Alcohol holds great cultural significance for humanity, and Guatemala is no exception. In this country, one particular spirit not only lingers in the memories of locals but is also deeply woven into the nation’s culture and history – Quetzalteca.
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WHAT IS QUETZALTECA?
Quetzalteca is Guatemala’s most iconic aguardiente. Essentially a type of rum, it is produced by Industrias Licoreras de Guatemala, a company founded by Spanish immigrants in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. With such a long history, it has become a staple in Guatemalan drinking culture.
HOW DOES QUETZALTECA TASTE?
Traditional Quetzalteca is a strong spirit made from fermented and distilled sugarcane, with an alcohol content of 40%. It is an affordable drink, particularly popular among the working class.
In recent years, Industrias Licoreras de Guatemala has introduced flavoured varieties of Quezalteca, infusing it with lemon, orange, hibiscus, grape, and tamarind. Thanks to its reasonable price and enjoyable taste, it has gained popularity across all social groups.
As a high-proof spirit, with an alcohol content ranging from 25% to 60%, it is also commonly used in cocktails. Its unique flavour profile adds a distinctive touch to mixed drinks, making it a favourite among drinkers and mixologists in Guatemala and beyond.
WHAT DOES QUETZALTECA LOOK LIKE?
Quetzalteca can be found in shops across Guatemala, and its most distinctive feature is the beautifully designed label. The bottle showcases an image of a Mayan woman dressed in traditional clothing, holding a bottle Quezalteca. This iconic design is so well-crafted that many tourists take the bottle home as a souvenir.
However, this very design has also led to it being given the unfortunate nickname Indita, a derogatory term historically used to refer to Indigenous women. Although more and more people have called for abandoning this nickname over time, well… old habits die hard.
Despite this, the label remains a powerful representation of Guatemala’s Indigenous heritage and the enduring influence of the Mayan culture.
THE CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE OF QUETZALTECA
The word Quetzalteca itself signifies a strong spirit, but it actually derives from Guatemala’s national bird, the quetzal. In early Mayan civilisation, the Maya used the rare and precious quetzal feathers as currency. This historical significance lives on today, as Guatemala’s official currency is also called the quetzal.
Moreover, during early Mayan religious ceremonies, fermented and distilled sugarcane alcohol was often consumed – this was the precursor to Quezalteca. As part of these rituals, it holds particular cultural importance for the K’iche’ people of Xela (Quetzaltenango in Spanish), where Mayan traditions remain deeply rooted.
Today, Quezalteca is not a drink; it is a cultural icon. It is often served during festivals, family gatherings, and religious celebrations, symbolising unity and tradition. For many Guatemalans, a bottle of Quezalteca is a reminder of their heritage and a way to connect with their ancestors.
CONCLUSION
Quetzalteca is more than just a beverage -it is a reflection of Guatemala’s culture and history. From its origins in the highlands of Quetzaltenango to its role in Mayan rituals, this iconic spirit tells a story of tradition, resilience and national pride.
If you ever get the chance to taste this national spirit, you’ll not only experience its unique flavour but also the rich stories behind it. And who knows? After a few drinks, you might even start to see an ancient Mayan ritual unfold before your eyes!
YPT can take you to the homeland of Quetzaltec, Guatemala. We also offering adventure travel experiences across Central America. You can find out more on our international tour page!
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