What is Sotol?

Sotol is a Mexcian production, a distilled spirit made from the Dasylirion plant, which is commonly known as desert spoon. It's a native variety to the Chihuahuan Desert region of northern Mexico, New Mexico, Texas and Arizona. As such, it is considered the state spirit of Chihuahua, although it is also produced in Coahuila and Durango. Whilst not produced from agave, like Tequila, Mezcal and Raicilla, it is still fairly similar in style. Commonly considered to have smoky and earthy flavours, but standing apart from its more famous cousins with a brighter and grassier character. You can also find eucalyptus, pine and spicy notes.

It also comes in Joven, Reposado and Anejo depending on maturation age.

History of Sotol

It has been produced by the Indigenous People of the Chihuahuan Desert for centuries. Distillation technology came over with Filipino immigrants under the Spanish Empire in the 16th century, and the locals peoples quickly acquired the knowledge in how to use them. This is also how Mezcal came into being.

It was illegal in Mexico until 1994 whereupon it was granted protected status and can only be made in three regions of Mexcio. America, with their never-ending love story towards Mexico, kindly decided not to recognise this meaning you can also find US versions of Sotol.