In the Press

El Viaje introduces new agave spirit to Alabama

If you’ve never heard of raicilla, that could change very soon thanks to Andrew Bernauer. He’s bringing the lesser-known agave spirit to Alabama through Birmingham-based El Viaje. The company produces raicilla that’s handcrafted and distilled in Jalisco, Mexico. Read Article

Meet Andrew Bernauer

Consumers are becoming more educated and are gravitating to these spirits over the mass-produced products with flavorings, additives, etc. – we’re coming out as the opposite of that commercialized product, with our authentic, artisan spirits made from the heart. Read Article

Daily Inspiration: Meet Andrew Bernauer

The Mexican spirits were so complex, flavorful, unrefined, and part of their beautiful culture passed down through generations. Almost all the distillation and production processes with true “Artisan” agave spirits are done by hand, unlike the automated machines and technology we see in the mainstream spirits producers today. Read Article

Talk of Alabama | El Viaje Raicilla

This is an agave-based spirit—Raicilla—but it is not Tequila, it's different. It's from a different region of Jalisco, the State in Mexico. The distillation process is different, it's a lot more artisan and handmade; it's not as commercialized, it has a different flavor profile as well: a very citrusy, botanical mix, and it's very new to the United States. Watch Video

Episode 35: Andrew Bernauer with El Viaje Raicilla

This is a complex spirit, and really when you look at the flavor profile, it's a lot going on, especially the more you get into it, it's got citrus notes, it's got some vanilla, some florals... the nose is very unique on it. There are two categories of Raicillas, so there are coastals and mountain Raicillas, and you'll taste a big difference in those... Listen to Episode

Mezcal Festival ‘23 & ‘24

El Viaje was a featured brand at Mezcal Lauderdale in 2024. Mezcal Lauderdale is 3-day celebration of Mezcal with related website and social media links for your discovery.