Overview
- The designation was unveiled Nov. 12 in a state‑federal ceremony led by Gov. Delfina Gómez with Economy Secretary Marcelo Ebrard and IMPI director Santiago Nieto.
- It grants legal protection to mezcal made in 15 southern municipalities and allows producers there to commercialize their spirit under the recognized origin.
- Authorities recorded 318 production units and 5,508 hectares of agave as the baseline for rolling out support and oversight.
- Ebrard touted new commercial openings for mezcaleros, while Nieto pointed to opportunities to build tourism routes that showcase regional heritage.
- State agriculture secretary María Eugenia Rojano said publication in the federal government gazette is still pending, expected around Nov. 20, and pledged continued backing for master distillers.