Today we’d like to introduce you to Leticia Fernandez de Mesa. They and their team shared their story with us below:
Leticia Fernández de Mesa is the CEO & Founder of UNA VODKA, the world’s first Begonia-infused vodka. After many years as a successful art world executive, Leticia launched UNA which is inspired by her travels through Latin America. During these travels, she developed a passion for edible flowers and experimented to create delicious infusions and essences. Inspired to share this experience with the world, UNA Vodka was born in 2021 — a true distillation of artistic expression and celebration of beauty.
Originally from Spain, Leticia kicked off her career at Sotheby’s in New York before moving to Colombia, where she founded an auction house in Bogotá. Her work was instrumental in establishing the secondary art market in the region today.
Her passion for exploring unique experiences and finding beauty in small things is evident in her work. UNA Vodka, lovingly made in Florida, is a celebration of the artistic and the beautiful, and the bottle serves a canvas for artists.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It has not been an easy journey, but the key is learning to persevere and never giving up. The spirit’s industry is very competitive as many are, and they’re a giant players. I focus on the wins and use the challenges as opportunities to learn and grow. I face each day with patience and unwavering determination.
Introducing a very unique vodka into the market is not easy. Our battle is changing people’s perspective on this category and opening their taste buds to a whole new experience. UNA inspires a new way on how to sip now.
I also know the importance of surrounding myself with the best of the best – people who believe in me and share my vision. UNA Vodka’s success is a testament to the strength of our team. As a leader, I understand the importance of recognizing my limitations and entrusting others with their areas of expertise. It is the only way collectively to achieve our common goal at UNA.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
UNA Vodka is a premium, handcrafted, flower-infused vodka made lovingly in Florida with a lower ABV of 35%.
UNA Vodka is a flower arrangement in liquid form that takes us to idyllic landscapes intimate places; it gives us a way to admire nature, to take it in… it’s a pure celebration of beauty in each sip. From the liquid to its packaging, UNA is the liquid shape of beauty.
Indulge your senses and toast to the beauty and wonder of the natural world. A one-of-a-kind spirit infused with the natural beauty of edible flowers.
UNA is the world’s first Begonia-infused vodka made in Florida.
Using UNA in your cocktails leaves room for more ingredients, and it also speeds up the drink-making process by adding a level of consistency and allowing the introduction of various flavors.
EMPOWER, BEAUTIFY, and UNLEASH your beautiful spirit with us. The sky is the limit with these bright and crisp floral notes.
Say it with us, #PourMeUNA
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
I would like to show appreciation for the amazing San Diego restaurateur David Contreras Curiel. A dreamer who envisions beauty in every aspect of life and a dedicated seeker of elegance in even the smallest of details. David has a unique ability to find and appreciate beauty in the world around him, making his presence a source of inspiration to others. So, you can imagine what it felt like when he opened the doors of Karina’s restaurant group to UNA Vodka. I wanted to express my heartfelt appreciation for this opportunity to set foot in San Diego. My family they are the ones I fight for every day. Without them, I wouldn’t be able to overcome the daily challenges that come with being a small business owner. They are my safety net and have given me the freedom of expressing my own true self without judgment. When I say my family, I include my closest friends that believe in, encourage, support, and enjoy this journey called life because UNA is my life. It has become an entity of itself, where all my life experiences, learnings, and people I love have come together. UNA is more than a vodka; it is the result of my failures and successes. The learning process was long and challenging but worth it. I am a lover of art and music; the two fuel my soul.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.unavodka.com
- Instagram: @unavodka
Image Credits
UNA Vodka
