Reviews / Lopez Real Tobala
Review · · by The Editors
Lopez Real Tobala
A tobalá that could run faster at higher proof
Score: 3.5/5 agaves
- Producer: Lopez Real Mezcal
- Maestro: Antonio Hernandez Lopez
- Region: Santiago Matatlán, Oaxaca
- Agave: Tobala
- ABV: 45%
- Price: $70 ($$)
Verdict
López Real's tobalá is decently made – the potatorum is recognizable, the production is clean, but 45% is where tobalá becomes legible, not where it peaks. At the 47-48% the agave wants, the liquid would separate more clearly from the espadín sibling. Banhez's tobalá at 47% does more for the category at a similar price. A credible middle-shelf pour; not the benchmark.
Tobalá at its working minimum
Tasting notes
Nose: Honey with green apple, a light mineral note
Palate: The potatorum's bright signature is present, but 45% is the ceiling for this agave – the tobalá's aromatic altitude never fully opens. Clean, correct, slightly gentled
Finish: Dry, lightly floral. Stays medium-long
The bottom line
Fine tobalá. Banhez is doing more with the agave for the money
Where to buy online
We found this bottle at 1 US retailer. Prices and stock vary – click through to check.