Near Mexico City Guide / San Patricio Distillery, a project by the founders of the San Patricio Fest

By Cris Hernández / Photos: Courtesy of San Patricio Distillery

In 1847, just before the United States invaded Mexico, a group of Irish soldiers who had been part of the American army deserted, considering the impending war unjust to the Mexican people. These soldiers not only left behind the American army but also joined the ranks of the Mexican army, sharing a deep Catholic faith. The "San Patricio Battalion" was led by Commander John O'Reilly. Most of its members were executed by the American army during the course of the war.

This is one of the stories told by the Cuevas family upon arriving at San Patricio, a family distillery erected in memory of that battalion.

San Patricio is a project created by Gabriel Cuevas and his son Luis Rubén Cuevas, who are also founders, along with César Ramirez, the brand ambassador, of the San Patricio Fest celebrated every March in Mexico City. Their love for Irish culture and whiskey inspired them to open this project in the town of Tlalmanalco, State of Mexico, in a Victorian-style building that perfectly aligns with the brand's vision. Here, they produce 3 different spirits made with water from the Iztaccíhuatl volcano and Mexican malted barley.

Each of their products tells a story

• "Battalion, the whiskey of battle": a straightforward whiskey; a tribute to those soldiers who gave their lives for our country.
• "Gin Claddagh, friendship, loyalty, and love": with its reddish color, distilled with fine botanicals, it's a passionate homage to love, friendship, and loyalty.
• "Paddy, a vodka of good faith": a hoja de acuyo (a type of leaf) infused in each bottle is a tribute to the patron saint of Ireland.

Sláinte!

You can taste these spirits during "The distillery experience," a tour created by this distillery that picks you up in Mexico City to enjoy a day filled with Irish traditions and Celtic culture. Food, spirits tasting, music, and dance, everything is included.

Book your visit through their website, where you can also find cocktail recipes using San Patricio whiskies.

• Location: Tlalmanalco, State of Mexico
• Contact info: 55-1200-0046
• Operating Hours: Saturdays from 10:30 am to 6:00 pm
• Type of Food: Irish
• Payment: Bank transfer
• Accessibility: No ramps available
• Parking: Accessible only via the distillery's transportation (included in the price)
• Reservations: Required, on the website destileriasanpatricio.com.mx
• Nearby Public Transport: Not available
• Pet Friendly: No
• Suitable for Children: No, only adults allowed
• Vegan Options: Not available
• Price: $1,500.00 includes round-trip transportation from Mexico City, 3 drinks, tasting, and meal.