First Mexican whisky is launching in the UK

This is a big moment for the whisky scene in the UK because Casa Lumbre, producer of premium farm-to-bottle spirits, is going to launch Abasolo, a brand of Mexican whisky made from 100 % Mexican Cacahuazintle corn, in the UK.

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You can tell they're serious because they've provided an outstanding number of high-quality photographs to back up their launch and showcase their spirit. I know this may sound banal but it absolutely isn't because several brands fall short on that subject. Visual obsessions aside, Abasolo packs a serious punch in terms of quality and taste as well. It is double-distilled in copper stills and then matured in oak casks and, according to Casa Lumbre, the whisky has flavours of toffee, caramel and roasted corn, and you should drink it with a slice of orange.

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Abasolo, which comes with 43% ABV, is produced at Destilería y Bodega Abasolo, 7,800 feet above sea level. Dr Iván Saldaña, co-founder of of the brand, says that historically "whisky classification has been defined by the traditional Scotch, Irish and American identities, and we are excited to introduce something truly new to the world whisky by highlighting the rich heritage and culture of Mexico."

This product, along with another type of corn liqueur called Casa Lumbre Nixta (30% ABV), is going to be distributed by Mangrove UK. A 700ml bottle of Nixa retails for £29.99, while a 700ml of Abasolo is priced at £34.99 (US$43.50).