Del Maguey VIDA Puebla

My initial mezcal review was with the Clasico, which I enjoyed, so I reached for it again for my second dive into this category. Nose: Dominated by vanilla, with cucumber and agave notes. Hints of lime and grapefruit, alongside floral aspects. It carries a smoky and medicinal character, and I detect the sun-dried tomato that becomes so prominent on the palate after tasting. Palate: More of the same flavors. Vanilla, cucumber, and agave. Bold notes like grapefruit citrus. It's like taking a bite out of a sun-dried bagel. Ash and sulfur are present. Finish: Primarily grapefruit, with sun-dried tomato, rubber, and smoke. There's a cinnamon heat and agave. Abundant spice. It's of moderate to short duration. This is another successful one. It's pleasant and easy to drink, despite the smoke and spice. At 40% ABV, it remains engaging, though it makes me wonder how it would fare at a higher proof. I suspect the outcome could be quite pleasing. When compared to the Clasico, I favor the latter, as it presents a more robust and intricate profile. However, this expression has its merits. It's understated and mellow. It won't be my regular choice, but it definitely has its place. It's worth the $35 price. Rated 3.5/5.

The aroma brings to mind clay pot, smoke, sweetness, and earth. My first taste offered sweet tropical fruit initially. Subsequently, I detected some smokiness, green pepper, and earthiness. The flavor is less intense than the aroma. I'm consuming it neat, and I believe the delicate flavors would be lost in a mixed drink.

It possesses a clear, silvery appearance, with a few tiny particles floating within. The aroma carries notes of peppery agave, accented by a subtle hint of mild smoke. The flavor mirrors the aroma, with a slightly more pronounced smokiness. It has a light body and concludes with a dry finish.

New to this, but I'm giving it a shot. It has an aroma of clay, earth, and smoke. The taste is similar to the smell but is surprisingly delicate and smooth. The finish delivered a powerful wave of smoke and earth. I thoroughly enjoyed it.

The nose carries notes of smoke, char, earth, petrichor, and silicon. The palate is slightly sweet, smoky, with petrichor and charred notes. It finishes with medium agave and smoke.