Reviews / Desolas Salmiana

Review · · by The Editors

Desolas Salmiana

Ahualulco salmiana at 40%. A rare proof-low bottle that still works

Score: 4.0/5 agaves

Desolas Salmiana bottle
  • Producer: Desolas Mezcal
  • Maestro: Manuel Olivera
  • Region: Ahualulco, San Luis Potosí
  • Agave: Salmiana
  • ABV: 40%
  • Price: $60 ($)

Verdict

Normally we'd skip anything at 40% – but salmiana is the exception that explains the rule. Manuel Olivera's Ahualulco work is so mineral and bitter-intense that the low proof reads as restraint rather than compromise. Buy this when you want salmiana as a gentle introduction, then climb to De Matachines Peñasco when you want it at full throttle.

The rare 40% bottle that isn't embarrassed by its proof

Tasting notes

Nose: Dry hay, roasted corn, black pepper, a mineral lift

Palate: Salmiana has a bitter-chalky spine strong enough to carry itself – Manuel Olivera's Ahualulco work at 40% is an exception to the proof-rule because the agave is that assertive

Finish: Bitter, dry. Long

The bottom line

A buy as a salmiana starter. One of the few 40% bottles to earn a pass

Where to buy online

We found this bottle at 3 US retailers. Prices and stock vary – click through to check.