Reviews / Banhez Espadin & Barril
Review ·
Banhez Espadin & Barril
The most interesting $33 bottle in mezcal
Score: 3.5/5 agaves
- Producer: Banhez Mezcal
- Region: Ejutla, Oaxaca
- Agave: Barril, Espadin
- ABV: 42%
- Price: $33 ($)
Verdict
Banhez ships a genuine ensamble for less than most producers charge for their bar-well espadín. The cooperative backstory is real, the ABV is honest, and the liquid has something to say. At this price, generosity is the honest grade.
Proof that cheap mezcal doesn't have to mean boring mezcal
Tasting notes
Nose: Green herbs with melon rind, cooked agave
Palate: Brighter and more aromatic than its price tier suggests, the barril adds a savory undertow under the espadín's sweetness
Finish: Clean, faintly bitter – medium
The bottom line
The default first bottle, with Mestiza Negra ($20 at Trader Joe's) as its rival
Where to buy online
We found this bottle at 1 US retailer. Prices and stock vary – click through to check.
Price check: $33 (2026-07-29).
Compare: vs Del Maguey VIDA Clásico · vs Montelobos Espadin · vs Ilegal Joven · vs Unión Uno · vs Bozal Ensamble · vs Sombra Joven · vs Rosaluna Joven · vs Mestiza Negra Espadin · vs El Silencio Espadin · vs Dos Hombres Espadin · vs Vago Elote - Aquilino García López