Picked this up at Moreno’s while visiting Chicago recently. It’s, um, really special. Tons of herbal/spice notes up front, including some unfamiliar ones (which I presume come from things I’m not super familiar with, like avocado seeds and leaves); some sweet, some savory, all delicious. Can you perceive the boar? It certainly has a viscous mouthfeel and some ‘gamey’ flavors, so, maybe? In any event, it’s a super fun, unique, delicious mezcal. Don’t hesitate if you get the chance to try it.

Lot A-06-M-19, May 2019. Glorious stuff from a master of masters (RIP). Roasted agave and earth on the nose; flavor is clean and direct, plenty sweet, some heat (51.4%); my wife gets nuts– caramelized walnuts. There’s a lot going on here, but as often is the case for me w/ Don Aquilino’s stuff, it’s hard to pick out elements. It just tastes like (really really good) mezcal. Long finish and a lasting feeling of happiness. It’s deeper and darker than a lot of copper distilled stuff…

RML-11 2019, Edgar Angeles Carreño, 54.1%. Just gorgeous. I often tear up a bit when drinking this mezcal because it’s just.so.damn.beautiful. There are high notes of sticky fruit on the nose as well as funky notes of leather and musk. Also meaty/smoky notes. The flavor is all of that and then some. It goes down dangerously easily at 54%, rounded, muscular but supple, it’s just a perfect example of what Minas mezcal can be. Can’t wait to try other batches….