Los Danzantes (Los Nahuales) Reposado

Verdict

Most reposados below 45% fold under their own wood; Los Nahuales' reposado is the rare bottle that makes the case for the format at a sub-42% ABV. The oak hits as addition rather than subtraction, and the espadín's character is still clearly audible. Commit, this is the bottle we'd hand someone who thinks reposado mezcal is a mistake on principle. It isn't. It just mostly gets made badly.

Tasting notes

Nose: Soft oak, cooked agave, caramel, a warm vanilla whisper

Palate: The rest has integrated completely at 41.6% – the wood adds seam, not surface, and the espadín stays in focus. Densely composed balance for the ABV; most reposados at this proof disappear under the oak

Finish: Oak-warm, clean. Long

The bottom line

The best low-proof reposado in the category. Commit

Where to buy online

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

• K&L Wines
• Flaviar
• Mission Liquor