Manojo Mezcal: Enrique Olvera’s Celebration of Oaxacan Heritage in a Bottle

Manojo Mezcal has officially made its debut, co-founded by renowned Mexican chef Enrique Olvera. With this brand, Olvera continues his mission to elevate Mexico and its rich culture, a pursuit that has defined his illustrious career.

The brand launched with an exquisite Espadín expression, crafted in the picturesque region of San Luis del Río, Oaxaca. Collaborating closely with mezcalero couple Joel Velasco and Felicitas Hernández—who bring over 50 years of experience in mezcal production—Olvera and his co-founders, Alex Ferzan, Gonzalo Gout, Thomas McDonald, and Nes Rueda, have meticulously crafted a spirit that embodies the essence of the region.

The name “Manojo” cleverly combines the Spanish words “mano” (hand) and “ojo” (eye), symbolizing a personal touch in the creation process. It translates to “a bunch” in English, reflecting the abundance of friendships and joyful moments that great mezcal can inspire.

Manojo Mezcal’s Espadín is produced using agave plants that are seven to nine years old, a deliberate choice that yields a product perfectly suited for Olvera's vision. This mezcal is designed to be enjoyed in the traditional Oaxacan way—sipped with a slice of orange and a sprinkle of sal de gusano (worm salt)—or used as a versatile ingredient in cocktails.

The flavor profile is bright and fresh, marked by complex notes of pear, green herbs, and an innate minerality, culminating in a crisp yet smooth finish. Each sip is a testament to the meticulous crafting process, which begins with harvesting the mature agave hearts, or piñas. These are cooked in underground pits to develop their rich flavors, ground with a traditional horse-pulled tahona, fermented in open-air vats, and distilled in copper stills using pure water from the nearby Rio Hormiga Colorada.

“Manojo Mezcal is meant to be enjoyed with friends, a celebration of life and our rich cultural heritage,” says Olvera. “We’re incredibly proud to present our first product, an Espadín that’s versatile and easy to drink.”

Manojo Mezcal is now available in the United States at ManojoMezcal.com and at select fine retailers across the country. With its release, Olvera and his team invite everyone to experience the vibrant spirit of Oaxaca, one sip at a time.