Erstwhile Mezcal Espadin

Founded by Yuan Ji and Kevin J Brown, Erstwhile is a boutique importer of mezcal based in Brooklyn, NY. The company is mission-driven, placing autonomy and fair trade at the center of their business. Producers are treated as partners rather than employees; they are granted full autonomy over what they make and how and are compensated fairlyno bargaining or exclusivity contracts. Erstwhile seeks out small, independent family-owned producers (chosen for quality execution of their chosen style rather than volume potential) to bring their craft to international markets for the first time with an emphasis on empowering women as well as other underrepresented groups.While Erstwhile is known for its mezcal made from wild, more exotic varietals of agave, their award-winning espadin ranks among the best weve come across. Its zesty vegetal (fresh basil and jalapeno) notes and distinctive finish (dried herbs and cayenne heat) shows how uncommonly delicious "common" espadin can be.