Essential Mezcal reviews

Thanks to Tess Rose Lampert for including a few of our favorite expressions in her new book “The Essential Tequila & Mezcal Companion” including:

MAL BIEN MEZCAL ARTESANAL

Receta Original de Lucio Morales Lopez, San Dionisio Ocotepec, Oax.

Espadín (A. angustifolia)

An easy-drinking, great value mezcal. Smoked cherries and leather are crisp, autumnal aromas. The flavors start out with a hit of salt and tangy brine before developing into sweet earthy asparagus with a touch of piloncillo. Dried citrus and herbs linger on the finish.

MAL BIEN PAPALOTE

Ciro and Javier Barranca, Chilapa de Alvarez, Guerrero

Papalote (A. cupreata)

A unique and dynamic sipping mezcal that is a treat to have in the glass. Honeyed aromas have an earthy backbone with dried firewood and carrot tops. The flavors burst onto the palate with tangy citrus and fresh acidity. The mid palate is ripe with jicama and sweet bell peppers, leading into a creamy vanilla and spice-kissed finish.

MAL BIEN QUIOTE DE ALTO

Isidro Rodriguez Montoya, Río de Parras, Michoacán

Alto (A. inaequidens)

Made exclusively from the quiote of the agave. A unique treat. Fruity aromas are reminiscent of bubblegum, watermelon, and strawberry-flavored candy. The fruitiness is long lasting, accentuated with notes of berry rock candy and generous citrus-flecked spice that build on the palate after each sip.