Banhez Joven Mexicano Mezcal 750ml

Banhez Mezcal is produced by a cooperative of more than thirty-five families in the small village of San Miguel Ejutla, in the central valley of Oaxaca. The co-op, formally known as Integradora Comercial de Ejutla, has committed to sustainable, fair trade production methods that echo the way mezcal has been made in the region for nearly two centuries, with this particular expression crafted by mezcalero Luis Pacheco, whose family carries a long-standing reputation in local production.

This joven mezcal is made from 100% semi-wild Mexicano agave, a slow-growing variety that takes between ten and fifteen years to reach maturity in the Ejutla Valley. The agave is roasted in underground, wood-fired earthen pits, then crushed using donkey-pulled stone tahonas in keeping with traditional methods. Fermentation takes place in wooden tanks before the spirit is distilled in small batches using copper alembic stills, a slower process that preserves the delicate character of this rarer agave species.

Soft and approachable, this mezcal opens with bright lemon zest and a mineral, iron-like edge, rounding out with ripe honeydew melon sweetness. Underlying vegetal notes and a whisper of campfire smoke add subtle complexity without overwhelming the fruit. This mezcal makes a smooth introduction to single-varietal expressions, and works well sipped neat or as the base for a citrus-driven cocktail.