2025 CA Agave Symposium Wrap Up
We’re still buzzing from the 2025 California Agave Symposium at UC Davis—what an amazing day! This was our largest gathering to date, with a packed expo floor, a stacked speaker lineup, and a community that keeps showing up, sharing knowledge, and building something truly special together. To see a short overview, here's a fun video from our friend at Planet Mezcal, and another from Maverick Farming Co.
Highlights from the Day:
We were thrilled to welcome keynote speakers Grover and Scarlet Sanschagrin, of Tequila Matchmaker—who used our stage to make a major announcement: they’re rebranding to Agave Matchmaker, reflecting a broader focus on agave spirits worldwide. Even more exciting? They’ve officially created a special category in their app just for California Agave Spirits—a huge win for our growers, distillers, and the future of this industry.
They also shared details on the upcoming Agavos Awards, which celebrate transparency and excellence in additive-free agave spirits—a mission that deeply aligns with what we’re building here in California.
From Science to Spirits:
Dr. June Simpson from Mexico's Cinvestav Unidad Irapuato discussed molecular tools for studying agave diversity, while UC Davis's Dr. Ron Runnebaum presented ongoing research on agave genetics and crop viability in California's climate, and Rodrigo Mestas inspired us all with his pioneering work in regenerative agave farming. These voices are helping shape a better, more resilient industry.
We also got a market reality check from beverage industry veterans Eli Kestenbaum, John Young, and Julien Calella, who broke down branding strategies, the three-tier distribution system, and how to position California spirits in a growing global marketplace.
Breakout Sessions That Delivered:
Our breakout rooms were buzzing with energy all day. Panels featuring both distillers and growers brought honest, practical conversation to the forefront—what’s working, what’s not, and how we can support each other.
We also hosted two important sessions focused on the California Agave Council and the Agave Commission Bill, giving members and newcomers alike a chance to weigh in on the future of the industry, provide input and ask questions.
Another breakout session showcased agave's versatility beyond spirits. Professor Srabani Das from UC Merced discussed its potential as a sustainable livestock feed and biofuel source. Board Member Ane Diaz highlighted work transforming agave fibers into products like bags and paper. The Founders of Agave Brothers Ranch introduced surfboards crafted from agave quiotes, and other fun projects they're working on, and noted agave's role in reducing dust near the Salton Sea. The session emphasized agave's promise in sustainability and innovation.
And of course, the UC Davis researchers led sessions that shared the latest findings on agave's climate resilience, field trials, and how California can build a research-backed, sustainable agave industry.
A Buzzing Expo Floor, Thanks to Our Incredible Sponsors
The expo hall was packed and buzzing with energy all day long—filled with information, resources, demos, great conversations, and real collaboration between sponsors, growers, and distillers. Everywhere you looked, people were sharing ideas, making connections, and talking about how to support each other as this industry takes off.
A huge thank you to our incredible sponsors who made this event possible:
California Agave Growers Nursery Co-Op
Bank of America
Lallemand Distilling
Exeter Irrigation
Ocho Agaves
M8 Systems
Revival Stillworks
Agave Brothers Ranch
Agave Fans
Nutrien
And an extra special thank you to Agave Brothers Ranch, who blew the crowd away with a raffle of a stunning handcrafted agave surfboard—a truly gorgeous creation that perfectly captured the spirit and creativity of this community.
California Agave Reception – A Night to Remember!
We capped off the 2025 California Agave Symposium with a vibrant evening reception at Mulvaney’s B&L, where the energy was as strong as the spirits. We were proud to honor Assemblywoman Cecilia Aguiar-Curry, Craig Reynolds, and Ernesto Delgado with special awards for their outstanding support of the California agave industry. Each shared heartfelt, inspiring words that lit up the room.
Guests were welcomed with handcrafted California Agave Palomas and Ranch Waters, courtesy of Ventura Spirits, and treated to tastings from Shelter, Venus, Ventura, and Jano—each showcasing the exciting future of California-grown, additive-free agave spirits.
All of this was paired with Mulvaney’s legendary farm-to-fork fare, making for a truly unforgettable celebration.
What’s Next?
Stay tuned for much more! Smaller events are already being discussed around the state to keep the momentum going. As part of our CDFA Specialty Crop Block Grant the first phase is underway on our meta-analysis research project, and as new information and content is created we will keep giving updates. Whether you're a grower, distiller, researcher, or curious supporter, there will be more opportunities to learn, connect, and collaborate.
Thank you for your continued support that allows us to keep pushing this industry forward. If you're not already a member, now's the time! Join here.
Have ideas? Questions? Want to get involved? Reach out—we’d love to hear from you.
Let’s keep this movement going.
—The California Agave Council Team
