​Sotol is an upscale cowboy spirit you must try

Who would think Texas would be in the business of making spirits – and doing it right smack dab in the middle of Texas Wine Country? Wine yes, but spirits? Yup. And one of its most popular spirits is something called "Sotol".

As background premium spirits are being produced throughout Texas, including unbelievable vodka and tasty whiskey. Many tequila producers also come from Texas, but in order for tequila to be tequila, it must come from Mexico.

Speaking of tequila style spirits, there's one that deserves to be showcased, Sotol. Think herbaceous front notes with a smooth sweet finish. It's all grass and earth on the nose with a tantalizing touch of natural vanilla. Going deeper there's toffee, mint, and citrus on the palate. You'll like the minerality finish and a whiff of eucalyptus. There's many ways to serve it (just like tequila)…straight up or with a variety of mixes, but drink it straight first in a  Copitas cup to know the true taste of this special spirit (80 proof. About $50) 

One of the best Texas Sotols is hand crafted in Driftwood, TX, from wild-harvested West Texas sotol plants. The Desert Door Original Texas Sotol is a premium spirit with a definite sense of taste and place. The sweet citrusy and herbal flavor might be considered a desert gin crossed with a smooth sipping tequila. #1 craft distillery in America – USA TODAY – 2019. It's also a Gold medal winner- Denver International Spirits Competition 2020.

Desert Door Distillery

The Dessert Door Distillery is located in Driftwood, TX, on the eastern edge of Wild Sotol Country. Desert Door is available for purchase in their tasting room and in select locations across Texas, Colorado, Tennessee, Georgia, California and beyond. You can also order online for delivery in select states.

Recipe

Desert Door Original Sotol is as versatile as a vodka or gin, but far more intriguing and complex. It's organic and gluten-free. Take it for a taste spin with this cool thirst- quenching recipe.

SEASONAL RIVER RITA (BATCH - SERVES 8-10)

15 oz Desert Door Original Texas Sotol

15 oz White Cranberry Juice

5 oz Fresh Lime Juice

2.5 oz Agave Nectar

Rosemary, Cranberries, and Salt (Optional)

Add juices, sotol, and agave to punch bowl or pitcher. Stir vigorously. Top with cranberries and rosemary. Optionally, salt the rims of serving glasses.main text of your feature here...