Velas Resorts Press Room

New Experience Offers Guests the Opportunity to Connect with the Deep-Rooted Traditions of One of Mexico's Most Distinctive Spirits

    Puerto Vallarta, Mexico (September 20, 2024) - Casa Velas, an adults-only boutique hotel in Puerto Vallarta, invites guests to explore the rich heritage of Mexican spirits with an exclusive new ‘Raicilla Roots' experience. This unique journey offers an in-depth look at raicilla, one of Mexico's oldest and most treasured spirits, with a visit to the agave fields near La Estancia, Jalisco, coupled with an intimate tasting and mixology class onsite in the hotel's botanical garden. 

Raicilla is a traditional spirit that predates tequila and mezcal, tracing its roots back over 400 years. The name comes from the Spanish word raicilla, which means "little root." Distilled from wild agave found in the rugged landscapes of Jalisco, raicilla was historically produced in small batches by local artisans, often in secret due to colonial-era restrictions. Today, it remains a symbol of Mexican cultural heritage, celebrated for its complex, earthy flavors and the artisanal methods that have been passed down through generations. 

Guests staying at Casa Velas can dive deep into raicilla culture through this adventure that begins with a scenic 1.5-hour journey through the Sierra Madre mountains in a Jeep, as guests make their way to the agave fields of Aycya, an up and coming local raicilla producer. Upon arrival, they will be greeted by a master raicillero, who will guide them through the entire process of raicilla making, from the harvesting of the agave to the traditional distillation techniques that give this spirit its unique character. They will then explore Aycya's fields, where the agave plants are cultivated, and visit the artisanal distillery where the magic happens. This immersive tour offers a rare glimpse into the centuries-old methods that define raicilla production, highlighting the care and craftsmanship involved. Following the tour, guests will be treated to an exclusive tasting of four varieties of Aycya Raicilla, each showcasing different flavor profiles—from smoky and earthy to sweet and floral. A highlight, the tasting experience includes a special edition raicilla that is only available to those participating in the tour. 

Back at Casa Velas, the experience continues with a private mixology class in the resort's Botanical Garden. Guided by the in-house mixologist, guests will learn how to craft signature cocktails using the raicilla they've just discovered. The class incorporates fresh herbs and spices picked from the garden, providing a hands-on lesson in creating vibrant, locally-inspired drinks that guests can recreate at home. 

The Raicilla Roots experience includes round-trip transfers to the raicilla fields in a Jeep, a guided tour of Aycya's raicilla fields and artisanal production process, an exclusive tasting of four Aycya raicilla varieties, and a private mixology class in the Casa Velas Botanical Garden. The experience starts at $1,250 USD for two adults. Resort rates at Casa Velas start at $324 per person per night based on double occupancy. For more information, please call 1-888-407-4869 or visit https://www.hotelcasavelas.com/.

About Casa Velas:
Casa Velas is a luxury all-inclusive boutique hotel for adults only in Puerto Vallarta. Reminiscent of a Spanish hacienda, the hotel features 80 spacious suites, some with private pools and Jacuzzis. Nestled on the greens of Marina Vallarta's 18-hole golf course, this Puerto Vallarta hotel offers guests a 25% discount on green fees. Casa Velas' guests have beach access at Táu Beach Club, a relaxed atmosphere overlooking the ocean with infinity pool, delectable cuisine, and event space. ABJA Spa encompasses treatment rooms for singles and couples, a hydrotherapy area, garden-view fitness center, and a beauty salon. Emiliano restaurant is in the hands of one of the area's leading chefs serving Mexican and international cuisine. Casa Velas' concierge, a member of the prestigious Les Clefs d'Or, forges connections with locals and immerses travelers in the rich tapestry of Mexican culture in accordance with individual preferences and interests. Casa Velas was built by Eduardo Vela Ruiz, founder of Velas Resorts, with brother Juan Vela Ruiz, vice president of Velas Resorts, by his side. For reservations or more information please or visit hotelcasavelas.com. Explore tips, recipes, lifestyle and travel trends, and the latest news about Velas Resorts on the digital mag: www.velasmagazine.com.