Del Que Toma el Cardenal: Preserving Tradition and Culture Through Heirloom Spirits

​In the world of mezcal, where tradition and craftsmanship are highly valued, Del Que Toma el Cardenal shines as a beacon of authenticity. Founded in 2014 by a passionate group of independent Mexican spirits producers, this cooperative is dedicated to keeping traditional mezcal practices alive while preserving the ancestral legacy of their families. Situated in the picturesque municipality of Santo Domingo Albarradas, nestled in Oaxaca's Valles Centrales region, Del Que Toma el Cardenal follows a set of rigorous rules that go beyond the standard criteria for mezcal certification. Let's delve into the fascinating journey of this cooperative and explore the essence of their heirloom spirits.
Honoring Ancestral Legacy:
Del Que Toma el Cardenal stands as a testament to the deep respect these producers have for their ancestral legacy. Passed down through generations, the wisdom and knowledge surrounding agave spirits are safeguarded and celebrated within this cooperative. By adhering to a strict set of rules, Del Que Toma el Cardenal ensures that the traditional practices and techniques that have shaped the mezcal industry are upheld and cherished.
Meticulous Production Process:
Every step of Del Que Toma el Cardenal's production process is executed with meticulous care, reflecting their unwavering commitment to quality. The cooperative's dedication begins with the selection of only mature agave plants, ensuring a depth of flavor that captures the true essence of mezcal. To honor tradition, these agave plants are cooked in wood ovens, utilizing stones sourced from nearby rivers. This unique method imparts a distinct smoky character, adding complexity and depth to the final product.
The piñas, or hearts of the agave plants, undergo a traditional grinding process in a tahona. Pulled by a mule, the stone wheel of the tahona gently crushes the piñas, extracting their precious juices without compromising the flavors. This time-honored method highlights the cooperative's commitment to preserving craftsmanship and authenticity.
Fermentation and Distillation Excellence:
Del Que Toma el Cardenal takes pride in their fermentation process, which occurs in oak tubs without the addition of any chemicals. This natural fermentation allows the flavors to develop slowly, resulting in a mezcal that truly reflects the terroir, agave variety, and the purity of the water used. The cooperative's dedication to using traditional methods and ingredients is a testament to their unwavering commitment to producing exceptional mezcal.
The final distillation is carried out in copper pot stills, a time-honored tradition that ensures the highest quality of the spirit. Copper's unique properties play a crucial role in purifying the mezcal, removing impurities while allowing the distinct characteristics of the spirit to shine through. The expertise and craftsmanship of the producers are showcased in every bottle of Del Que Toma el Cardenal.
Preserving Tradition and Culture:
Led by the experienced guidance of Don Fortunato Santiago Pérez, a third-generation maestro from a family of mezcal producers native to the region, Del Que Toma el Cardenal encapsulates the rich cultural heritage of Oaxaca's mezcal production. Through their commitment to preserving tradition and culture, this cooperative goes beyond creating a mezcal; they provide a gateway to the ancestral wisdom and multi-generational legacy that has shaped the spirit.
A Welcomed Addition at Aroma Thyme:
At Aroma Thyme, we take immense pride in introducing Del Que Toma el Cardenal to our menu. Beyond being a mezcal, this cooperative agave-spirits project represents a profound connection to tradition, culture, and the preservation of heritage. Each sip of Del Que Toma el Cardenal invites you to embark