Reviews / Koch Tobala

Review · · by The Editors

Koch Tobala

A correctly-made tobalá at a price that doesn't make you flinch

Score: 3.5/5 agaves

Koch Tobala bottle
  • Producer: Koch Mezcal
  • Maestro: Pedro Hernandez
  • Region: San Baltazar Guélavila, Oaxaca
  • Agave: Tobala
  • ABV: 47%
  • Price: $55 ($$)

Verdict

Koch's tobalá is a clean, honest interpretation, not the most distinctive bottle in the category, but also not selling the agave short the way many mid-tier tobalás at lower proofs do. San Baltazar Guelavila production stays disciplined, and 47% gives the agave real structural room. Consensus 3.8 is close to right. A reliable mid-tier tobalá for drinkers getting oriented on the category.

A tobalá you can buy without overthinking it

Tasting notes

Nose: Wildflower with ripe citrus

Palate: Aromatic and bright at 47%, with a touch less weight than the reference tobalás, the agave signature holds cleanly and the producer's hand stays controlled throughout

Finish: Floral, drying, with a slow mineral fade, long

The bottom line

A legitimate tobalá in the affordable tier. Banhez Tobalá is cheaper; this one has more to say

Where to buy online

We found this bottle at 5 US retailers. Prices and stock vary – click through to check.

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