Santa Catarina Minas, Oaxaca

Santa Catarina Minas, located in Oaxaca, Mexico, is a village renowned for its rich mezcal-making heritage. This community is distinguished by its traditional production methods, particularly the use of clay pot distillation, which imparts unique flavors to the mezcal. Notable producers such as Mezcal Lalocura, led by Maestro Eduardo "Lalo" Ángeles, continue to uphold these ancestral techniques, offering a range of mezcals that reflect the region's terroir and artisanal craftsmanship. Visitors to Santa Catarina Minas can explore local palenques (mezcal distilleries), engage with master distillers, and experience firsthand the meticulous process of crafting mezcal, from harvesting agave to fermentation and distillation. The village's dedication to preserving traditional mezcal production makes it a significant destination for enthusiasts seeking an authentic taste of Oaxaca's mezcal culture.