Ancho Chile Reyes Liqueur Set: Ancho Reyes Original + Ancho Reyes Verde

Ancho Reyes Original and Verde are versatile liqueurs that shine in spicy cocktails, particularly those with tequila or mezcal, but they're equally delightful sipped neat or on the rocks for a fiery kick. These warming spirits are perfect for cooler autumn evenings, pairing beautifully with rich, savory dishes like mole, grilled meats, or even dark chocolate desserts that complement their complex, smoky-sweet chile flavors.

Nose: Ancho Reyes Original presents warm, smoky aromas of dried poblano peppers with hints of cinnamon and cocoa. Ancho Reyes Verde offers fresh, grassy notes of roasted green chiles, accompanied by subtle citrus and herb scents.

Palate: The Original delivers a rich, spicy flavor reminiscent of dark chocolate-covered chiles, with undertones of tamarind and cinnamon. Verde provides a bright, vegetal taste of fire-roasted peppers, balanced by light sweetness and a touch of lime zest.

Finish: Ancho Reyes Original leaves a lingering warmth with notes of dried fruit and baking spices. Verde finishes crisp and clean, with a mild pepper heat and hints of fresh herbs. Both expressions offer a pleasant, moderate burn that doesn't overwhelm.

Ancho Reyes Original and Verde are crafted by macerating dried (Original) or fresh (Verde) ancho chiles in a sugar cane spirit base for six months, allowing the peppers' complex flavors to fully infuse. This patient process results in a uniquely balanced liqueur that captures both the heat and subtle sweetness of the ancho chiles, creating a versatile spirit that adds depth and intrigue to cocktails.

• The Ancho Reyes liqueurs are crafted using a century-old recipe from Puebla, Mexico, that was nearly lost to time. It was rediscovered in 2007 and brought back to life, preserving a unique piece of Mexican cocktail history.
• While the Original Ancho Reyes is made from dried poblano peppers, the Verde version uses fresh, green poblanos. This results in a striking difference: the Original has deep, raisin-like notes, while the Verde offers a bright, herbaceous flavor with a hint of bell pepper.
• Both liqueurs undergo a fascinating six-month maceration process where the peppers are hand-sliced and soaked in neutral cane spirit. This patient technique allows for a gradual extraction of flavors, creating a complexity that can't be replicated by artificial flavorings or shortcuts.