Spirits Tasting with Jorge Caldera of Sotol Parejo

Jorge Caldera of Sotol Parejo is our guide on this Sunday afternoon tasting.
Join us for an exclusive sotol tasting event with the renowned Jorge Caldera of Sotol Parejo! Discover this historic spirit and learn from one of the most passionate in the industry. Hear about the producers behind each bottle, the plants and processes that makes each special, and learn about the cultural history that we all work to keep alive. The basement private tasting room at BARCOA Agaveria provides the perfect setting for this unforgettable experience. Don't miss out on this opportunity to expand your knowledge and palate with these one-of-a-kind spirits. Reserve your spot now!
TASTING FORMAT
Tastings take place from 4-6pm in small groups. Each lasts about 30 minutes. If you arrive and seats are full, a sample cocktail and chips & salsa will keep you company. Feel free to arrive earlier and grab a drink in the Cantina. We will taste 6 expressions from Sotol Parejo.
SOTOL PAREJO BACKGROUND
Parejo was founded by Jorge Caldera, who has devoted 13 years to studying the native spirits of Chihuahua, throughout that time meeting producers and building friendships. For many years, viñatas (distilleries where sotol is produced) were considered illegal by the government. Because of this, Jorge found that a shared struggle existed among the maestros. Unfortunately, their craft was considered taboo.

He first found himself with maestros from the desert, in hidden towns seemingly in the middle of nowhere but connected through the joyous simplicity of their lives. Later, he went to the forests and spent time with maestros who held a long and rich history in sotol production. He absorbed their stories and they became a sort of extended family for him. He then encountered maestros from the tropical areas of Chihuahua who continued to craft lechuguilla using traditional methods. All of these experiences added to his understanding, appreciation, and love for the spirits of his homeland.

The goal of Parejo from the outset was to recapture the historical taste of sotol, which has become like an endangered species. Conversations with vinateros revealed a recurring term: “PAREJO.” It became clear that this word was used to describe great sotol, and Jorge wanted to share that perfection. He works directly with the producers, immersing himself in every aspect of sotol and lechuguilla production – from the plant to the perlas. https://www.parejosotol.com

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