The World’s Best Raicilla, According To The Latin American World Spirits Competition

The inaugural Latin American World Spirits Competition (LAWSC) showcased a variety of agave spirits, with Raicilla, an obscure agave distillate from Jalisco, standing out as the top pick among regional agave spirits. With its distinct history and flavors, this unique spirit will pique consumer interest. Below is a brief description of Raicilla’s history and a tasting note on the top-ranked Raicilla spirit.

Commenting on the first LAWSC, Amanda Blue, President of the Tasting Alliance, noted:

The inaugural Latin American World Spirits Competition offered the expert judging panel an opportunity to evaluate a range of regional agave spirits like Raicilla, Sotol, and Bacanora. These agave spirits are uncommon in US-based competitions. Still, they are gaining interest from consumers interested in Mexico’s more obscure agave spirits, underscoring the importance of a Guadalajara-based spirits competition.

Raicilla (pronounced rye-see-ya) is an agave spirit traditionally produced in Jalisco, Mexico. Often considered a ‘cousin’ of mezcal and Tequila, raicilla has a 400-year-long history. Its unique production process and the specific agave species set it apart, giving it a distinct flavor profile.

The spirit is made from various wild and cultivated agave species, most commonly Agave Maximiliana and Agave Lechuguilla, which grow in Jalisco’s mountainous and coastal regions. Raicilla was initially produced by local farmers and distillers who evaded Spanish colonial taxation by referring to it as something other than mezcal, leading to its unique name – “little root.”

The production process of raicilla follows traditional Mexican artisanal methods. Agave piñas, the heart of the agave plant, are roasted in conventional above-ground ovens or underground pits, fermented naturally in open-air vats, and distilled using copper or ceramic stills. This process captures the distinct flavors of the agave and the specific terroir of Jalisco, resulting in a flavor profile ranging from fruity and floral to earthy and smoky.

Bullmaro Raicilla de la Sierra, Jalisco, 40% ABV, 750 ml was the Best-in-Class Raicilla and the top-ranked Regional Agave Spirit.

Bullmaro Raicilla de la Sierra is a handcrafted raicilla produced in the mountainous region of Jalisco, Mexico. It is crafted using 100% wild agave, which grows in the rugged Sierra region, and traditional production methods.

The raicilla is clear. The nose is complex and aromatic, featuring notes of fresh herbs, citrus peel, and white flowers. There is a hint of earthiness and wet stone, which evokes the natural surroundings of the Sierra region. Subtle aromas of green apple and pineapple add a fruity note, while a delicate smokiness surrounds the aromatic profile.

Bullmaro Raicilla is smooth and medium-bodied on the palate, featuring flavors of cooked agave and citrus zest, mainly lime and grapefruit. There are distinct herbal notes of oregano and eucalyptus and a distinctive smokiness. The smoke is well-integrated and balanced, providing depth without overpowering the agave’s natural sweetness. The wet stone minerality reflects the terroir and adds an earthy quality that enhances the overall complexity.

The finish is long, with lingering citrus, herbal, and smoky notes. The slight peppery spice adds a touch of heat that fades gradually.

The LAWSC described the Raicilla as expressing:

A chewy, crisp texture, offering aromatic notes of fresh apple and lemon, while its light, lactic undertones and dry, acidic finish create a refreshing and intriguing complexity.

Raicilla can be enjoyed neat or on the rocks to savor its complexity or used as a base to add a unique twist to cocktails. It can be used in any drinks that typically use mezcal or Tequila. Pair it with grilled seafood, ceviche, or pork carnitas. Its herbal and smoky qualities complement richly flavored Mexican dishes like mole poblano or barbacoa. Its versatility and depth of flavor make it a perfect companion for exploring the diverse culinary traditions of Mexico.

Overall, Bullmaro Raicilla de la Sierra offers an authentic and approachable introduction to the unique world of raicilla. Its balance of fruit, herbs, smoke, and earthy minerality makes it a captivating spirit, perfect for sipping or mixing. What’s more, its retail price of under $30 makes it a delightful drink and a budget-friendly choice.

The inaugural Latin American World Spirits Competition highlighted an outstanding array of regional agave spirits. Though not widely distributed, many spirits and their associated brands are available in the US. If you are an enthusiast of agave spirits or simply interested in exploring Mexico’s more obscure agave spirits, they are worth seeking.

See the Tasting Alliance web site for a detailed listing of all of the Raicilla and other agave spirits medalists.

Salud