The black panther, a melanistic variant of the Jaguar, has significant heritage and mythological significance across various cultures and regions. It has represented a powerful symbol of mystery, strength, and transformation for centuries. In Latin America, especially in ancient times, the black panther was revered as a sacred animal with spiritual energy, power, mystery, stealth, strength, and protection. We have taken those qualities and instilled our passion for ensuring those qualities are embodied in each bottle of Michu Mezcal.
The colored spots of our Black Panther are inspired by colorful paintings on fantastic traditional wooden carvings of centuries-old creatures decorated with Zapotec patterns from and artists imagination. These carvings are known as Alebrijes (ah-leh-bree-hess); Alebrijes became embedded in the Zapotec culture in the early 1900s, and today, you can find thousands of representations of these mystical artisan creatures scattered throughout the many shops in Oaxaca, Mexico. These colorful one-of-a-kind carvings are handmade using the wood of the copal tree, which is grown in the surrounding villages, and considered a sacred tree that only grows in Oaxaca.
In Zapotec cultural tradition, it is said that each of us has a connection to a particular animal spirit. Depending on the year, month, and location you are born, we all have an animal that is assigned by the ancient gods. Each animal is representative of a god that is believed to possess certain powers and qualities. The interconnection between the traditional world and reality is at the heart of what we do to bring an experience that comes as close to the mystical as possible while being true to the ancient traditions.
When you experience Michu Mezcal, you will also will find your inner spirit….enjoy!