The Hands That Shape Tradition

Once the agave reaches full maturity, it is ready for one of the most labor-intensive and skillful steps in the mezcal-making process: the harvest. This is no mechanized operation—every single agave is cut by hand, using tools that have been passed down for generations. Skilled mezcaleros, known as jimadores, carefully trim the spiky leaves using a coa de jima, a sharp, circular blade attached to a long wooden handle. This tool allows them to expertly slice away the pencas (leaves), exposing the heart of the plant—the piña, which holds the natural sugars essential for fermentation.

Harvesting agave is an art that requires both strength and precision. The plants can weigh anywhere from 80 to 300 pounds, and removing the leaves is no easy task. If too much of the outer layer is left intact, the mezcal can develop unwanted bitterness. If cut too aggressively, essential flavors can be lost. A skilled jimador knows exactly how much to shave away, ensuring that only the best, ripest portion of the piña remains. This level of attention to detail is what sets artisanal mezcal apart from mass-produced spirits.

Beyond the physical labor, the harvest represents a sacred connection to the land. Many mezcaleros view this stage as a ritual of respect, acknowledging the years of growth that went into each plant. Unlike industrial farming, where crops are cleared in bulk, agave harvesting is done selectively, with only the mature plants being taken while younger ones continue to grow. This sustainable approach ensures the longevity of both the land and the mezcal-making tradition, preventing overharvesting and allowing the ecosystem to thrive.

At FaneKantsini, this commitment to sustainability and tradition is at the heart of every bottle. Jimadores don’t just cut agave—they honor its journey. They understand that mezcal is not a product of speed but of careful cultivation. With every swing of the coa, they continue a legacy that has been preserved for centuries, ensuring that each harvested agave becomes a reflection of the land, the people, and the traditions that shape it.