MX Rums Caldo

Originally a maker of unrefined sugar known as panela, first-generation aguardientero Orlando Vásquez crafts this aguardiente from the fresh juice (“caldo”) of two cane varieties (290 and CP421) prized for their high sugar content and quick growth. Orlando began distilling aguardiente in 2015; he uses a four-plate, continuous copper still heated by firewood.

Truffle, charcoal smoke, vinegar and wood glue on the palate. Mandarin, roasted cherries and smoked berry jam on the palate.