The Mexican spirits industry has a rich history, but a new wave of women leaders is bringing fresh perspectives, innovation, and a commitment to craftsmanship. These pioneers are not only breaking barriers but are setting new standards for quality, sustainability, and creativity. Among them are Bertha González Nieves of Casa Dragones, Hillhamn Salome of Gin Condesa, Alessandra Camino of Acrónimo Spirits, Ana Sofía Oroz of Santo Cuviso, and Izzy Ortega and Lisa Mulligan, co-founders of Speed Rack Mexico. Together, they are redefining what Mexican spirits can achieve on the global stage.
Bertha González Nieves – Casa Dragones
Bertha González Nieves, co-founder and CEO of Casa Dragones, is a legend in the world of tequila. Known for crafting small-batch, ultra-premium tequilas, Bertha has elevated tequila to a luxury experience. As the first woman certified as a “Maestra Tequilera,” she is a symbol of excellence and perseverance, continuously inspiring women in the industry.
Hillhamn Salomé – Xila Licor
Hillhamn Salome is the visionary behind Xila, a unique Mexican spiced liqueur that blends the bold flavors of ancho chile, hibiscus, and cinnamon with more traditional ingredients like pineapple and clove. Xila reflects Mexico’s vibrant cultural and culinary heritage, offering a complex and aromatic profile that stands out in the spirits industry. Hillhamn’s innovative approach has brought Mexican flavors to the forefront, and her work with Xila has helped redefine the global perception of what Mexican liqueurs can be. Her creativity and dedication have made Xila a symbol of modern Mexican craftsmanship.
Alessandra Camino – Acrónimo Spirits
As the CEO and founder of Acrónimo Spirits, Alessandra Camino is transforming the way the world views sotol. While sotol has long been overshadowed by tequila and mezcal, Alessandra is positioning it as the next premium Mexican spirit. Her brand features a fresh and bold flavor profile that appeals to younger audiences, and her dedication to sustainability, including collaboration with researchers at the Universidad Autónoma de Chihuahua, shows her commitment to preserving the sotol plant for future generations.
Ana Sofía Oroz – Santo Cuviso
Ana Sofía Oroz, co-founder of Santo Cuviso, has become a strong voice in the world of bacanora, a spirit native to Sonora, Mexico. Santo Cuviso specializes in small-batch bacanora, a cousin of mezcal, but with its own unique characteristics. Ana Sofía has focused on promoting the cultural heritage of bacanora, working closely with local producers and emphasizing traditional production methods. Her work has helped bring bacanora to a broader audience, shining a light on a lesser-known spirit and celebrating the region’s heritage.
Izzy Ortega & Lisa Mulligan – Speed Rack Mexico
Izzy Ortega and Lisa Mulligan are revolutionizing the mixology scene in Mexico through Speed Rack, an all-female bartending competition that highlights women’s talent in the cocktail industry. By bringing Speed Rack to Mexico, they have created a platform that empowers women mixologists, pushing the boundaries of creativity and professionalism behind the bar. Their efforts not only celebrate women’s accomplishments in mixology but also encourage the next generation of female bartenders to thrive in an industry historically dominated by men.
Pioneers for the Next Generation
These women are not only revolutionizing their respective spirits but are also paving the way for future generations. Their leadership and innovation reflect a broader movement toward diversity, sustainability, and craftsmanship in the spirits industry.
As the Mexican spirits market continues to expand globally, the impact of leaders like Bertha González Nieves, Hillhamn Salome, Alessandra Camino, Ana Sofía Oroz, Izzy Ortega, and Lisa Mulligan is reshaping the narrative. They serve as powerful role models, showing that passion, creativity, and a dedication to excellence can transcend the traditional limits of the industry.
