1953 Tequila is shaking up the spirits industry by proving that women can lead at every stage of production, from farm to bottle. Founded by Shivam Mallick Shah, Lindsey Davis Stover, and Alison Kiehl Friedman, the brand is built around female leadership in a category long dominated by men. The name “1953” pays tribute to the year women won the right to vote in Mexico, reflecting the company’s commitment to empowerment and equality.

Determined to challenge industry norms, the founders spent nearly two years seeking partners who shared their vision of women-led operations. Their journey led them to a family-owned distillery in Mexico—remarkably run by its matriarch and her daughters—where traditions blend with progressive values. The agave for 1953 Tequila is cultivated by a team of sisters who took over their family’s farm, supported by 1953’s guarantee to purchase their harvest. This partnership ensures not only high-quality, additive-free tequila but also the advancement of women in agricultural and distilling roles.

Throughout its supply chain, 1953 Tequila actively prioritizes the promotion and hiring of women in leadership positions. The founders overcame repeated skepticism, facing those who said women couldn’t or shouldn’t run agave farms or distilleries. Their persistence has paid off and today, 1953 is both a premium spirit and a proof of concept that the glass ceiling can be broken in even the most traditional sectors.

With every bottle, 1953 Tequila tells a story of resilience, innovation, and the unwavering belief that women deserve a seat at every table—including those at the heart of the tequila industry. For consumers, enjoying 1953 isn’t just about savoring a finely crafted spirit; it’s about supporting a movement that values equality, opportunity, and legacy.