Mezcal Vago Cuixe

This is not a refined, top-shelf mezcal like certain other brands (which I also enjoy); this is premium Oaxacan moonshine. It's potent and its development is somewhat hazy. Nevertheless, it becomes more appealing as it evolves from the yellowish-green sweet aroma (reminiscent of banana bubblegum, almost like toluene-infused fuel) to a dusty, baked earth note beneath a mild grassy finish. I always find myself wanting another taste, even after the intensity has been somewhat overwhelming. Created by a remarkable man, Aquilino García López, may his talented spirit rest. Batch A-18-C-18, produced in September 2018.

Incredible nose! Intense scents of smoked agave, vegetation, a touch of mint, mango, and vanilla. The palate echoes this with roasted agave, wintergreen mint, unripe bananas, and mango. It concludes with mint, cooked vegetation, and a powerful peppery punch. The alcohol heat is noticeable, leaving a slightly dry, bitter, and earthy finish. The texture is quite creamy. This is a bold, assertive mezcal that I thoroughly enjoy.

Aquilino García, Lot A-09-C-16, 51.7% ABV Earthy, grassy aroma with a hint of smoke. Sweet roasted agave and tropical fruit on the palate with earthy undertones. Finish has earth, pepper, rubber, and vegetality that starts out subtle and quickly almost dominates everything else. Alcohol heat throughout. Incredibly delicious but very potent and somewhat harsh. Not an easy spirit to drink, this one.

It's not smooth enough for my palate. It might be enjoyable in a mixed drink, but it's a bit too potent for me on its own.

It's quite coarse and biting. Tastes like plants, old paper, and dust. I'm not a fan.

Very grassy and smoky, an assault on the palate