#USA #Los Angeles #Ola Sol #Agave Wine #Humo

Ola Sol Unveils Humo: A 100% Agave Wine with a Mezcal Twist

Ola Sol, a prominent producer of agave wines based in Los Angeles, has recently launched an innovative new product called Humo. This 100% agave wine is designed to encapsulate the distinctive smoky essence of traditional mezcal, making it a versatile addition to many cocktail menus. The announcement of Humo comes alongside a distribution agreement with Union Beer/Blueprint Spirits, facilitating its availability in the bustling market of New York City, and expanding into other states such as California.

The Essence of Humo

Humo is crafted entirely from Espadín agave sourced from the rich soils of Oaxaca. But what sets this product apart is the use of mezcal brandy, which is distilled from the same agave. This combination not only enriches the flavor profile but also allows Humo to offer a unique smoking experience worthy of any mezcal-based cocktail. Ola Sol emphasizes that this wine does not imitate mezcal; instead, it draws from authentic mezcal-making techniques, ensuring that the smoky flavors are inherent and not artificially added.

The production of Humo starts with six-year-old Espadín agave, which is cooked using traditional underground earthen ovens for approximately five days. After cooking, the agave is crushed on a tahona mill, then naturally fermented for roughly 15 days before being distilled in copper pot stills. This careful process preserves the natural smokiness derived from the cooking method, making Humo a genuine representation of mezcal's characteristics within a wine classification.

Catering to a Unique Market

According to recent statistics from the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control, there are nearly 27,000 establishments in California holding beer-and-wine licenses, while New York boasts over 5,000 restaurants and bars with similar licenses. However, these establishments typically cannot serve tequila or mezcal due to legal restrictions. Humo enters the scene as a solution to this gap, allowing bars and restaurants to offer a full array of agave-based cocktails, such as Oaxaca old fashioneds and mezcal negronis, all while operating under their existing licenses.

Alexis Beechen, CEO and Co-Founder of Ola Sol, highlights that as the seasons transition, consumers often gravitate towards richer, darker cocktails. Humo provides these establishments with a legal and appealing option that meets the increasing demand for mezcal drinks. "The smoky profile means bars can now serve mezcal cocktails without the constraints of licensing problems," says Beechen.

Nutritional Insights and Distinctions

Humo has a strong alcoholic content of 24% Alc./Vol. per 750 mL bottle, with only 45 calories per fluid ounce, making it a relatively low-calorie option for cocktail aficionados. Importantly, it contains no additives, fulfilling health-conscious demands. Additionally, it is kosher certified by Aleph Kosher, ensuring it meets dietary restrictions for those who observe such practices.

Union Beer and Blueprint Spirits Partnership

The collaboration with Union Beer and Blueprint Spirits represents a significant step forward for Ola Sol, placing Humo in the hands of one of New York's largest accounts in the on-premise beverage space. Oscar Delgado, Wine and Spirits Manager at Blueprint Spirits, expressed enthusiasm for adding Ola Sol’s offerings to their portfolio, stating, "This partnership provides us a competitive edge in a market segment that is currently underserved, allowing our sales teams to expand their reach and influence."

About Ola Sol

Founded in 2024, Ola Sol aims to redefine the boundaries of agave wine. Its portfolio not only highlights Humo but also includes a flagship blanco made from Blue Weber agave from Jalisco, which has already garnered a 93-point rating from Wine Enthusiast. Moreover, their products are certified vegan, gluten-free, and crafted without additives, further appealing to a health-conscious audience. Currently, Ola Sol’s offerings can be found in more than 500 restaurants and retailers across California, New Jersey, and New York, available for direct purchase at olasol.com.

With the launch of Humo, Ola Sol is paving the way for a new category in the beverage industry, merging the unique qualities of mezcal and wine, and ensuring consumers have access to innovative and delightful drinking experiences.