21 + Salvador Picazo Chavez / La Luna Mezcal

Hey Hey Agave

21 + Salvador Picazo Chavez

La Luna Mezcal

Salvador Picazo Chavez is the founder and President of Puente Internacional and the founder of La Luna Mezcal and Gustoso Aguardiente Rum, both produced in Michoacán, Mexico.

This is the first interview we have had with a producer from Michoacán but definitely not the first conversation about the State and the mezcal produced there. Michoacán is a rich and fertile region of Mexico, where most of the Avocados consumed in the US are grown. It is home to a vibrant culinary tradition and has a history of sugar cane distillation and mezcal production.

Chava’s story and the story of La Luna is a coming home of sorts. Chava was born in California and raised in Sonoma. His father grew up on a farm in Cotija, Michoacán and his mom is from Ecatepec, Estado de Mexico. Chava was drawn back to his Father’s home town and inspired by the potential he saw within his family and his network of friends to create a brand of mezcales that would express the specific terroir of the region.

Chava explains La Luna’s evolution from purchasing distillates from one producer to building vinatas and distilling with his own team. They are currently building vinatas in Indaparapeo, Cotija and Etucuaro. We discuss the different production styles, which vary among their vinatas. We learn about the agaves of the region, both silvestre and cultivated, and discuss what the future holds for La Luna.

Check out the !Hey Hey! Agave page on our website to see pictures from our guests.

¡Hey Hey! Agave is dedicated to all things agave. Join us for conversations with industry experts, enthusiasts, producers and educators as we discuss the fascinating world of agave spirits.

¡Hey Hey! Agave is a podcast from TUYO NYC

Music: @milagroverdebk

Editing: Brittany Prater

Production: Sabrina Lessard and Gabriel Velazquez Zazueta