NewAs Oregon’s first mezcal brand, Autora needed to bridge Oaxacan tradition with Portland’s craft culture. We developed a premium identity rooted in tradition and folklore, moving beyond industry clichés to create a cohesive system.
This strategy allows a rotating collection of single-origin expressions—each with its own lineage and lore—to live within a sophisticated, modern brand. We collaborated with Autora to develop a brand strategy and identity that functions as a vessel for storytelling. The system balances archival textures with contemporary precision, using hand-drawn art and evocative naming to ensure every bottle serves as a distinct chapter of cultural exchange.
Credits - Thanks to our trusted clients at Autora - Becca and Anthony Ayon. Strategy, creative direction, and design by Denis Kegler. Label art and animation by James Coffman. Copywriting by the lovely Belle Chesler. Product and event photography by Kevin Evans. Lifestyle, process, and environmental photography by Anna Bruce, Memo Stone, and Omar Phs.
Autora
(au·tor·a):
The Spanish word for author (feminine).
Each bottle is El Cuento — a story rooted in mezcal, shaped by land, lore, and lineage. From ancient rituals to modern-day harvests, every batch is a chapter in a living narrative.
✸ The story of Sierra del Fuego
A land burnished by the sun. Pitted roads snaking through ancient valleys. You arrive at the pueblo, welcomed with warmth and laughter. Copas are poured; the orange glow from palenques illuminating the night sky.
✸ The story of La Sombra Del Zorro
During the harvest a spectral fox stalks the agave fields. Not entirely of this world, it can only be seen under the light of the full moon. The guardian of the fields, leaving only its shadow.
✸ The story of El Elixir
In ancient Oaxaca, the people were divided by land and language. Yet, they possessed a powerful drink that united even the most distant hearts. Mezcal became a sacred bridge, building understanding and connection to this day.
As the first Oregon-owned importer of heirloom mezcal, Autora has successfully established a new category of cultural exchange in the Pacific Northwest. By elevating the stories of small-scale families through world-class branding, This® helped Autora move beyond a typical spirits launch to create a premium, relationship-driven brand that resonates deeply with both connoisseurs and the local community.
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This® built our brand from the ground up. By listening deeply and leading strategically, they created a brand that resonates in the U.S. while authentically honoring Oaxacan culture. Their ability to balance strategy, creativity, and cultural integrity is exceptional. Our growth today is a direct result of their partnership.
Becca Ayon
Owner, Marketing Director, Autora
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