that would not only rescue the disappearing tradition of mezcal production but also bring economic opportunity to the area. And that is how Mezcal Tosba was born.

The name “TOSBA” means “only one” in the Zapotec language of Oaxaca. This reflects the consensus-driven decision-making process deeply ingrained in the ancient Zapotec traditions still alive in their village. The founders of Mezcal Tosba wanted their brand to represent their commitment to the Zapotec way of life and the region’s culture.

They started planting agaves in 2000 and gradually increased the number of plants as they waited patiently for them to grow and mature. Meanwhile, they worked various jobs in Silicon Valley to support themselves. Over time, they became very involved in promoting mezcal and witnessed the beginning of a mezcal boom that has since exploded with successful brands.

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After many trials and errors, they proudly bring distinctive mezcal from their estate-grown agaves. Their journey constantly evolves as they further develop their ranch, operations, and region. They are committed to the Zapotec way of life and worship the land, the water, and their fellow man.

Mezcal Tosba is more than just a business; it is a testament to the power of community, tradition, and resilience. Through their passion for mezcal making, Jaime and Diego have brought new life to their community and given the world a taste of Oaxaca’s ancient culture and traditions.

Mezcal Tosba: Reviving Tradition and Empowering Community

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