Puntagave Rustico Mezcal (75cl, 42%)

Puntagave Rustico Mezcal is a 100% Espadín joven mezcal from Santiago de Matatlán, Oaxaca, bottled unaged at 42% ABV in a 750ml bottle. It is cooked in underground pits, with a 24-hour fire heating volcanic stones followed by two to three days of slow roasting under fibre and agave leaves, and finished in small, hand-corked sets. The brand describes moderate oak-like depth with sweet agave, fresh green vegetables and touches of pepper, finishing long and viscous with cedar. Independent reviews find light, crisp green and white pepper on the nose, rich roasted agave with creaminess, black pepper and ripe tropical fruit on the palate, and a long, gently numbing finish.