Xaaga, Oaxaca
Casa Silencio
Noteable Amenities
Location
When thinking about Oaxaca, one might immediately consider its culinary scene, with dishes showcasing flavours of centuries-old recipes. But the landscape is equally remarkable, ranging from the majestic Sierra Madre mountains to the serene Pacific coastline. The region boasts intricate crafts, vibrant festivals, and a deeply-rooted indigenous heritage.
Its uniqueness also lies in its mezcal heritage, producing the world-renowned agave spirit. It's what forms the very concept for Casa Silencio, brought to you by the minds behind Mezcal El Silencio.
Just 45 miles southeast of the City of Oaxaca, in the Valley of Xaaga, this eco-minded retreat spans 9.5 acres, celebrating everything that makes Oaxaca great: tradition, innovation, and an enduring connection to its roots.
When here, take a guided tour of Xaaga and greater Oaxaca, which can be organised by the hotel. The property also becomes an inviting spot for non-residents, offering distillery tours and tastings.
Design
In shaping the boutique hotel, Cisneros and Zapata teamed up with Mexican architect Alejandro D'Acosta, known for his sustainable methods. Drawing inspiration from Oaxaca, Mexico's wine regions, and Scottish distilleries, the result is a grand, immersive space that honours local history.
Here, sustainability that does not compromise style is exemplified, blending ancient and modern techniques with local materials, like rammed earth walls and recycled wood ceilings. Solar panels power the entire property, as the team practices a 'no-waste' policy, even reusing rainwater.
The entrance reveals monolithic sculptures leading to communal spaces, plunge pools, bonfire pits, and mezcal production areas. Inside, interior designer Martina D'Acosta infuses the local artisanal flair with furnishings, artwork, and decor crafted by Oaxacan artisans. The library, filled with works by Mexican creators, and the use of natural materials echo the 'defiant spirit' of Oaxaca.
Rooms
The six expansive guest rooms are spread over two levels, equipped with bespoke art, textiles and decor that pay homage to the mezcal production process. Noteworthy touches include burnt wood furnishings, distressed leather, handwoven rugs and the signature copper lanterns.
Select suites span two floors, featuring inviting lounges adorned with fireplaces. The bathrooms are complete with walk-in showers and monolith stone sinks. A highlight in one of the bathrooms is a mosaic wall of recycled El Silencio bottles, which form the brand image logo of an alebrije—a Mexican folk art of mystical creatures.
Food & Drink
At Casa Silencio, dining is an authentic Oaxacan adventure. It takes place in an indoor-outdoor seating space, which features a 53-foot-long communal table carved from a 17-tonne piece of hand-cut basalt. Seating up to 45 guests, the table stretches from the heart of the dining area to the outdoor patio, sheltered by a wooden canopy inspired by alebrijes.
Headed by Executive Chef Daniel Robles Sumano, whose culinary journey encompasses restaurants in Paris, Belgium, and Barcelona, the multi-course feasts are truly spectacular.
But you don't just come here for the food. Of course not. You come primarily for the mezcal experience, which doesn't disappoint.
To write about the distillery would require a whole other article, but to sum it up, it's the operational heart of the hotel. The production method of El Silencio involves above-ground roasting of agave piñas for four to six days, reducing the labour load. Here, a motorised system powered by solar energy replaces traditional animal-driven methods, making the 1,000-pound tahona turn. The agave pulp ferments in barrel-like 'vats', becoming alcohol. Double distillation produces Mezcal El Silencio—an artisanal delight.
Private mezcal tastings can be arranged, and are complemented by delectable bites curated by Rodolfo Castellanos, winner of Top Chef Mexico and proprietor of Origen, one of Oaxaca's premier dining establishments.
