Mal Bien Papalote Joven Gutiérrez (75cl)

This is an artisanal joven mezcal made from Papalote agave, bottled under the Mal Bien label in a 75cl bottle. It comes from Guerrero, Mexico, and carries the names of Tomás and Emiliano Gutiérrez as producers, with the village of Xalpatlahuac de Alvarez on the label. Papalote is a less common agave than Espadín, and it gives a savoury, earthy and herbal character with a touch of smoke. On the nose there is roasted agave, green herbs, mineral earthiness, pepper and a gentle thread of smoke. The palate is crisp and layered, with savoury agave, mineral salinity, black pepper and soft smoke, leading to a clean, dry and lingering finish.