Why Australian Distillers Are Embracing Agave Low Wines

Agave Low Wines: A Smart Solution for Australian Craft Distilleries

As the global thirst for agave spirits continues to rise, Australian distillers are finding a smart, efficient, and high-quality way to meet demand—by using agave low wines. Instead of importing fully distilled agave spirits like tequila or mezcal, producers are now choosing to import agave low wines: the intermediary product created after the first distillation of fermented agave.

So, why are agave low wines the new go-to for innovative Australian distillers?

What Are Agave Low Wines?

Agave low wines are created during the stripping run—the first stage of distillation after the cooked agave is fermented. These low wines usually sit at around 24–30% ABV and are the perfect base for a second (final) distillation, which transforms them into a full-strength spirit (typically 37–40% ABV).

By importing this ready-for-refinement product, distilleries in Australia gain control over the final distillation and spirit profile—without the cost, time, and logistical complexity of processing raw agave or building dedicated agave production facilities.

The Benefits of Using Agave Low Wines in Australia

1. Faster Speed to Market

Launching a new agave spirit brand in Australia can take years when sourcing raw agave or building a supply chain from scratch. By using low wines, distillers bypass the agave cooking and fermentation phases - cutting months off their production timeline.

With low wines, you can move from idea to product launch in a matter of weeks.

2. Excise Efficiency & Tax Benefits

In Australia, excise is only payable on finished alcoholic products—meaning that distilleries can store and handle agave low wines under bond, and only pay tax once the final product is bottled and sold.

This allows you to:

• Maximise the annual excise rebate (up to $350,000).

• Reduce upfront tax burden, improving cash flow.

• Avoid duties on importing finished alcohol (which can be significantly higher).

3. Premium Local Product with Global Authenticity

Agave low wines are produced in Mexico from 100% Blue Weber agave, offering the authenticity and character that consumers crave. But by finishing the distillation locally, you create a "product of Australia" that’s crafted to your exact style, vision, and brand standards.

The result? A unique agave spirit that’s both globally rooted and locally refined.

4. Lower Labour & Production Costs

Producing agave spirits from scratch is incredibly labour-intensive and expensive—especially when sourcing agave from overseas or trying to grow it locally. By starting with low wines, Australian distillers can dramatically reduce their labour requirements and capital investment, making small-batch or experimental runs much more viable.

5. Greater Creative Control

With low wines, you decide how to:

• Run your final distillation (e.g., pot still or column).

• Adjust ABV and flavour profile.

• Age or finish in barrels (e.g., oak, wine, ex-sherry).

• Create limited editions or new brands with agility.

It’s a perfect platform for innovation, giving distillers the freedom to define their own style of agave spirits.

A New Frontier for Australian Distilling

As Australia’s craft spirits scene continues to evolve, agave low wines offer a strategic and scalable solution for distilleries looking to enter the agave category. Whether you're expanding your existing range or launching an entirely new product, agave low wines help you go faster, cheaper, and smarter—without compromising on quality or provenance.

Ready to Distill Your Own Agave Spirit?

Golden Days Agave supplies high-quality agave low wines direct from Mexico, tailored for Australian distillers. We help you simplify the import process, reduce compliance headaches, and bring exceptional agave spirits to market faster than ever.