Sombra Mezcal

Stands out but maybe a little too smoky for my tastes

I consider Sombra one of the better mixing mezcals out there and even neat it's not that bad. I think it's considerably better than Ilegal joven and in line with El Buho and Del Maguey Vida (but probably slightly better than Vida too). The nose is fruity, with pineapple leading the way. The palate has some heat, along with pepper, apples, smoke and a touch of sweetness. The finish is relatively long, especially in comparison to Ilegal joven, with a touch of burn. I tried this in a clay copita and glass and neither really differentiated itself. Considering the cost, which is the same as the Ilegal joven, I would buy this every time. It doesn't have the complexity or uniqueness of many of the more expensive artisanal mezcals out there, but it gets the job done and works great in cocktails.

Smoky, rich, some grass, surprisingly nice

Sombra Mezcal Jovan Artisanal has a clear, silver appearance, with uniform and spaced alcohol legs. The aroma is of smoky bell pepper and charcoal ashes. The flavor is of smoked peppers and wood ash. The body is medium, and Sombra Mezcal Jovan Artisanal has a moderate finish. RJT