Alacrán Joven Mezcal

I am new to mezcal and do not have much to compare it to (only two, both shared by a buddy). We had dinner recently at Tico's restaurant in downtown Boston with my daughter, her husband, and her in-laws, and I was surprised to see they offered a selection of mezcals. So while everyone else was having their margaritas, I drank this mezcal neat. Smoky, earthy, vegetal, and a bit salty are apparently common traits for mezcals, at least for the three I've now tried. I find the smokiness and earthiness the most enjoyable aspects. None of my companions wanted to try it, which suited me fine because I wasn't sure I really wanted to share. This spirit confirms my desire to explore the range of mezcals, though strangely, I currently have no interest in trying tequilas. Dry glass - earth. Music - Wicked Rain/Across 110th Street by Los Lobos and Bobby Womack.

On the nose, I detect sweet mesquite wood smoke and spicy barbecue sauce. The scents intensify over time in the glass with traces of citrus and agave. - On the palate, there's black pepper, herbal spices, mesquite woodsmoke, orange peel, and a mild sweetness that is rapidly overwhelmed by the smoky dryness. - The finish is herbal with peppery spices and persistent smoke that eventually resolves into a traditional agave spirit conclusion of subtly sweet-sour fruit.

This is likely the finest mezcal I've ever had; crafted using the traditional Oaxacan method, it imparts a distinctively woody aroma and a recognizable Mezcal taste. I combine it with ginger ale and a basil leaf. Amazing. Worth every penny.

Smell of smoke, citrus peel, cured ham, and barbecue sauce. Hot and sweet on the palate, with notes of smoke, citrus, earth, and a little pepper.

This mezcal is fantastic. It plays on your tongue, offering smoky delights and a sweet conclusion. It's nicely balanced.

Among my favorite espadin varieties. Well-balanced.