Mezcal Los Siete Misterios Mexicano (46.5%)

A twice-distilled mezcal from Sola de Vega, Oaxaca, made from Agave Rhodacantha, locally known as Mexicano Maguey. The agave resembles Espadín but is considerably rarer, and fewer than 2,500 bottles have been produced since the brand was founded. The piñas are roasted in a traditional earthen oven with wood and river stones, then distilled twice in a clay pot still. The batch MXN03/15 dates from 2015. The nose shows fresh herbs, grass and a light smoke cloud with earthy undertones. The palate brings ripe papaya, piloncillo and smoked wood, with a medium-full, soft mouthfeel and a light oily texture. The finish is long, with lingering wet earth and a spicy aftertaste.