Reviews / Cruz de Fuego Ensamble

Review · · by The Editors

Cruz de Fuego Ensamble

Espadín-tobalá ensamble at 45% – a commercial ensamble with tobalá lift undersold by proof

Score: 3.0/5 agaves

Cruz de Fuego Ensamble bottle
  • Producer: Cruz de Fuego Mezcal
  • Maestro: Carlos Mendez Blas
  • Region: Santiago Matatlán, Oaxaca
  • Agave: Espadin, Tobala
  • ABV: 45%
  • Price: $55 ($$)

Verdict

Espadín-tobalá is the natural beginner ensamble – and the proof cap makes the tobalá read as accent instead of structural partner. Every commercial producer attempts this pairing at some tier; Cruz de Fuego's version is competent but not distinctive. Banhez Ensamble delivers more ensamble per dollar; buy that instead.

A commercial ensamble of the natural beginner pairing

Tasting notes

Nose: Wildflower, cooked agave and a faint smoke high note

Palate: The tobalá lift is present but undersold by the proof choice; medium-bodied at 45%

Finish: Dry, with a slow floral fade

The bottom line

Fine

Where to buy online

We found this bottle at 2 US retailers. Prices and stock vary – click through to check.

More from Cruz de Fuego Mezcal