GEM&BOLT Mezcal, a line of fair-trade, female-founded Mezcal produced in Oaxaca, Mexico, has announced a strategic financing round from First Beverage Group one of the leading investment groups in the beverage industry. With a commitment to investments in innovative and transformational brands, First Beverage provides not only a capital infusion but a strategic partnership instrumental to GEM&BOLT's rapid growth in the wildly expanding mezcal category. GEM&BOLT officially launched in New York City in April 2017 after successful launches in Austin, TX and Los Angeles, CA in 2016.

First Beverage Group founder and CEO Bill Anderson will join GEM&BOLT's board of directors adding to the existing team of beverage industry experts including CEO Lisa Derman, previously of Stoli, partner Jody Levy of WTRMLN WTR and founders AdrinAdrina and Elliott Coon.

"We could not be more pleased to add GEM&BOLT to our portfolio of companies," said Bill Anderson. "We seek brands with a steep growth trajectory and GEM&BOLT Mezcal in a short period of time has become a standout favorite in the emerging, fast-growing mezcal category."

GEM&BOLT has partnered with major distributors in each of its launch markets including Empire Merchants, the recognized leading distributor in New York; California's Epic Wine & Spirits, specializing in craft spirits; and Pioneer Wine & Spirits headquartered in Texas with operations also in Colorado and Louisiana. These distributor partners are set to usher GEM&BOLT Mezcal statewide into consumer favorite retailers, restaurants and bars.

"We feel extremely fortunate to have found a strategic partner who shares a passion and commitment to innovation. GEM&BOLT Mezcal represents a union of art and plant knowledge and together with First Beverage we are eager to continue our double-digit growth in the mezcal category in key markets throughout the country," said Lisa Derman, CEO of GEM&BOLT.

GEM&BOLT is at the forefront of the clean spirit movement and is spearheading awareness of the differences between 100% agave mezcal and tequila which by regulation is only required to contain 49% agave. Produced by a 4th generation master distiller in San Dionisio, Oaxaca, Mexico, GEM&BOLT is made from 100% Espadin agave, roasted in earthen pits, crushed by tahona stone, fermented naturally in wooden vats and distilled in small copper stills. GEM&BOLT Mezcal is the only mezcal distilled with Damiana a Mexican herb of mythical proportions added during the second distillation process.

GEM&BOLT is available in 750ml, 200ml, and 50ml bottles (44% Alc. Vol).

Experience the clean spirited difference at www.gemandbolt.com and @gemandbolt.

First Beverage Group advises and invests in innovative and transformational beverage brands. Through our investment bank and private equity fund, First Beverage helps beverage companies grow and stand out in a dynamic and competitive industry. We form true partnerships with our clients by leveraging both our financial and intellectual capital. Headquartered in Los Angeles with offices in New York, the First Beverage team is made up of entrepreneurial senior beverage executives with over 200 years of collective industry experience. For more information please visit www.firstbeveragegroup.com.