Cholula Hot Sauce

A Hot Sauce with Deep Roots in Mexican Flavor

Cholula Hot Sauce is one of the most recognized hot sauce brands in the world, known for its distinctive wooden cap, vibrant packaging, and perfectly balanced flavor. With its origins in Mexico, Cholula combines two native chili varietiesArbol and Piquinwith vinegar, garlic, cumin, oregano, and other spices to create a sauce that is moderately spicy and full of character.

Unlike many fiery sauces that aim for maximum heat, Cholulas charm lies in its layered flavorspicy, tangy, and aromatic with a whisper of smokiness. Its versatility allows it to complement a wide range of cuisines, from traditional Mexican to American classics and even Asian dishes.

Named After a City of Great Antiquity

The sauces name, Cholula, pays homage to the city of the same name in the Mexican state of Puebla. Cholula is one of the oldest continually inhabited cities in the Americas, with a history that stretches back more than 2,500 years. The city is rich in cultural, culinary, and spiritual heritage, and the name choice reflects the brands connection to Mexican identity.

Despite the ancient name, the sauce itself was not created in ancient times, but rather developed in the early 20th century. Its precise origin remains somewhat mysterious, though many believe it was initially developed by the Jose Cuervo family, famed for their tequila. The recipe was later passed on to the Harrison family, who formally gave the sauce its now-iconic name and began bottling it for commercial sale.

Crafted with Native Mexican Ingredients

The original Cholula recipe uses a blend of:

• Chili de Arbol: Long, slender red peppers known for their bright, intense heat
• Piquin peppers: Small, round chilis that deliver sharp spice and complexity
• Vinegar and salt: Provide acidity and preservation
• Garlic, cumin, and oregano: Add layers of savory depth and herbal aroma

The result is a hot sauce that is flavor-forward, with a Scoville rating of 1,000 to 2,000 SHU. That puts Cholula in the medium heat rangemore assertive than a bell pepper but significantly milder than a Thai chili or habanero. This makes it ideal for everyday use, enhancing food without overwhelming it.

A Design That Honors Mexican Tradition

Part of what sets Cholula apart visually is its classic glass bottle topped with a round wooden cap. Far from being purely decorative, the cap is functionalit allows for precision pouring while also providing a natural, rustic feel that evokes handcrafted quality.

The label features a portrait of a Mexican woman in traditional dress, further grounding the brand in Mexican heritage and identity. The vivid colors and bold typography reflect the festive energy and cultural richness of Mexico. This commitment to aesthetic detail has helped Cholula become instantly recognizable on shelves around the world.

A Culinary Star in the United States and Beyond

Cholula Hot Sauce made its way to the U.S. market in 1989 and quickly gained popularity thanks to its versatility. It wasnt just another hot sauceit was a culinary tool that could be drizzled over eggs, stirred into soups, blended into dressings, or even added to cocktails like the Bloody Mary.

Its appeal extended beyond Mexican food enthusiasts to chefs, bartenders, and home cooks alike. People appreciated Cholulas balanced profile, which allowed it to enhance food without masking flavors.

A New Chapter in Global Expansion

In 2018, Cholula was acquired by L Catterton, a U.S.-based private equity firm that saw its global potential. Just two years later, in 2020, the brand was purchased by McCormick & Companyone of the largest spice and flavoring companies in the worldin an $800 million deal. This acquisition allowed Cholula to expand into over 20 countries, growing from a regional favorite to an international staple.

Even under corporate ownership, Cholula continues to promote its Mexican roots, maintaining its recipe integrity and cultural symbolism in every bottle.

Flavor Innovations: More Than Just the Original

While the Original Cholula remains the flagship product, the brand has expanded its offerings to cater to different palates. Today, there are six Cholula flavors, each featuring a unique wooden cap color for easy identification:

• Original Classic red cap, the balanced standard
• Green Pepper A tangy blend with jalapeños and poblano peppers
• Chipotle Smoky and rich with earthy depth
• Chili Lime Zesty and refreshing
• Chili Garlic Bold, garlicky heat
• Sweet Habanero Sweet-spicy fusion with fruity heat
  Each variant retains Cholulas commitment to flavor balance, avoiding overwhelming spice and focusing instead on taste, texture, and aroma.
  
  
  A Taste of Culture in Every Drop
  What truly sets Cholula apart is its role as more than just a condimentits a representation of Mexican history, culinary creativity, and cultural pride. From its humble origins in Puebla to its global reach today, Cholula continues to honor the traditions it came from while adapting to modern kitchens and dining tables.
  
  Available at all Rimping Supermarket branches, Cholula Hot Sauce brings authentic Mexican spice and story to your tableone wooden-capped bottle at a time.