In 1840, The Vieyra family began their journey as maestro Mezcaleros. For 6 generations. Mezcal in Michoacan is what they are known for. The brand is not named after the first maestro, but the 3rd, Emilio great great grandfather Mateo Rangel. The Vieyra family chose Don Mateo because he had fought and died for social causes during the Mexican Prohibition.