Free pox tasting every day we're open Bottles to take home Real de Guadalupe 44, San Cristóbal

Artisanal Pox in San Cristóbal de las Casas

Pox (say "posh") is a corn spirit made by the Tzotzil Maya of the Chiapas highlands. We pour nearly 30 flavors, from about 12% to 25% alcohol. Taste 3 free at La Independiente in San Cristóbal de las Casas.

A La Independiente bartender pouring pox into a guest's tasting cup from a row of bottles

What is pox?

A corn spirit with a long history

Pox is distilled from corn, usually with sugar cane and sometimes wheat. It comes from the Tzotzil and Tzeltal Maya communities around San Cristóbal, where it is still poured in ceremonies today. In Tzotzil, the word is tied to medicine and healing.

Ours runs from about 12% to 25% alcohol, depending on the type, so it's easy to taste a few side by side.

The full guide: what is pox? →Pox vs mezcal →

Clear pox being poured into a small tasting cup

Nearly 30 flavors

Pick any 3 of the 12 on the tasting list. Then order a full pour of your favorite, from $75 MXN, or take a bottle home.

Pouring pox for a tasting, with rows of pox bottles on the bar behind

Some of what's on the bar

  • Ceremonial
  • Nanchi
  • Peach
  • Jocote
  • Lime with chia
  • Cacao with chile
  • Cardamom
  • Coconut
  • Mango with chile
  • Apple
  • and more
A La Independiente bartender pouring pox from a row of bottles on the bar

Bottles to take home

Take your favorite home

Bottles of pox, comiteco and mezcal are for sale at the bar, from $220 MXN. Ask after your tasting, or send us a WhatsApp.

Ask about bottles Taste first, free

How to drink pox

  • Straight. That's how we serve it, with nothing on the side.
  • Side by side. The free tasting lets you compare 3 flavors.
  • In a cocktail. Try the Mojito Pox or the Pox Tonic. See the drinks.
  • Paired. At certain times of year we host pairings. Watch our Instagram.
A red pox cocktail with fresh mint, held in front of an old wooden door

Pox questions

What is pox?

Pox (say "posh") is a distilled spirit from the highlands of Chiapas, made mainly from corn. The Tzotzil Maya have made and poured it in ceremonies for generations.

What is pox made from?

Corn, usually with sugar cane and sometimes wheat. Flavored pox is infused with fruit, cacao, spices or chile.

How strong is pox?

The pox on our bar runs from about 12% to 25% alcohol, depending on the type.

How do you drink pox?

Straight, with nothing on the side. Or in a cocktail, like our Mojito Pox or Pox Tonic.

Is pox the same as mezcal?

No. Mezcal is distilled from agave. Pox is distilled from corn, and it comes from the Chiapas highlands.

Where can I try pox in San Cristóbal?

At La Independiente, Real de Guadalupe 44. You taste 3 of 12 pox free, any time we're open, with no booking.

Can I buy a bottle of pox?

Yes. Bottles are for sale at the bar, from $220 MXN.

Taste 3 pox free

Real de Guadalupe 44 · Any time we're open · No booking

How the free tasting worksGet directions