PALENQUEROS Tobaziche Juan Hernandez

Initiated by Luca Gargano, the Palenqueros project involves six palenqueros, the master distillers, from the state of Oaxaca. This craft agave distillate made from Tobaziche Maguey comes from San Pedro Taviche, Ocotlàn, Oaxaca, and is produced by Juan Hernandez, a fifth-generation Palenquero. Although Don Juan Hernandez maintains an approach to production based on traditions far removed from scientific knowledge in fermentation and distillation, like many mezcal producers, he creates a high quality distillate from his solid experience. Due to health problems, he is currently handing the business off to his sons Margarito, Agustin and Laurentino. This Pure Single Palenque is a Joven, more commonly known as ‘blanco’: it is clear and comes directly from the still and was bottled at full proof at 46,6% abv. The Palenqueros project focuses on the quality and history of a craft spirit with an ancient tradition and deep roots in the local culture. When crafting this agave distillates collection, the focus goes beyond just the villages or agave varieties — it’s about honoring the palenqueros, the master distillers. Their names are proudly displayed on the labels, with their portraits featured on each bottle, highlighting their craftsmanship. Each product is made by producers who use only wild, pesticide-free cultivated agaves (or maguey), pressed manually. These Pure Single Palenque agave spirits are also bottled at their natural strength, preserving the authenticity of their flavours. This limited-edition series showcases the rich heritage of Oaxaca through the expertise of six of the most artisanal palenqueros.