When you think of Mexican drinks, tequila is probably the first that comes to mind. Big celebrity brands like Casamigos (George Clooney), Teremana (Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson), and 818 (Kendall Jenner) have made tequila a global star. In 2024 alone, Americans purchased more than 32 million cases of agave spirits, valued at $6.7 billion.
But Mexico’s spirit world is much bigger than just tequila and mezcal. Across the country, distillers are crafting unique drinks, including heirloom corn whiskey, gin with Mexican botanicals, and lesser-known agave spirits such as raicilla, bacanora, sotol, and even a traditional Mayan drink called pox.
A new generation of distillers
Young creators like Hillhamn Salome of Flor de Luna Distillery are mixing tradition with modern methods. Her Condesa Gin blends ancient herbal healing traditions with fresh gin-making techniques. Famous chef Enrique Olvera, known for restaurants Pujol and Cosme, has also joined the scene with Manojo Mezcal, highlighting the diversity of agaves and production styles.
Rediscovering old traditions
Some drinks have deep cultural roots. Pox, for example, is a ceremonial drink from the Maya people of Chiapas. Now, brands like Siglo Cero are introducing it to the U.S. for the first time.
Spirits to try
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Mezcal (Manojo Espadín) – Light, grassy, less smoky.
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Sotol (Cardenxe) – A cross between mezcal and gin.
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Raicilla (Mezonte Japo) – Creamy, lactic notes, great with food.
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Bacanora (Rancho Tepúa) – Vegetal with a hint of smoke.
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Pox (Siglo Cero) – Savory, with ancho chile and coconut notes.
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Gin (Condesa Salome) – Bright, citrusy, women-owned brand.
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Whiskey (Prieto y Prieta) – Oaxacan corn whiskey, rich and earthy.
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Charanda (Uruapan) – Mexican rum, smooth and sweet.
Mexican spirits are more diverse than ever, giving adventurous drinkers a taste of the country’s culture in every sip.
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