Nanakutzi
“Our ancestors perfected the art of mezcal and our duty is to preserve their heritage.”
Background
Founded over 20 years ago by Luz María Saavedra and José Villa in the state of Michoacán. They have inherited the task, passed from generation to generation, of maintaining the tradition of mezcal distillation.
They say it takes a village to raise a child, well the same applies to mezcal. Alongside Luz María’s daughter Elsa (General Director of Nanakutzi), three families support the creation of Nankutzi.
“Nanakutzi” comes from two Purépecha words: “Nana” which means lady or mother and “Kutzi”, the moon goddess.
Nanakutzi work with agaves using a lunar biodynamic system, producing mezcal based on the phases of the moon.
‘Behind every bottle of mezcal there is a story, a struggle, a community.’ Luz María
Luz María, Owner
It’s rare you get the opportunity to work with such an inspirational figure. Part of the first wave of mezcaleras in Michoacán, Luz María Saavedra has had to struggle in a male-dominated industry, fighting against stereotypes. A fight she shares with the other members of the organisation Mujeres de Mezcal y Maguey (Women of Mezcal and Maguey), for which she is the president of the Michoacán chapter.
An agronomist by profession, Luz María began the Nanakutzi project that today is based in the municipality of Villa Madero.
Her passion and belief in preserving the tradition of mezcal and sharing it with the world is infectious. We have learnt so much from her and hope to continue to do so for many years to come.
Mezcals from Nanakutzi
Cupreata Eclipse
Specifications and Process
- Type of agave: Cupreata
- ABV: 43%
- Size: 50cl & 25cl
- Location: San Miguel, Michoacán
- Maestros/as Mezcaleros/as: Octavio Miranda Gómez, Everardo Villa Hernández and Luz María Saavedra
- Roasted: in an earthen pit with volcanic stones
- Fermented: in a wooden vat
- Distilled: twice in a stainless steel still with copper pot and cooler
- Waste: liquid and solid waste from production is composed for use in the family gardens of the community of San Miguel.
Tasting notes
Crystal clear.
On the nose you can detect fruity and woody undertones, reminiscent of a tangerine tree. On the palate, you’ll experience a harmony between its herbal notes and citrus flavours. It leaves your mouth enveloped in lemon tea accompanied by a hint of mint.
Triple Ensamble (joven)
Specifications and Process
- Types of agave: Espadín, Cupreata and Alto
- ABV: 45%
- Size: 50cl & 25cl
- Location: San Miguel, Michoacán
- Maestros/as Mezcaleros/as: Octavio Miranda Gómez, Everardo Villa Hernández and Luz María Saavedra
- Roasted: in an earthen pit with volcanic stones
- Fermented: in a wooden vat
- Distilled: twice in a stainless steel still with copper pot and cooler
- Waste: liquid and solid waste from production is composed for use in the family gardens of the community of San Miguel.
Tasting notes
Bright and transparent to look at, it offers a well rounded body with more than a hint of citrus (mandarin, lime and orange), it also has delightful mineral and herbal notes.
Cupreata Gran Oro
Specifications and Process
- Type of agave: Cupreata
- ABV: 41%
- Size: 50cl & 25cl
- Location: San Miguel, Michoacán
- Maestros/as Mezcaleros/as: Octavio Miranda Gómez, Everardo Villa Hernández and Luz María Saavedra
- Roasted: in an earthen pit with volcanic stones
- Fermented: in a wooden vat
- Distilled: twice in a stainless steel still with copper pot and cooler
- Waste: liquid and solid waste from production is composed for use in the family gardens of the community of San Miguel.
Tasting notes
Clean and bright, crystal clear.
An excellent nose, characterised by delightful smokiness and vibrant fruitiness, featuring hints of peaches, citrus fruit, and elderflower. It is exceptionally harmonious.
The palate offers a smooth and suave experience with a hint of hazelnut, tropical fruit, and beautiful toasted undertones. The lively alcohol presence complements the flavours, resulting in a fat and pleasant texture. It features hints of smoky citrus, stone fruits, ripe banana, delicate smokiness, and a subtle pastry note on the finish.
Awards
It won the Grand Gold Medal from the Concours Mondial de Bruxelles, Spirits Selection, receiving the title of “Revelation of 2023”.
