Volcanic soils are some of the most fertile on earth. Volcanic ash deposits in the region surrounding Popocatepetl (Aztec for "Smoking Mountain") Mexico's 2nd highest Volcano make the region very suitable for agriculture. The land has been cultivated for centuries -- the fertile volcanic soils led to the rise and prosperity of indigenous civilizations (several of which were later destroyed by large eruptions) prior to European contact. The volcano’s soil is rich with nutrients like silica and potassium, which are vital for the development of the leaf and the heart of the agave. This volcanic earth also contains obsidian lava rock, which produces a naturally aerated soil that the roots of the agave plant can easily penetrate.
Corn and beans are the primary crops in the volcanic highlands, but Agave, coffee, avocados, and various other subtropical fruits are grown as well.
The Agaves are harvested at the base of the majestic Volcano Popocateptl. Temperatures here tend to be less extreme, allowing the agave to expand and contract and the juices to flow through the plant, producing floral and sweet characteristics in the nose of our Mezcal.
Geographical stipulations exist for deeming an agave spirit a Mezcal. PUEBLA is one of the regions allowed to produce Mezcal. Nuku is distilled from Espadin agave grown in volcanic soil. We roast the heart of the plant (piña) in stone-lined pits before fermenting, providing it with a slightly smokey and more robust flavor.
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