Handcrafted, exceptional mezcal.
Around 2004, John Rexer began smuggling mezcal from Oaxaca, Mexico to Café No Sé, his clandestine bar and music hub in Antigua, Guatemala.
The mezcal became popular very quickly. In 2006, John created the brand Ilegal, originally just to supply the bar. On the back of each bottle of Ilegal you will find it says "Originally produced for: Café No Sé, Mezcal Bar."
Made from 100% agave, Ilegal contains no artificial colors, flavors, additives, or preservatives. Our practices reflect our commitment to sustainability and biodiversity in the Oaxaca region. Commitment to quality is apparent in every step of our process, from harvest to first sip.
But Ilegal Mezcal is more than a handcrafted liquor from Oaxaca, Mexico.
It is also a state of mind and a way of living. It’s about travel, personal freedom, spontaneity, and a sharing of experience. It’s about uniting people over a drink. It’s about connecting with the wild inside and outside each of us. It’s about keeping the rough edges and the human element. It is for people who prefer the texture of time-etched beauty rather than the gloss of processed perfection.
It’s also about standing up for what we believe is right. We are an activist brand that takes to the streets and walls to support freedom, human dignity, uninhibited creativity, and a habitable planet. We actively fundraise for causes we believe in. Our motto: fight for positive change, kick up some dust, drink an Ilegal.
We have seen the beauty of different cultures under one roof, and the potential of creativity and individuality when encouraged and ignited by a little mezcal. Bringing down borders is part of our everyday existence. We know that we are all in this together if we are to make the future better. We wouldn’t have it any other way. We welcome those who share our values to saddle up to the bar.
Handcrafted by fourth-generation mezcaleros in small batches in Oaxaca, Mexico, Ilegal Mezcal has a beautifully balanced profile, with a mouthful of agave and a hint of smoke. Our practices reflect our commitment to biodiversity in the Oaxaca region. Commitment to quality is apparent in every step of our process, from harvest to first sip.
