CHSS - La Pistola Hot Sauce

La Pistola from California Hot Sauce Solutions is a medium-hot smoked strawberry habanero sauce made with applewood-smoked strawberries, tequila, and agave. A collaboration between Paulman Acre and J's Small Batch, it was first developed for the Vista Strawberry Festival and won first place for Fruit Mild/Medium at the 2025 Scovie Awards. Sold in a 5 fl oz bottle.

At a glance

• Type: Smoked strawberry habanero hot sauce
• Maker: California Hot Sauce Solutions (collaboration series)
• Heat level: Medium-hot
• Key ingredients: Applewood-smoked strawberries, habanero, Fresno pepper, tequila, agave
• Size: 5 fl oz
• Award: 2025 Scovie Award, 1st in Fruit Mild/Medium

Best for

• Tossing with chicken wings
• Dressing wraps and sandwiches
• Glazing grilled pork or salmon
• Adding sweet-smoky heat to tacos
• A standout gift for adventurous hot sauce fans

How to use

Toss with wings, brush onto grilled meats and fish, or splash over wraps and sandwiches. The sweet-smoky profile pairs especially well with rich, savory foods.

Flavor profile

Sweet and smoky from applewood strawberries, with fruity habanero heat, the warmth of tequila and agave, and a tangy, layered finish.

About California Hot Sauce Solutions

California Hot Sauce Solutions crafts small-batch, award-winning sauces, including collaboration-series bottles made with other respected makers.

Made by California Hot Sauce Solutions, based in Oceanside, California.

Learn more: Hot Sauce Heat Levels Explained and How Long Does Hot Sauce Last?