RAICILLA, often overshadowed by its more famous cousin tequila, is a unique Agave Spirit with a rich history and unparalleled flavor profile. Produced for over 400 years in the coastal and mountainous regions of Jalisco, Mexico, this distinctive spirit is capturing the hearts of connoisseurs worldwide.
HISTORICAL BACKGROUND: In the late 18th century, Raicilla became an illicit moonshine to evade taxes imposed by the Spanish Crown. This led to its discreet distribution, primarily in the back streets of Puerto Vallarta. Despite its underground status, Raicilla flourished, becoming a beloved local secret and the "potent brother of tequila," known for yielding memorable, and often adventurous, tales from those who partook in its potent charms.
PRODUCTION AND TERROIR: Raicilla is distinguished by the diverse array of agave species available in Jalisco, second only to Oaxaca. This wealth of agave, coupled with the region's varied terroir, equipment, and production techniques, imparts a remarkable spectrum of flavors and historical significance to the spirit.
MOUNTAINOUS TERROIR: Puntagave Raicilla profile hails from a taberna in the mountains of Jalisco. This version highlights the floral characteristics of the Maximiliana agave, commonly known as Lechuguilla. From the root, or "piña," of the Lechuguilla, emerges a bouquet of light citrus and floral aromas, complemented by notes of hibiscus, beach plum, and pineapple. This mountain-produced (Sierra) Raicilla offers a delicate and intricate flavor profile that shows the diverse potential of the agave plant.
TASTING NOTES AND ENJOYMENT: Raicilla is celebrated for its strong acidity and high proof, ours distilled at an impressive 88 proof. This gives it a bold and dynamic profile that can be savored straight-up, eliciting an enthusiastic "ay caramba," or used as a versatile base for creating exceptional cocktails. The fragrant, fruity, and complex nature of Raicilla makes it an in-house favorite for its ability to offer both robust and nuanced tasting experiences.
RAICILLA, with its storied past and diverse flavor profiles, stands as a testament to the ingenuity and tradition of Mexican distillation. Whether enjoyed neat or in a carefully crafted cocktail, this Agave Spirit offers an unparalleled journey through the rich landscapes, terroir and cultural heritage of Jalisco. As it continues to gain recognition and appreciation on the global stage, Raicilla remains a captivating and essential spirit for any enthusiast's collection.
RAICILLA - JALISCO MONTAñA
BSH Köppen–Geiger Microclimate. Granitic rock Terroir.
