Maguey Cenizo (Agave durangensis Gentry) is a species of Asparagaceae, with a natural distribution limited to northern-central Mexico. It serves as the raw material for a regional mescal industry in this country. Agave durangensis has been little studied for aspects that may contribute to its genetic improvement. However, the ecological and economic importance of the species has prompted producers and government research institutions to conduct studies on various biological aspects of the plant, which can support the development of breeding and genetic improvement programs. The results of these efforts have yielded a robust understanding of the genetic and chemical variation as well as the potential of certain biotechnological tools to achieve this goal. This knowledge will likely expedite the development of varieties capable of thriving under a wide range of biotic and abiotic stress conditions in the near future. This is important because A. durangensis, with its phenotypical attributes and reproductive strategy, has the potential not only to sustain a successful distilled beverage industry but also the fiber and bioproduct industries. The existing knowledge and future discoveries must also contribute to the conservation of this resource, which is a valuable element of Mexico’s natural heritage. This chapter provides an overview of the current molecular, phytochemical, breeding and biotechnological knowledge on A. durangensis as well as the progress in breeding strategies, genetic lines improvement, and conservation approaches necessary to address the challenges posed by the global current climate change and human population growth on fiber, construction materials, food, and beverage supply.