CultureJuly 14, 2026

sotol

/soʊˈtoʊl/

Definition

A distilled spirit made from the fermented heart of the desert spoon plant, a succulent related to agave.

Etymology

The word originates from the Nahuatl term 'tzotollin,' meaning 'the plant that makes the drink.' It entered English through Mexican Spanish to describe both the plant and the distilled spirit produced from it.

In the news

The article highlights the festival's commitment to cultural exchange by hosting traditional sotol producers who share their specific craft and knowledge alongside agave experts. It represents a key regional spirit included in the festival's broader celebration of desert beverage traditions.

Agave Heritage Festival returns to Tucson with tastings, education, and cultural exchange

Read the full article ↗

Tucson Foodie

Related words

Learn a word like this every day

Meet one new word every morning.

Newspoken pulls one carefully chosen word from the day’s news — with a clear definition, context, and light review that makes it stick. Get it on your phone.

Not for marketing. One email on launch day.