To begin with, it must be said that Michoacán, cradle of ancestral traditions and unparalleled landscapes, is positioned as one of the most important states in the production of artisanal mezcal and in Etúcuaro, it has its home. Come and discover the cupreata variety of mezcal, the most famous in this region.
Agave cupreata, a treasure from the heights of Etúcuaro
The agave cupreata, also known as maguey papalote, thrives in stony soils and temperate climates, characteristics that predominate in the Michoacan mountains at 1,600m above sea level, where Etúcuaro is located, in the municipality of San Francisco.
This agave takes approximately 8 to 12 years to mature, a period in which it absorbs the essences of the soil, water and environment, giving the mezcal a complex flavor profile.
Etúcuaro, flavors that speak of Michoacán
The cupreata mezcal with complex flavors is recognized for its intense and herbal nuances, with smoky notes and fruity touches. When tasting it, it is possible to identify light aromas of pineapple and fresh herbs, accompanied by a robust texture that delights the palate.
Its distinctive character has conquered mezcal lovers in Mexico and the world, becoming a symbol of the artisanal wealth of Michoacán.
The artisanal process, the magic of tradition
The importance of its artisanal wealth lies in the production because it follows ancestral methods where the agave is cooked in volcanic stone ovens, ground with a machete and fermented in wooden vats before being distilled in copper stills.
History in every drop
In Michoacán, mezcal is a cultural expression that unites communities and celebrates the connection with the land. When you enjoy a cupreata mezcal, you can taste the history and effort of the mezcal masters who dedicate their lives to preserving this tradition.
Luis Peagui
A case in point is Jaime Villa Miranda, master mezcal maker of Lágrimas de Yunuén, who, in addition to following the artisanal process in the jima, cooking, mashing, fermentation and distillation times, follows the tradition of cutting it on a full moon, because it contains less water and better concentrates the flavors of the agave.
Drowned mezcal? A special case
For the inhabitants of the P’urépecha Meseta, water has a sacred value that is reflected in myths and rituals. This is the case of the island of Yunuén and the legend of Princess Japunda, where the lake welcomed the sacrifice of its princess to save the town from invaders, an action that was rewarded with her return to earth, in the form of a white heron.
Planting mezcal at the bottom of the lake
In the mystical lake of Pátzcuaro, the drowning and venting of a mezcal takes place, which rests submerged in the lake, impregnating itself with the secrets of the earth and time.
At dusk on November 1, it is submerged in water to allow it to age, within the framework of a P’urépecha planting ceremony.
Later, for a period of one to three years, it is recovered or ‘vented’ with another ritual dedicated to the 7 directions and the 4 elements, which mark the sacred moment.
Why submerge a drink under water
Submerging mezcal under water is an example of how tradition and innovation can merge to offer new experiences to the world of distilled beverages because bottles that have aged under water are usually unique and attractive to collectors.
Visit the mezcal routes in Etúcuaro, Michoacán
In short, if you want to experience the mezcal route in Etúcuaro, tastings are the best option to discover the secrets of this emblematic drink and also enjoy adventure activities in the surroundings, such as the lookout, the zip line, the suspension bridge and the famous vacuum swing.
Enjoy this drink with respect and responsibility, honoring the cultural wealth that Michoacán brings to the world, with your heart.
Source: mexicodesconocido
