My first trip to Jalisco to study tequila took place in 2011. Two years earlier, in 2009, I had traveled to Japan to study sake production and its history. Witnessing the traditions and the intense manual labor inherent to sake brewing planted a curiosity about spirits production more broadly.

When I planned the tequila trip, I modeled it on my sake education. I engaged Experience Agave to guide the itinerary, ensuring access to distilleries, makers, and the people whose knowledge sustains the craft. The trip deepened my appreciation for the agricultural rhythms, artisanal techniques, and cultural contexts that shape Mexico’s spirits.

These photographs are from a journey that marked the beginning of a long engagement with Mexican culture and the mezcal tradition. Click through to see more images documenting that experience.

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