Mezcal Alipús Santa Ana del Rio

The aroma is subtle and somewhat sweet, offering a notable amount of exotic fruit, particularly banana. This spirit goes down easily and has sweetness, though less than the smell suggests. Mezcal smoke and iodine are present with earthy notes alongside the fruit. As I drink more, the complexity emerges, with spices and botanicals in harmony. The smokiness is a bit intense, but acceptable for a mezcal. The finish becomes somewhat rough and buttery on the palate, causing a slight numbing sensation. The fruit notes persist somewhat, but the spices and herbal character ultimately dominate. While complex, some elements don't fully integrate. It's quite drying and has significant minerality, which isn't preferred. In the end, I appreciate the cinnamon and fruit, despite other aspects being less impressive. I could drink this, but it wouldn't be my top selection. It becomes less appealing and more dull the longer I drink it. Opting for such a high proof was likely an error.

This Mezcal is highly distinctive, presenting notes of cheesecake, ripe melon, and sweet cream on the nose, followed by roasted pineapple, creamed corn, brioche, and eucalyptus on the palate.

Standard fare. Smells of smoke, orange, and mineral stone. The palate is sweet, light, and smoky, with notes of citrus, smoke, earth, and stone.

Complex, smooth, citrus fruits. 6/22/18

Harsh and difficult to enjoy straight.

Earthy and mineral-like.