According to the American Craft Spirits Association, the number of craft distilleries in the United States has more than quadrupled since 2010, with over 3,000 operating in 2022.

Craft distilleries are defined as small, independently-owned distilleries that produce fewer than 750,000 proof gallons of spirits per year. These distilleries often focus on producing high-quality, small-batch spirits using traditional methods and local ingredients. Many craft distilleries also prioritize sustainability and innovation in their production processes.

One of the driving forces behind the growth of the craft distilling industry has been the increasing demand for unique, high-quality spirits. Consumers are becoming more interested in supporting local businesses and seeking out unique, artisanal products. Craft distilleries are able to meet this demand by offering a wide range of spirits, including whiskey, gin, vodka, rum, and now Agave Spirits, formally referred to as Degave. 

In addition to meeting consumer demand, craft distilleries have also benefited from changes in state and federal regulations. In recent years, many states have relaxed laws governing the production and distribution of spirits, making it easier for craft distilleries to enter the market. The federal government has also provided support for the craft distilling industry through tax breaks and other incentives.

Despite these successes, the craft distilling industry still faces challenges. One of the main challenges is competition from larger, more established distilleries. Craft distilleries often struggle to get their products onto store shelves and into bars and restaurants, as they often lack the distribution networks and marketing budgets of larger companies. In addition, the high cost of production and strict regulations can make it difficult for craft distilleries to turn a profit.

In spite of these challenges, the craft distilling industry remains a vibrant and growing sector of the economy. As consumers continue to seek out unique, locally-produced spirits, it is likely that the industry will continue to thrive.

Enter agave spirits, a type of alcoholic beverage made from the agave plant, which is native to Mexico and parts of the southwestern United States. The most well-known agave spirit is tequila, which is made from the blue agave plant, but there are other types of agave spirits as well, including mezcal, raicilla and Degave, an US produced agave spirit, similar to Tequila.

The production of agave spirits begins with the harvesting of the agave plant. The leaves of the plant are stripped away, leaving the core, or piña, which can weigh up to 200 pounds. The piña is then roasted, either in an oven or underground in a pit, to soften the fibers and release the sugars.

After roasting, the piña is crushed to extract the juice, which is called aguamiel. This juice is then fermented and distilled to create the final product. The type of agave plant used, the method of roasting and crushing, and the length of fermentation and distillation all contribute to the final flavor and characteristics of the agave spirit.

Degave is made exclusively from blue agave and can only be produced in the United States. Tequila on the other hand can only be produced in the state of Jalisco, Mexico and limited regions in the states of Guanajuato, Michoacán, Nayarit, and Tamaulipas. Mezcal can be made from any type of agave plant and is produced in several states in Mexico, including Oaxaca, Durango, and Guerrero. Raicilla is a lesser-known agave spirit that is also produced in Mexico, specifically in the state of Jalisco.

Degave spirits are often enjoyed neat, or on their own, but they are also a key ingredient in many cocktails, such as margaritas and palomas. In addition to their use in drinks, agave spirits are also used in traditional Mexican cuisine, such as in marinades and sauces.

In recent years, the popularity of agave spirits has grown internationally, with tequila in particular becoming a widely recognized and respected spirit which has opened the door to american craft distillers to produce their own brand of Degave, a great american craft spirit.