Tequila and Raicilla: The Spirits That Define the Soul of Jalisco

Jalisco is synonymous with tradition, flavor, and culture, and few expressions represent it better than its two most emblematic spirits: tequila and raicilla. Both born from the agave plant, these beverages not only reflect the natural richness of the state but also its history, ingenuity, and deep connection to the land.

TEQUILA: MEXICO’S INTERNATIONAL SYMBOL

Originating in the region that shares its name, tequila is undoubtedly the most globally recognized Mexican spirit. It can only be produced from the Blue Weber Agave (Agave Tequilana Weber), and its process combines the heritage of Mexican agave with distillation techniques introduced from Europe.

Protected by a Designation of Origin (DO) that covers 181 municipalities (125 of them in Jalisco), tequila has managed to conquer palates on every continent. Its flavor depends on the soil and the production process:

• Tequila from Los Altos (The Highlands): Sourced from red, mineral-rich soils, it tends to be sweeter and more fruity.
• Tequila from Los Valles (The Valleys): Offers more herbal notes thanks to the use of water from the Tequila volcano.

Whether in its blanco (silver), reposado (rested), or añejo (aged) version, tequila represents the elegance and versatility of the Jalisco spirit.

RAICILLA: THE HIDDEN TREASURE OF THE MOUNTAINS

Lesser known but equally fascinating, raicilla has its origins in the old mining areas of the Sierra Madre Occidental. Unlike tequila, it can be made from up to five different species of agave, which grants it a greater diversity of aromas and flavors.

Officially recognized with a Designation of Origin (DO), raicilla is produced in 16 municipalities of Jalisco and is classified into three categories based on its preparation method: raicilla, raicilla artesanal (artisanal), and raicilla tradicional (traditional).

There are two main varieties:

• Raicilla de La Sierra (Mountain Raicilla): Made with Maximiliana, Inaequidens, and Valenciana agaves, with mineral and smoky notes.
• Raicilla de La Costa (Coastal Raicilla): Produced with Angustifolia and Rhodacantha agaves, featuring a more fruity and herbal profile.

TWO DRINKS, ONE SPIRIT

Although distinct in origin and character, tequila and raicilla share something essential: they are both a celebration of the agave plant and the cultural identity of Jalisco. With every sip, you can appreciate the history of a people who, generation after generation, have managed to transform the land into liquid art, reaffirming that the soul of Mexico is distilled in Jalisco.