Gem&Bolt Mezcal, a line of fair-trade, female-founded Mezcal produced in Oaxaca, Mexico, has announced a strategic financing round from First Beverage Group.
First Beverage Group founder and CEO Bill Anderson will join Gem&Bolt’s board of directors adding to the existing team of beverage industry experts including CEO Lisa Derman, previously of Stoli, partner Jody Levy of WTRMLN WTR and founders AdrinAdrina and Elliott Coon.
“We could not be more pleased to add Gem&Bolt to our portfolio of companies,” said Bill Anderson. “We seek brands with a steep growth trajectory and Gem&Bolt Mezcal in a short period of time has become a standout favorite in the emerging, fast-growing mezcal category.”
Gem&Bolt has partnered with major distributors in each of its launch markets including Empire Merchants, the recognized leading distributor in New York; California’s Epic Wine & Spirits, specializing in craft spirits; and Pioneer Wine & Spirits headquartered in Texas with operations also in Colorado and Louisiana. These distributor partners are set to usher Gem&Bolt Mezcal statewide into consumer favorite retailers, restaurants and bars.
“We feel extremely fortunate to have found a strategic partner who shares a passion and commitment to innovation. Gem&Bolt Mezcal represents a union of art and plant knowledge and together with First Beverage we are eager to continue our double-digit growth in the mezcal category in key markets throughout the country,” said Lisa Derman, CEO of Gem&Bolt.