This was a fantastic day. In the spirit of a pre-pandemic throwback, I opened a bottle of mezcal from a surprise trip to Mexico City just days before we heard of "social distancing." This Wahaka Mezcal Joven Madre Cuishe has a mature, smoky nose. Neat sips start sweet and warming with a slight citrus twist. The finish has a bit of pleasant heat that is perfect for a fall night. This mezcal is smooth, but evokes a nostalgic comfort like a hug from a close friend. While I typically opt for whisky, this mezcal is a welcome treat. 8.5/10
Wahaka Mezcal Joven Madre Cuishe
Mezcal Mezcal Oaxaca No age statement 42% ABV
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About this bottle
Wahaka Mezcal sources wild madre-cuishe for this bottling from the lowlands of Oaxaca’s Central Valleys. This scarce agave, typically found between 900-2,000 meters above sea level, is harvested after a minimum of 12 years of growth. The agaves are cooked for 3-5 days in an earthen pit utilizing ocote or pine wood. Following cooking, the agaves are crushed with a tahona and undergo fermentation for 10-12 days in open pine vats using wild yeast. It is then distilled in a copper pot still and bottled at 84 proof without aging.
How it tastes
Measured across 14 flavor axes. Tap a note to find other bottles that lead with it.
Reviews
Showing the most detailed of 5 parsed reviews.
The aroma is minty and smoky, yet the palate offers an unexpected sweetness. It presents minty notes alongside licorice and smoke. A gentle cinnamon spice emerges, not overwhelming. It's somewhat pleasing, though the flavors feel a bit peculiar and not perfectly harmonious. The toffee element is pleasant. It possesses a pleasing earthiness. I find myself enjoying it somewhat. The body is moderately full and rich. The complexity is good.
Smells of cayenne pepper. Tastes of papaya and lime. Smoothly drinkable.
It has a flavor reminiscent of Mezcal. This is a positive attribute.
This is the best mezcal I have tried yet.
Tastes like this
Closest flavor profiles across the whole catalog.