Pox, pronounced “posh,” is an alcoholic distillate associated with Maya communities in Los Altos de Chiapas. It is not simply mezcal: recipes, infusions and alcohol strength vary by producer.
When buying a bottle or booking a tasting, separate cultural references from the commercial product. The cited 2025 official material described pox as moving toward Indicación Geográfica recognition, not as already holding that protection, so check the current status and the bottle’s own information.
What pox is
Federal government information describes pox as an artisanal highland distillate in which maize is central; official descriptions also mention ingredients such as sugar cane, piloncillo, spring water and wheat bran depending on the preparation.
There is no single recipe that represents every producer. Modern commercial versions may also be infused or macerated with herbs and seasonal fruit.
Pox is a distinct Chiapas highland spirit and should not be described simply as a type of mezcal.
Does pox have a protected origin designation?
The official 2025 update cited below does not list pox as an already granted protected designation. In that update, the Chiapas Secretariat of Economy and Labor listed the state’s protected Denominations of Origin separately and described pox as advancing toward recognition as an Indicación Geográfica.
That distinction matters when buying a commercial bottle. “Traditional,” “from Chiapas” or “pox” does not by itself mean the product is covered by a granted Denominación de Origen or Indicación Geográfica in the way that Ámbar de Chiapas or Café Chiapas are.
Because this status can change, check the current IMPI and Chiapas government information before buying a bottle or describing pox as officially protected.
Cultural role
Government and Chiapas tourism sources document pox in prayers, ceremonies and community ritual practices among Maya peoples of Los Altos.
Traditional descriptions also include healing or spiritual beliefs. These are cultural beliefs and practices, not medical claims. Pox is an alcoholic beverage.
A commercial tasting in San Cristóbal is not equivalent to participating in a community ritual.
Pronunciation and alcohol content
Spanish-language sources generally write pox and explain that it is pronounced posh. You may see either spelling on menus and travel pages.
Alcohol strength varies by producer and product, so check the bottle or serving you actually buy rather than assuming one standard percentage.