Bozal Cuixe

Another clear joven mezcal. The aroma is subtler than I'm accustomed to but still registers as salty. Interestingly, the smoke requires a bit of searching. A distinct sweetness is present with notes of papaya, lime zest, and spearmint. There's also a dusty, mineral quality akin to a chalkboard. The smoke on the finish is somewhat green, as if from burning young, fresh wood rather than long-smoldering embers. The palate mirrors this, presenting a different profile than expected. The texture is simultaneously light and chalky, almost crunchy, with a vitamin-like or mineral character. Bright, acidic flavors emerge first, including papaya, lightly grilled pineapple, coconut water, and that mint note again. Only after these have settled does the smoke appear, lingering into a light finish. I'm undecided. While I don't think I prefer it over Rey Campero, it's certainly a departure from what I perceive as a typical tar-heavy mezcal. If Del Maguey Chichicapa is a Laphroaig and Rey Campero Espadin is a Talisker, this might be akin to a strange Oban, or something similar. Significantly less smoke, with more citrus and salt. Regarding batch variation... tasting notes seem to vary widely for this one, apart from the salty and mineral aspects. I'm unsure how much batches differ with mezcal, but consistency doesn't appear to be a strong suit for most mezcals based on my reading. For me, this ties for first among the four I've sampled. Those who enjoy the taste of burnt vegetables should be aware this likely won't appeal to them.

It resembles Arta Anejo. The nose is heavily minty, supported by earthy, vegetal notes and a hint of fruit. The palate is spicy and intensely menthol-like – a combination of peppermint, spearmint, and ginger, with caramel undertones. It's not a great initial impression. The spiciness is excessive, causing a sharp burn and slight numbness. Surprisingly sweet, which significantly balances the spice and spearmint. It truly evokes Atomic Fireballs. Interesting and amusing for younger palates, perhaps, but not a fine sipping experience. The underlying blandness and bitter vegetal notes persist. Ultimately, the flavors lack harmony, though the alcohol isn't overpowering. The proof doesn't seem as high as it is, despite the spicy heat. Some smoke and balance eventually emerge, but it's not particularly distinctive. This is an acceptable mezcal that I could drink in moderation, but I wouldn't crave it.

Aroma: incredibly invigorating, with menthol, pine, and even a hint of eucalyptus, followed by subtle tropical fruit. Palate: The higher alcohol content provides an initial kick. Herbaceous, vegetal notes lead, followed by dry, smoky wood (though the smokiness is not dominant and harmonizes well with other flavors), and a lingering, gentle sweetness like papaya.

Initial tasting, remarkable. It possesses a complex and pleasing minerality, highlighted by a prominent metallic note, with a sugary sweetness emerging in the finish as the mineral/metallic aspects recede. The viscosity is also decent. Does this mineral/metallic note stem from the agave variety or the distillery's character?

Pleasant pine and fruit aromas, with a surprisingly sweet fruity taste. Reminiscent of apricot and guava, definitely a welcome surprise. Traditional mezcal wood smoke emerges, concluding with a spicy habañero heat. A delightful drink.

Tastes of floral grass and pine, with no brine or smoke. It's quite light, with thin legs and a swift finish. Not the choice for you if you require a smoky flavor for a cocktail.