Palalma Sonora Lechuguilla 750ML

Palalma Sonora Lechuguilla

Wild Spirit of the Sonoran Desert

Experience the untamed essence of the Sonoran Desert with Palalma Sonora Lechuguilla. This exceptional destilado de agave is crafted by the esteemed maestro mezcalero Fidel Lagarda Burgos in Milpillas, Sonora, using the wild-harvested Agave bovicornuta, locally known as Lechuguilla. This agave, resilient and expressive of its arid environment, yields a spirit with a truly distinctive character.

The production of this Lechuguilla is a testament to tradition and resourcefulness. The agave hearts are slowly cooked in an underground pit oven, imparting smoky depths to the spirit. Following the cook, the baked agave is painstakingly milled by hand using mallets, a labor-intensive process that honors ancestral techniques. Fermentation occurs naturally in rawhides, a unique method that contributes to the spirit’s complexity. Finally, the fermented mash is distilled in a converted truck radiator still, a testament to the ingenuity and adaptation found in traditional mezcal production.

Palalma is a curated selection from Erick Rodriguez, the renowned “Indiana Jones of Mezcal” behind Almamezcalera. His tireless exploration of Mexico’s diverse agave regions brings forth unique and authentic spirits like this Lechuguilla, showcasing the artistry and terroir of Sonora.

Tasting Notes:

• Aroma: Opens with a captivating bouquet of smoky earth and wild herbs, reminiscent of desert brush after a rain shower. Subtle notes of leather and a hint of game mingle with a bright, almost citrusy lift. A whisper of something subtly metallic adds intrigue, a nod to its unconventional still.
• Palate: The entry is bold and rustic, delivering a pronounced smoky flavor that is both earthy and slightly sweet. Distinct vegetal notes of roasted agave and a touch of bitterness unfold, characteristic of Lechuguilla. A surprising minerality cuts through the richness, leading to a mid-palate with hints of black pepper and a wild, untamed quality.
• Finish: The finish is long and warming, with the smoky notes lingering alongside a dry, herbaceousness. A subtle sweetness reappears, balanced by a persistent earthy undertone and a fascinating hint of the spirit’s unique distillation.

Palalma Sonora Lechuguilla offers a glimpse into the rugged beauty and resourceful traditions of Sonoran agave spirits. It’s a bold and complex spirit for adventurous palates seeking an authentic and unforgettable experience.