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Wahaka Mezcal Joven Madre Cuishe
Distiller Score 95
Fruity and herbaceous on the nose, with lime and agave notes standing out. There is a noticeable minerality, umami and earthiness as well as notes of white pepper and grilled pineapple which the warmer temperatures and drier conditions of the volcanic terrain seem to have brought out in the mezcal. The dry, medium finish shows hints of grass and citrus.
Reviewed by Daniel Djang
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Wahaka Mezcal Joven Ensamble
Distiller Score 94
The nose is unmistakably Tobalá - distinctively herbaceous and floral. The volcanic terrain of the Madre Cuishe offers earthiness and minerality on the full-bodied palate, along with citrus and pepper notes. The Espadín ties it all together with an underpinning of agave and light smoke that carries through on the long finish.
Reviewed by Daniel Djang
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Gracias a Dios Mezcal Tobalá
Distiller Score 94
Though this mezcal certainly contains all the things tobalá aficionados crave, it does so with some restraint. Bandaid-like rubberiness, strong smoke and stewed peppers are the dominant flavors, but with some sweet tropical notes and even some fresh mint. Accents of black pepper, portobello mushroom and dark chocolate add more intrigue to this viscous and nuanced spirit.
Reviewed by Amanda Schuster
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Los Vecinos del Campo Ensamble No. 1 Mezcal
Distiller Score 90
Despite its slightly higher proof, look for a mild aroma on this mezcal, with hints of earthy roasted agave, lemon rind and fresh herbs. Its flavor also starts out mild but then notes of zesty spice, green tea and salinity appear. Quite enjoyable.
Reviewed by Anna Archibald
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Gracias a Dios Mezcal Tepextate
Distiller Score 92
For those seeking a lighter take on mezcal, this is a good one to reach for. Lightweight and refreshing, the herbal notes cleanse and awaken the palate with peppery spice, spearmint, wheatgrass and mace with a waft of sweet smoke. Grapefruit, tangerine, lime and lemon provide the fruit backdrop, while a zing of chili pepper gives it some heat in the finish.
Reviewed by Amanda Schuster
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Del Maguey San Luis del Rio Mezcal
Distiller Score 90
The aroma is full of citrus fruits, sweet agave, and an earthy smoke. A touch of clay comes on the palate and this 100% espadín agave mezcal is soft and creamy with much of the same aromas found on the aroma.
Reviewed by Stephanie Moreno
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Del Maguey Santo Domingo Albarradas Mezcal
Distiller Score 88
This is one assertive mezcal! On the nose it offers bold notes of strawberry and fermented fruit alongside rustic agave distillate. These rich flavors carry through to the palate, with lots of tropical fruit, salinity, and a hint of smoky barbecue sauce. Despite its vigorous character and high proof, this is an eminently sippable spirit for those who enjoy the wild and unusual flavors mezcal has to offer. Unique and highly recommended.
Reviewed by Jacob Grier
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Mezcal El Silencio Joven
Distiller Score 89
This has a cleaner and less complex aroma compared to its black-bottled brother, the El Silencio Espadín. There are some pottery notes and a very faint smoke. Lots of fruit appears along with some banana leaf. A nice minty profile shows up on the palate and the mezcal is round and soft. All in all, a clean and uncomplicated expression.
Reviewed by Stephanie Moreno
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Espíritu Lauro Joven Mezcal
Distiller Score 87
This mezcal is so funky it almost has its own bassline! This is a super earthy style with flavors of mushrooms and roasted green peppers. It has a minerally finish with a full, weighty texture and light smoke. Definitely one mezcal aficionados should try for sheer uniqueness and complexity.
Reviewed by Amanda Schuster
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Bruxo No. 3 Barril Mezcal
Distiller Score 87
This is probably the boldest and funkiest of all the Bruxo releases. It's also the smokiest of the bunch, with a rich blast of cooked agave fruit, citrus, mushrooms and notes of buttery, burnt movie-popcorn (in the nicest possible way) and warm spices. There's even a slight yeastiness as it glides into a caramel syrupy finish.
Reviewed by Amanda Schuster
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Wahaka Mezcal Reposado con Gusano
Distiller Score 92
The nose is floral and smoky, offering notes of agave and tobacco. On the smooth and balanced palate, there are notes of roasted agave, vanilla, butterscotch, oak and a light smoke. The dry, medium finish offers grassy and subtle vegetal notes, citrus peel, a hint of almond, and a wisp of smoke at the end.
Reviewed by Daniel Djang
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Mayalen Agua de Juventud Guerrero Mezcal
Distiller Score 89
A warrior mezcal that comes out to play! Base notes of citrus, bittersweet chocolate, green and sweet bell peppers and black pepper settle in before a roundhouse kick of grassy herbs hits the palate. Then there's a jab of hot peppers as this mezcal coats the throat in a smoky, fiery trail. Seeking something funky and different? Add this bold mezcal to your arsenal.
Reviewed by Amanda Schuster