Real Minero Astor Select Barril/Tequilana/Cuishe/Tripón Mezcal - 2023

There is simply no one that does ensembles of artisanal mezcal the way that the family at Real Minero does. It is no surprise when we were there on an annuall visit this year selecting batches that every single one for this round ended up being one. It is hard to convey the alchemy that Maestro Mezcalero Edgar Angeles Carreño employs to coax these the flavors out of each agave, while maintaining the integrity of each in a harmonious whole - but the mezcals truly are gold. Part of the reason we were drawn to this batch is that quite simply we had never seen an ensemble like this - 36% Barril (15yrs old), 34% Tequilana (8yrs old), 18% Cuishe (12yrs old), 12% Tripon (15yrs old). Notes flutter on the nose and palate with a savoury edge highlighted but flavors of hazelnut infused chocolate, grilled banana, guava fruit, avocado leaf and simmering sweet chile notes on the finish. Bottled at natural Still Strength - nothing added, nothing removed.