Spirit Master: Cardenxe Sotol
Originating from northern Mexico, Cardenxe Sotol is a terroir-driven artisanal spirit that combines cultural heritage, art and music.
Recognised by a denomination of origin, Sotol may not be as well-known as other Mexican spirits on the global market, but its unique character makes it a highlight at any gathering.
The spirit is made from the Dasylirion plant, commonly referred to as ‘the desert spoon’. The plant is found in three northern Mexico regions: Chihuahua, Durango, and Coahuila. The small, solitary plant thrives on volcanic rock cliffs at elevations between 3,000 and 6,500 feet and takes 10-15 years to mature.
At The Tequila & Mezcal Masters 2025, one Sotol rose to the top and won a Master medal: Cardenxe Sotol de La Sierra. The spirit impressed the judges for its “earthy and vegetal aromas on the nose, a hint of green capsicum and chilli, creamy and soft on the palate with lovely icing sugar and green vegetal notes, a twist of lime zest, and delicate earthy peppery spices.”
Cardenxe Sotol was founded by three friends. They embarked on a journey to discover the near-extinct Canto Cardenche, a musical genre endemic to northern Mexico. The brand debuted in the US in 2022 and offers three distinctive expressions celebrating the forest, desert, and prairie terroirs.
Sotol de Desierto comes from Coyame, Chihuahua, and is made with a blend of Dasylirion Cedrosanum, Texanum, and Berlandieri. The desert-inspired spirit has a 45% ABV and retails for US$59.99.
Made with 100% Dasylirion Cedrosanum, the Cardenxe Sotol de Pradera originates from the high prairie of Nombre De Dios, Durango. Bottled at 40% ABV, the expression retails for US$79.99.
The Master-winning Cardenxe Sotol de La Sierra is made with 100% Dasylirion Wheeleri from the Sierra Madre Occidental mountains in Ciudad Madera, Chihuahua. The expression is offered at 40% ABV and retails for US$99.99.
Cardenxe Sotol’s bottle design is inspired by the Mexican avant-garde art movement called Estridentismo, which is known for its innovative and boundary-pushing spirit. The design reflects the brand’s mission to inspire people to engage with the story behind each bottle and to let their imaginations run free.
Related news
The Whisky Exchange's new show celebrates agave spirits
