By Carlos, Producer of Palomo
Palomo wasn’t born as a commercial project. From its earliest steps it became a way of life, one that encompassed our personal, family, and regional growth around mezcal. Over time I came to understand that Palomo doesn’t just represent me; it represents my family, and as it has grown, it has also become a point of reference for my community and for Oaxaca. For us, Palomo means family. We are all recognized and represented in this mezcal, and each member owns a part of it. It is a shared treasure, a bond that unites us and that we take on with responsibility. That family dynamic also shapes the way we work. Solidarity emerges naturally: we support each other, share decisions, and push this path forward together. The same happens in my community, where agave and mezcal connect people and help them move ahead. In Matatlán, more than half the town participates in mezcal production, and one hundred percent depends on agave. Daily collaboration isn’t an idea; it’s a reality that sustains our lives. Palomo is born from that.
When you enjoy what you do, things flow without becoming a burden. For me, carrying the brand forward is not a weight; it is a consequence of passion, commitment, and the conviction to do things well. That way of working is reflected in every part of the process.
The Spirit That Sustains Us
There are also values behind every bottle, even if they aren’t always visible: honesty, loyalty, honor, and respect. These principles are present from the field to the glass. Palomo is, above all, an authentic spirit. It doesn’t follow trends or aspire to represent luxury. It shares tradition, culture, and a piece of our identity with those who taste it. There’s a popular saying that perfectly describes what mezcal means to us: “For every ill, mezcal; for every good, as well.” That phrase captures the relationship a mezcalero has with his craft and with his history. The passion we have for mezcal helps us face any situation.
Today, Palomo is a point of pride in my community. It represents the possibility for small and independent brands to succeed, no matter where they come from. For me, agave is the beginning of every mezcalero’s life. It is essential to our dreams and symbolizes development, unity, life, friendship, health, and work. Mezcal is an essential part of daily life in Matatlán. It is present in celebrations, mayordomías, baptisms, birthdays, and funerals. It is a communal meeting point, a way for us to come together, reconcile, and celebrate. Being Matateco is a source of pride. I come from a town of honest, hardworking, and loyal people who fight for their dreams and refuse to be underestimated by anyone or anything. That spirit is also the essence of Palomo.
