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For your business

Mezcal in Retail Stores

By Adrián Villalba · 2 min read
Mezcal in Retail Stores
In short

mezcal sells in stores when shoppers understand what they are buying. Give it its own section within agave spirits, order it by profile and price, add shelf talkers with agave, origin and flavor notes, and support it with tastings on weekends and during gifting season, where state law allows.

Where to place it

  • Its own “mezcal” section within agave spirits, not mixed with tequila.
  • Entry and fast-moving labels at eye level.
  • Premium bottles in a featured spot or display case, well lit.
  • Seasonal displays for the holidays and Father's Day.

What information do shoppers need?

One simple shelf talker per product:

Detail ZUNTE example
Agave 100% Espadín
Origin San Luis del Río, Oaxaca
Flavor Herbal, citrus, hint of smoke
Suggested use Neat or in cocktails
Strength 40% ABV

Tastings that sell

  1. Small pours, served with orange.
  2. A trained person who explains agave, origin and how to sip it in 30 seconds.
  3. A simple printed cocktail recipe to take home.
  4. Always with ID checks and responsible-drinking practices, following state and local rules.

Labels in the US

Every imported mezcal needs an approved COLA from TTB and must be at least 40% ABV (27 CFR §5.148). Your distributor handles compliance; as a retailer, look for the product's category, agave and origin on the label.

How this applies to ZUNTE

ZUNTE works as an entry mezcal on the shelf thanks to its balanced profile, while ZUNTE Gold stands out on display with 24-carat gold flakes visible in the bottle: a product that also sells by sight. ZUNTE is imported by Zunte Spirits LLC, Dallas, Texas.

FAQ

How many mezcal brands should a store carry?

It depends on space; a short list that turns well is better.

Do tastings work?

Yes, especially for mezcal, since many shoppers have not tried it.

How should it be stored?

Upright, away from direct light and heat.

Sources

  • TTB. Importing Bottled Alcohol Beverages Into the United States. ttb.gov
  • eCFR. 27 CFR §5.148. ecfr.gov
  • ZUNTE Mezcal. Product sheets, zuntemezcal.com.
AV

Adrián VillalbaTW and Lead Content, Zunte Spirits.