Consumers are paying closer attention to what is actually in their tequila and mezcal. Recent class-action lawsuits against several major tequila brands have alleged that companies marketed products as “100% agave,” “small batch,” or “handcrafted” while not really being any of those things.

In 2025 and 2026, class-action lawsuits were filed against Teremana Tequila, the celebrity-backed brand founded by Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, as well as Diageo-owned brands Casamigos and Don Julio. The lawsuits claim consumers paid premium prices for products marketed as “100% agave,” “small batch,” and “handcrafted” that allegedly did not meet those expectations.

The companies involved have denied the allegations and continue to defend their products in court, though independent lab testing revealed some of their products were diluted with at least 10% of either cane- or corn-derived ethanol.

A Growing Demand for Transparency

As demand for tequila and mezcal continues to grow, some brands have expanded into massive production operations while still using language traditionally associated with artisan spirits.

Critics argue that terms such as “small batch” and “handcrafted” can become difficult to reconcile with production volumes reaching hundreds of thousands or even millions of cases annually.

O’Kahan Agave’s Commitment to Traditional Craftsmanship

This is where O’Kahan Agave Mezcal stands apart. O’Kahan Agave Mezcal is made from 100% agave using traditional methods that prioritize quality over volume. Each cook results in an average of 700 bottles. Our recent special edition Robin Sage cook is only 250 bottles.

Every batch is produced by hand, allowing the natural character of the agave to shine through. Rather than relying on marketing buzzwords, the brand embraces the craftsmanship and heritage that have defined mezcal production for generations.

Why Authenticity Matters to Mezcal Lovers

For mezcal enthusiasts, authenticity is about more than a label. It is about knowing where the agave was grown, understanding how the spirit was produced, and appreciating the skill of the people who created it.

In a market where consumers are increasingly questioning industry claims, genuine small-batch, handmade mezcal offers something that cannot be mass-produced: trust.

Why Consumers Are Paying Attention

For many tequila and mezcal enthusiasts, terms such as “100% agave,” “handcrafted,” and “small batch” are more than marketing phrases. They represent a commitment to traditional production methods, ingredient transparency, and authenticity.

These lawsuits have encouraged consumers to ask more questions about where their agave spirits come from, how they are produced, and whether the labels accurately reflect what is in the bottle.

The O’Kahan Agave Difference

At a time when consumers are increasingly examining the claims made by large spirits brands, O’Kahan Agave Mezcal remains committed to traditional craftsmanship.

Made from 100% agave and produced in genuine small batches using traditional methods, O’Kahan focuses on quality, transparency, and respect for the heritage of agave spirits. Rather than relying on celebrity endorsements or mass-market production, the brand embraces the artisanal approach that has defined mezcal for generations.

For mezcal lovers who value authenticity, knowing who made the spirit, how it was produced, and where the agave was grown can be just as important as what’s in the glass. That connection to craftsmanship is what continues to set true artisanal mezcal apart.