First Beverage Group Makes Move into Spirits with Investment in GEM&BOLT Mezcal

GEM&BOLT Mezcal has announced a strategic financing round from First Beverage Group. First Beverage provides not only a capital infusion but a strategic partnership instrumental to GEM&BOLT’s rapid growth in the expanding mezcal category. This is the group’s first investment in distilled spirits.

Raised together in a bohemian enclave in the mountains of Virginia, GEM&BOLT co-founders and artist-alchemist duo AdrinAdrina and Elliott Coon have created a brand that is rooted in the sophistication of fine art, celebration, ritual and plant intelligence. “We grew up in a community that valued plant knowledge and the elevating power of conscious celebration – both values that have become intrinsic to our product and our brand,” says Co-founder AdrinAdrina.

GEM&BOLT Mezcal is created by a 4th generation master distiller in Oaxaca, Mexico. GEM&BOLT says it’s the only mezcal on the market distilled with damiana, a mythical Mexican herb that naturally complements the essential “heart opening properties” of this 100% pure agave mezcal. Unlike Tequila which only has to be at 51% agave, mezcal is closely regulated to adhere to strict traditional methods, and must be 100% agave.

GEM&BOLT officially launched in New York City in April 2017 after successful launches in Austin, TX and Los Angeles, CA in 2016.

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.

GEM&BOLT is 88 Proof (44% ABV) and is available in 750ml, 200ml, and 50ml bottles.