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Rafael Shin

Founder at Agua Mágica Mezcal

Rafael Shin is the founder of Agua Mágica Mezcal, a premium mezcal brand launched in May 2021.2 Here are some key details about Rafael Shin:

Background and Education

Rafael was born in Seoul, Korea, but moved to Mexico City when he was one year old.3 He considers himself Mexican, having grown up there. Rafael received his education from:

  • Instituto Tecnológico Autónomo de México (BS in Economics, 2000-2005)1
  • University of Pennsylvania - The Wharton School (MBA, 2008-2010)1

Professional Experience

Before founding Agua Mágica, Rafael had a career in finance:

  • Senior Analyst Food and Beverages Latam at Morgan Stanley (2016-2019)1
  • Lead Research Analyst - Retail and Food & Beverages at BTG Pactual (2010-2016)1
  • Associate at Credit Suisse (2005-2008)1

Founding Agua Mágica

Rafael's connection to Oaxaca, where he had been traveling for over 32 years, inspired him to create Agua Mágica.2 He spent two years developing the brand, including:

  • Meeting 80-90 mezcal producers in Oaxaca
  • Tasting numerous mezcal expressions
  • Conducting market research with friends and bartenders in New York City2

Rafael raised over $3 million from friends and family to launch the brand.2

Brand Mission

Agua Mágica aims to:

  • Preserve Mexican culture, specifically from Oaxaca
  • Educate consumers on mezcal heritage and traditions
  • Empower local entrepreneurship in Oaxaca
  • Redirect the growth of mezcal to benefit local communities23

The brand partners with Maestro Mezcalero Rogelio Juan Hernández, a 5th generation mezcal producer from San Juan del Río, Oaxaca.4

Highlights

Jan 19 · rollingstone.com
Could This Oaxacan Town Become the 'Burgundy of Mezcal?'
Could This Oaxacan Town Become the 'Burgundy of Mezcal?'
Sep 23 · hotelsabovepar.com
A Toast to the Future of Mezcal with Rafa Shin, Founder of Agua ...
A Toast to the Future of Mezcal with Rafa Shin, Founder of Agua ...
48. Hot Spot: Rafael Shin of Agua Mágica - On The Pass
Jul 20 · radiche.com
AGUA MAGICA, RAFAEL SHIN: Sipping With Purpose - RADICHE
AGUA MAGICA, RAFAEL SHIN: Sipping With Purpose - RADICHE

Related Questions

What inspired Rafael Shin to transition from finance to mezcal?
How does Rafael Shin's background influence his approach to mezcal production?
What makes Agua Mágica Mezcal different from other premium mezcal brands?
How does Rafael Shin's partnership with Mezcalero Don Rogelio impact the brand?
What are some unique traditions Rafael Shin aims to preserve through Agua Mágica Mezcal?
Rafael Shin
Rafael Shin, photo 1
Rafael Shin, photo 2
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Location

New York, New York, United States