Reviews / Donaji Joven

Review · · by The Editors

Donaji Joven

Donaji joven at 40-46% (variable across bottlings) – the inconsistency itself is the producer signal

Score: 2.5/5 agaves

Donaji Joven bottle
  • Producer: Donaji Mezcal
  • Maestro: Petronilo Rosario Altamirano
  • Region: Las Margaritas, Oaxaca
  • Agave: Espadin
  • ABV: 40%
  • Price: $40 ($)

Verdict

That's not a curated range; it's a brand that hasn't locked down its own specification. A consumer shouldn't have to squint at the back label to figure out which version they're buying, batch variability at this scale suggests the brand's priorities don't include the drinker. Skip unless you can confirm a 46% bottle on the shelf; everything else is a gamble.

Variable proofs under one label suggest the producer isn't specifying what you're buying

Tasting notes

Nose: Cooked agave with faint smoke, a trace of green apple, soft cooked-sugar depending on batch

Palate: Variable at 40-46% – the inconsistency between bottlings is itself a producer signal. High-proof batches run markedly different from the 40% ones; same label, different experience

Finish: Variable by batch, medium

The bottom line

A skip unless you can verify a high-proof batch on the shelf

Where to buy online

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

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