Xicala Reposado Espadin Mezcal (75cl, 40%)

A reposado mezcal from Destilería Tlacolula in the Valley of Tlacolula, Oaxaca, made from 100% Espadin agave. The agave hearts are roasted in a traditional underground pit oven, then crushed with a tahona stone mill pulled by mule. After eight days of open-air fermentation in wooden vats, the spirit rests for six months in American oak barrels and French Limousin cognac casks. The nose shows mild vanilla, caramel, char-grilled pineapple, jalapeño, toasted walnut and fig. The palate has green pepper, fresh herbs, warm spice, sweet almond, raisin, chili and caramel. The finish brings smoke, vanilla, milk chocolate, toasted oak and dried fruit.