Extreme drought in Mexico threatens mezcal supply, meteorologist warns

Published 2023년 3월 24일

Tridge summary

Mexico is facing potentially severe impacts on its agave crop yields due to extremely dry and record-breaking hot conditions over the past few months, raising concerns about a possible mezcal and tequila shortage. This situation is of particular concern given the surge in global demand for these spirits, as highlighted by a significant increase in Tequila exports. Agave plants, while drought-resistant, are struggling under these extreme conditions, with farmers in Mexico experiencing rainfall levels as low as 5% of normal. The situation is expected to worsen with climate change leading to more frequent extreme dryness. Additionally, the article commends Kendal Jenner's tequila brand, 818 Spirits, for its efforts in building a community library and learning laboratory in Mexico, aimed at promoting sustainable and regenerative agriculture practices among local farmers.

Disclaimer:The above summary was generated by Tridge's proprietary AI model for informational purposes.

Original content

There are fears that recent months of extremely dry conditions in Mexico could significantly reduce agave crop production, resulting in a major mezcal shortage. Mezcal, and Tequila in particular, has boomed in recent years, with celebrity-backed brands, such as George Clooney’s Casamigos (now owned by Diageo), proving particularly popular. From January to October last year, Tequila exports reached US$3.6 billion in value, a 34.1% increase on the same period for 2021, and a testament to the growth of this market. The plant from which these spirits are made, agave, is known for its hardiness in harsh conditions, with a UC Davis study published last year suggesting that it has potential in California to be cultivated as a drought-tolerant crop. But, south of the border, recent conditions have been too extreme even for agave, and that could have a knock-on effect on your drinks cabinet. Everstream Analytics chief meteorologist Jon Davis warned of the consequences of Mexico’s recent ...

Source: Thedrinkbusiness