San Agustín de las Junta · Oaxaca · Mexico

Sierra Norte is a pioneering Mexican whiskey handcrafted in Oaxaca by master distiller Douglas French. Distilled from Oaxacan heirloom corns, then aged in French oak casks, each single-barrel expression beautifully showcases regional terroir and the nuanced character of each grain variety.

1996

1550m

10km

Established

Elevation

South of Oaxaca

Master Distiller Douglas French founded Sierra Norte Distilling in 1996 to fulfill his passion for transforming native Mexican corn into outstanding whiskies that reflect the rich terroir of Oaxaca. The expressions are defined by the varietal and specific color of the corn used. Each indigenous variety is separately distilled and bottled as a single-barrel release to highlight the unique flavor profile of the grain. The distillates are then matured in French oak casks, creating a series of spirits that highlight the individuality of the grain and terroir.

French uses single-barrel bottling to showcase each corn’s nuanced, individual character. Distilled in stainless steel and copper pot stills, then matured in French oak, Sierra Norte whiskies embody the union of tradition, innovation, and regional authenticity.

White Corn Whiskey

Sweet buttered corn, toasted spice, green corn husks, and peanuts aroma. Sweet, gentle, and refreshing, bathed in honey, with dried peel, and a late sensation of charred oak, toast, and peppercorn.

Yellow Corn Whiskey

Opens with sweet corn, blue iris, and dried chilies. Fresh and fruity, orange marmalade, honey oozing into maple syrup, as the smooth layers shift to pepper and chili heat ahead of a spicy honey finish.

Black Corn Whiskey

Floral Maximiliana agave, known as Lechuguilla. A bouquet of light citrus and desert flower joined by notes of hibiscus, beach plum, and pineapple. Delicate and intricate flavor profile that shows the diverse potential of the agave plant.

Red Corn Whiskey

A dry and spicy nose with graham cracker, cornbread, red licorice, buttered corncobs. Flavors of fruit concentrate, red bell pepper, baked orange, clove, star anise, and toffee, then a slightly vegetal finish.

Purple Corn Whiskey

Pepper and allspice light up with savory brisket notes, star anise, a dry nuttiness. Stewed apple, red currant and pomegranate, and late caramel sweetness. Throbbing, gum-tingling heavy clove notes with toffee and red licorice.

Oaxacan Rainbow Corn Whiskey

Notes of sweet corn, dried fruits, and spices, while the palate is rich and full-bodied, with flavors of honey, toasted oak, and a hint of pepper. The finish is long and smooth, with a hint of vanilla and a subtle sweetness.