Hot Shots Blog

Vic Clinco: The Man Behind the World’s Largest Hot Sauce Collection

For many, hot sauce is just a condiment. But for Vic Clinco, it’s a passion—a fiery obsession that has earned him a spot in the record books as the owner of the world’s largest privately-owned hot sauce collection. With well over 11,000 bottles (and counting), Clinco’s collection isn’t just impressive; it’s a journey through the rich history and culture of hot sauce. It stands as a testament of his passion for spicy food and truly stands a s a museum or shrine to the global hot sauce community,  

The Origins of a Spicy Obsession

Clinco’s love for heat started simply enough: as a fan of spicy foods. Over time, that interest grew into an appreciation for the diverse flavors, cultures, and artistry behind hot sauces. What began as a small personal stash quickly escalated into a full-blown collection spanning decades, continents, and countless brands.

Vic credits his wife with inspiring his collection. On their honeymoon, she gifted him a several bottle as Christmas gifts, he lined them up on a shelf which sparked the collecting flame. Shortly after Clinco discovered The Great Hot Sauce Book from author Jennifer Trainer Thompson, blowing his mind and opening his eyes to the global hot sauce industry, sparking a lifelong journey to seek out the unique, the exotic, and the downright scorching from literally every corner of the planet. 

Inside the Collection

Housed in his High Point, North Carolina home, Clinco’s collection is a sight to behold. Shelves line the walls, packed with bottles of every shape, size, and color imaginable. Some bottles are humble, while others are ornate, with quirky labels and eye-catching designs.

Highlights include:

• Rare and Vintage Bottles: From small-batch creations to sauces no longer in production, Vic’s collection serves as a living history of hot sauce evolution.
• Celebrity-Backed Sauces: His shelves feature sauces created by hot sauce-loving celebrities, adding a pop-culture twist to his stash.
• Themed Collections: Clinco curates' specific sub-collections, such as bottles shaped like skulls or themed around movie franchises.

Each bottle tells a story, whether it’s a sauce from a far-flung country or a limited-edition release that’s nearly impossible to find.

More Than a Collection

For Clinco, his collection is more than just a hobby—it’s a way to connect with a community of fellow hot sauce enthusiasts. He regularly shares his passion with others, whether through media appearances, events, or simply by welcoming guests into his home to marvel at the collection.

Clinco also champions the artistry behind hot sauce, showcasing how it reflects different cultures, culinary traditions, and creative innovations. His collection isn’t just about heat—it’s about flavor, history, and storytelling.

The Future of the Collection

As the hot sauce world continues to grow, so does Clinco’s collection. He constantly searches for new sauces to add, scouring markets, festivals, and online communities for the next rare find. Despite its massive size, the collection is meticulously maintained, with each bottle cataloged and preserved as a piece of art.

While he has no immediate plans to turn his collection into a museum, fans often suggest it. For now, Vic is content to share his passion one fiery bottle at a time, inspiring others to explore the world of hot sauce.

Lessons from a Life of Heat

Vic Clinco’s journey offers more than just a look at hot sauce—it’s a testament to the joy of pursuing a passion. His collection reminds us that hobbies can open doors to new communities, cultural appreciation, and a lifetime of exploration.

So next time you drizzle some hot sauce on your food, think about the stories behind that bottle. And who knows? You might just find yourself starting a collection of your own.

Do you have a favorite hot sauce? Let us know in the comments, and let’s celebrate the love of heat together!

Colorado vs. New Mexico Chile Peppers: A Flavorful Showdown

When it comes to chile peppers, few regions are as passionate as Colorado and New Mexico. Both states boast rich traditions of growing and preparing chile, each with its own unique flavors, textures, and cultural significance. But what sets Colorado chile peppers apart from their New Mexico counterparts? Let’s explore the differences between these spicy stars.

The Growing Conditions

The primary distinction lies in the geography.

• New Mexico Chile: These peppers are cultivated in the arid valleys of southern New Mexico, particularly in the Hatch Valley, which has become synonymous with premium chile. The area’s high elevation, hot days, and cool nights produce peppers with a complex, smoky-sweet flavor.

• Colorado Chile: Most of Colorado's chile peppers are grown in the Pueblo region, where the soil is richer and the climate slightly cooler compared to Hatch. These conditions result in Pueblo chiles having a more robust and earthy flavor, often accompanied by a sharper heat.

Flavor Profile

Both chile varieties bring the heat, but they cater to different taste preferences.

• Hatch Chile (New Mexico): Hatch chiles are celebrated for their versatility and balanced flavor. They range from mild to hot and carry a signature smokiness with a touch of sweetness. They are particularly popular roasted, which enhances their smoky notes.

• Pueblo Chile (Colorado): Pueblo chiles are known for their distinctively bold heat and heartier flesh. They deliver a richer, almost nutty flavor, making them ideal for stuffing or adding depth to spicy stews like green chile.

The Signature Dishes

Chile peppers define the culinary identity of both states.

• New Mexico: The state’s green and red chile sauces are legendary. The question, "Red or Green?" is a rite of passage for visitors and refers to the type of chile sauce served. Both versions are used on everything from enchiladas to burgers.

• Colorado: Pueblo chiles shine in the state’s version of green chile—a hearty, stew-like dish often made with pork and served smothered over burritos or fries. The Pueblo chile’s robust heat provides the perfect base for this comforting dish.

Cultural Significance

Chile isn’t just a crop; it’s a way of life in both states.

• New Mexico: The Hatch Chile Festival draws thousands of visitors annually to celebrate this iconic pepper. The state even designated the chile as its official vegetable and has enacted laws to protect the authenticity of "New Mexico Certified Chile."

• Colorado: Pueblo chiles have grown in cultural importance over the years, with the Pueblo Chile & Frijoles Festival drawing chile lovers to southern Colorado each fall. Locals take pride in the Pueblo chile’s reputation as a fiery rival to Hatch.

Which One Is Better?

The answer depends on your taste buds! If you prefer a balanced, smoky-sweet flavor, New Mexico’s Hatch chile is your go-to. If you love bold heat with a nuttier profile, Colorado’s Pueblo chile is calling your name.

For chile lovers, the best option is to try both. Roast them, stuff them, simmer them in stews, or use them in sauces. No matter which state you lean toward, both Colorado and New Mexico chile peppers offer a taste of regional pride and culinary tradition.

What’s your favorite chile, and how do you like to prepare it? Share your thoughts in the comments!