Tag: Pulque

While the world's most famous "cactus" spirits—tequila and mezcal—are actually made from the agave plant, a succulent, some true cactus species do indeed produce alcohol. The versatile prickly pear, for instance, is used to create spirits like vodka, brandy, and traditional fermented beverages.

The average alcohol content of the Mexican beverage pulque, made from fermented agave sap, typically ranges from 2% to 7% ABV. However, understanding exactly how much alcohol is in cactus juice depends entirely on the form—whether it's raw, fermented, or distilled.

Archaeological evidence shows maize was first domesticated in Mexico over 7,000 years ago, becoming the single most important crop for the Aztec civilization. This foundational grain was the cornerstone of a complex and nutritious diet, supported by diverse agricultural techniques and ingenuity to sustain their large urban populations.