Mexican spirits beyond agave
Agave plays a central role in Mexico’s drinking culture, offering iconic beverages like tequila and mezcál. However, for those seeking alternative options, Mexico offers a diverse array of spirits that do not derive from the agave plant. Here are six remarkable Mexican spirits beyond agave that showcase the country’s rich drinking heritage:
1. Maize Vodka
Origin: Puebla, Tlaxcala
Key ingredient: Organic corn
Description: Maize vodka, crafted from multicolored maize cultivated in the Puebla-Tlaxcala valley for thousands of years, boasts a mild, sweet profile distinct from potato-based vodkas. It is a versatile spirit perfect for cocktails, offering a pleasant, smooth taste.
Recommended serving: Enjoy it neat, on the rocks, or as the base for a cocktail featuring ginger kombucha, fresh lemon juice, and agave syrup.
2. Sotol
Origin: Durango, Chihuahua, Coahuila
Key ingredient: Dasylirion wheeleri, often mistaken for an agave
Description: Sotol, with its herbal and dense character and a hint of metallic notes, stands as a unique spirit akin to mezcál. It undergoes a 15-year distillation process, making it an ideal choice for special occasions.
Recommended serving: Sip it straight to savor its rich flavors.
3. Pox
Origin: Chiapas
Key ingredients: Corn, wheat bran, sugarcane
Description: Pox, developed by the Tzotzil Mayas for religious rituals, offers a slightly smoky, sweet flavor. Previously restricted to Chiapas, it has gained popularity among bartenders after regulations were lifted in 2012.
Recommended serving: Enjoy neat with a side of fruit or as the base for fruity cocktails featuring citrus or pineapple notes.
4. Xtabentún
Origin: Yucatán
Key ingredients: Honey, anisette, and rum
Description: Xtabentún, according to ancient Maya beliefs, increases your chances of finding love. It also possesses digestive qualities and pairs well with the Yucatan’s warm climate. The word xtabentún means “vines growing on stone” in the Mayan language.
Recommended serving: Savor it on the rocks, in a refreshing cocktail with tequila and lime, or add it to your coffee for a delightful twist.
5. Kahlúa
Origin: Veracruz
Key ingredients: Coffee, rum, vanilla bean
Description: Born in the tropical state of Veracruz in 1936, Kahlúa takes seven years to produce a single bottle. It features Arabica coffee beans grown in the shade and is a key ingredient in beloved cocktails like White Russians and Espresso Martinis.
Recommended serving: Enjoy it in classic cocktails or add it to your coffee for a rich flavor enhancement.
6. Ancho Reyes
Origin: Puebla
Key ingredients: Sugarcane and either chile poblano or chile ancho
Description: Ancho Reyes is a spirited surprise with a 40% alcohol content. Crafted in Puebla, it captures the essence of regional chiles and sugarcane from Veracruz. Whether it’s the Original with chile ancho or the Verde with chile poblano, this sweet and spicy spirit adds a delightful kick to cocktails.
Recommended serving: Try Ancho Reyes Verde in a spicy margarita or Ancho Reyes Chile Ancho in a Carajillo, or simply enjoy it with lemon juice.
While agave-based spirits may dominate Mexican drinking culture, these six diverse alternatives offer a unique taste of Mexico’s rich and varied spirit offerings.
