Ancient Alcohol After Hours: History of Agave Spirits

Join two James Beard Award-winning authors for a talk-and-tasting event tracing agave’s journey from ancient use to modern mezcal.

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Long before mezcal and tequila reached bars around the world, agave sustained communities across Mexico as a source of food, fiber, medicine, and ritual. Penn archaeobotanist Dr. Chantel White reveals what ancient plant remains tell us about wild harvesting and early cultivation and use, and surprising evidence of its presence in 18th-century Philadelphia.

David Suro Piñera, a leading advocate for ethical agave production, will explore how agave spirits are crafted—from Indigenous production traditions and the latest research into their origins to the environmental and social challenges facing traditional producers today.

Then, Danny Childs of Slow Drinks will introduce the diverse styles of agave spirits before leading a guided tasting featuring a mezcal with an extraordinary story, alongside a specialty agave cocktail.

Whether you're a curious newcomer or a seasoned enthusiast, you'll leave with a richer appreciation for the people, plants, and traditions behind every pour.