The Mezcal Buzz Experience is back and evolving! In this kickoff to 2026, host Marco welcomes new official co-host Jack Ole to the mic. They reflect on their year of growth - from garage mezcal tastings to podcast interviews at major events - and set their vision for the future. Expect more community voices, mixology exploration, and authentic mezcal storytelling.Plus: they each shake up a mezcal-based cocktail and sip on some delicious bottles, including HonoriAmor Mexicano and Bozal’s Borrego ensamble.🎙️ Whether you're mezcal curious or a seasoned sipper, this episode dives deep into community, craft, collaboration, and what's next.🪅 Check out mezcalbuzz.com for glassware, apparel, and to join the community.🍹 Want to be a guest? Reach out—let’s collaborate!

In this episode of the Mezcal Buzz Experience, we sit down with Alberto Ochoa, founder of Mezcal FIRME, a brand rooted in Chicano culture, family values, and bold agave expressions. Alberto shares the origin story behind FIRME, his unique partnership with Maestro Mezcalero Jorge Aaron Mendez, and how the brand continues to evolve.We taste multiple standout expressions, including a Tobalá-Espadín Ensamble, Tepeztate, and the fan-favorite abocado con Mandarina & Cempasúchil (Marigold) batch. Plus, Alberto shares unreleased experimental creations like abocado con Mole Negro and pechuga of Wild Rabbit made in a 5-gallon still during late-night Oaxaca sessions.This episode is packed with stories of collaboration, authenticity, gatekeeping in the mezcal world, and why building community matters just as much as making great mezcal.📍 Follow Mezcal Firme: @firmemezcal🌟 Learn more at: https://firmemezcal.com🎙️ Subscribe for more episodes that tell the real story of agave spirits.INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/mezcalbuzz/​

In this episode of the Mezcal Buzz Experience, we sit down with visual artist and Mexican-American creative Eric Mancha, whose journey from Eagle Pass, Texas to Beverly Hills art galleries has been nothing short of inspiring. Eric shares how mezcal helped shape a turning point in his creative path, what it meant to paint the official artwork for Mezcal Por Siempre, and how agave symbolizes sacrifice, culture, and identity.We sip multiple traditional agave spirits—tequila from Cascahuín, mezcal from Oaxaca’s Chontal region, and wild Tepeztate—and explore how aroma, memory, and heritage tie deeply into the art of both spirits and storytelling.🌟 All proceeds from Eric's painting go to Cielo Organization, supporting migrant and Indigenous communities.📸 Follow Eric Mancha on Instagram: @manchastudio🎨 Learn more about Mezcal Por Siempre Festival: @mezcalporsiempre📍Location: Mezcal Buzz HQ, Los Angeles