Introduction: Fidencio Pechuga is a traditional, limited-edition mezcal produced in Santiago Matatlán, Oaxaca, Mexico. Crafted by fourth-generation Maestro Mezcalero Enrique Jiménez, this mezcal undergoes a unique third distillation with the addition of select fruits and a raw chicken breast, following the traditional pechuga production method.

Agave Type:

• Espadín (Agave angustifolia): Estate-grown, harvested at approximately 10 years of age.

Aroma and Flavor Profile:

• Aroma: A complex bouquet featuring notes of banana, quince, and roasted agave, complemented by subtle hints of tropical fruits and spices.
• Flavor: Rich flavors of grilled pineapple and spicy fruit, with undertones of roasted game and a touch of sweet vanilla.
• Finish: A long, smooth finish with a lingering complexity that balances fruitiness and smokiness.

Mouthfeel: Rich and velvety, offering a full-bodied and indulgent texture that enhances the intricate flavor profile.

Cook Time: Approximately 3 days.

Rest Time After Cook: Not specified.

Distillery and Production Details Including NOM Number:

• Maestro Mezcalero: Enrique Jiménez.
• Location: Santiago Matatlán, Oaxaca, Mexico.
• NOM Number: NOM-O15X.
• Production Process:
  • Cooking: Agave hearts are roasted in a traditional earthen pit oven lined with volcanic rock, using black oak (encino) as fuel, imparting a distinctive smoky character.
  • Milling: Crushed under a tahona, a large stone wheel made of rose quartz, powered by a horse.
  • Fermentation: Open-air fermentation in pine vats utilizing wild, native yeasts, lasting approximately 6 days, though this can vary with temperature.
  • Distillation: Double distilled in a wood-fired alembic still. For the pechuga expression, a third distillation is performed with the addition of a traditional mixture of fruits—quince, apples, bananas, pineapple, and guava—all sourced from the mountains of Oaxaca. A whole chicken breast (skinned and washed to remove fat) is hung from the cap of the still during this distillation, a practice believed to soften the intensity and round out the flavor of the mezcal.

Farming Practices: Fidencio Mezcal employs biodynamic farming practices, harvesting agave during the new moon, a tradition believed to influence the flavor profile of the mezcal. The estate-grown Espadín agaves are allowed to reach full maturity, typically around 10 years, ensuring optimal sugar content and complexity.

Overall Impressions: Fidencio Pechuga is a remarkable expression that showcases the artistry and tradition of mezcal production in Oaxaca. Its intricate blend of fruit and savory notes, combined with a rich, velvety mouthfeel, offers a unique and memorable tasting experience. This limited-edition mezcal is a testament to the dedication and craftsmanship of Maestro Mezcalero Enrique Jiménez and is highly regarded among mezcal enthusiasts seeking an authentic and complex spirit.