Mezcal maniacs, here’s one for you. This hotel in the Mexican desert isn’t just annexed to distillery (with a near-unlimited amount of mezcal). It’s a spiritual experience for the mezcal-obsessed: the chance to stay in the heart of mezcal country, to witness how the drink is distilled and to immerse yourself in its soul and history.
Set in the mountainous southern Mexican state of Oaxaca, the Casa Silencio is a 16-acre property fashioned out of an old mezcal factory. Its traditional buildings have been kitted out with super-stylish furnishings and host tours that delve into each stage of the production process, from harvesting agave plants to cooking, fermentation and distillation.
But the Casa Silencio is more than just a distillery with a few hotel rooms tacked on. It’s a luxury retreat featuring suites with spa-like bathrooms and design furnishings. Each of the rugs, candles, lamps and other pieces of upholstery is crafted by local craftspeople, with everything intended to allude to the region’s history and traditions.
Even better, the Casa Silencio boasts seriously impressive environmental credentials. The distillery collects and reuses water, dealing less damage to local ecosystems, while all the new buildings are constructed with reclaimed earth and repurposed wood. The Silencio’s thick walls provide natural air conditioning, keeping the building warm in winter and cool in summer.
Enthusiasts of any and all Mexican spirits will be disappointed to learn that the Jose Cuervo Express – an all-you-can-drink tequila train – doesn’t quite come all the way down to Oaxaca. But it’s only a short(ish) flight away, in Guadalajara, so if you’re motivated enough by the promises of almost unlimited tequila and mezcal (and let’s face it, who wouldn’t be?), that’s certainly a possibility.
The Casa Silencio has six luxury suites of varying sizes, with prices starting from $1,000 per room per night. Those who don’t want to stay the night can still enjoy a ‘Mezcal Experience’, featuring a distillery tour, mezcal tasting and five-course dinner, for $250 per person. Find out more on the Casa Silencio website.
More into your vinho? Now take a look inside Porto’s massive new ‘World of Wine’.
Plus: did you know you can drink your way through the Scottish Highlands on a whisky train?