Sandia Mountain Sauce Company: Bringing New Mexico's Bold Flavors to the World

A Culinary Journey Rooted in Tradition and Innovation

For Jon Young, founder of Sandia Mountain Sauce Company, food has never just been about taste — it's about culture, community, and connection. With over four decades in the culinary industry, from fine dining to food trucks, Jon's roots in New Mexico run deep. After serving as the Chef Ambassador for the New Mexico Department of Agriculture for nearly four years, he decided it was time to channel his passion into a new venture. The result? A line of barbecue sauces infused with the vibrant red and green chiles that define the Land of Enchantment.

The inspiration came naturally. Jon noticed there were few chili-inspired barbecue sauces available, despite New Mexico’s rich chile heritage. His mission was clear: create high-quality sauces that celebrate local flavors while appealing to a national — even international — audience.

The Flavors That Tell a Story

Sandia Mountain Sauce Company currently offers three standout sauces: Red Chile Barbecue, Green Chile Barbecue, and the fan-favorite "Christmas," which artfully blends both. Jon approaches each recipe like a chef crafting a fine sauce in a French kitchen, balancing sweetness, heat, and savory depth.

The red chile version is rich, thick, and layered with smoky, savory notes. The green chile brings a brighter profile, perfect for chicken, seafood, or even potato salad. The "Christmas" blend, however, has captured the most attention, outselling the others by a margin of 1.5 to 1. Customers rave about its complexity — a dance of sweet, savory, herbal notes followed by a perfectly timed kick of heat.

Beyond taste, Jon insists on quality. His sauces are free from high fructose corn syrup and unnecessary additives, staying true to the flavors you’d expect from a homemade batch.

Community at the Heart

Community is not just a buzzword for Jon; it’s a way of life. Raised in a small town and steeped in agricultural traditions, he understands the value of local farming and mentorship. At the Corrales Grower’s Market, where the company first tested its products, Jon built lasting relationships with customers and fellow vendors. He’s passionate about helping other food entrepreneurs navigate production, packaging, and marketing.

Jon also advocates for better food education and healthier school meals, recalling the scratch-cooked dishes of his youth and pushing for a return to those standards. His belief in supporting local agriculture extends to encouraging value-added products that help farmers diversify and thrive.

Rapid Growth and Big Dreams

Since launching in June 2025, Sandia Mountain Sauce Company has sold thousands of bottles and secured shelf space in six stores, including notable local retailers like Keller's and Chili Traditions. Expansion into Santa Fe and beyond is already underway, with eyes on larger natural food chains like Whole Foods, Sprouts, and Natural Grocers.

Jon’s one-year goal of offering both mild and hot versions of each sauce may come sooner than expected. He’s also looking ahead to major trade shows, including the Healthy Foods Expo in Anaheim, CA where he plans to introduce Sandia Mountain Sauce to national and international buyers.

Why You Should Try It

Sandia Mountain Sauce Company isn’t just making sauces — it’s bottling the spirit of New Mexico. Each flavor is a tribute to the state’s unique culinary history, blending tradition with creative innovation. Whether you’re a lifelong New Mexican or a curious foodie from afar, these sauces will bring the taste of the Southwest to your table.

As Jon says, "This is New Mexico mild, but Midwest hot." So be prepared for a flavorful kick — and to come back for more.