Reviews / Mala Idea Tepextate

Review · · by The Editors

Mala Idea Tepextate

Tepextate at 45%. The undersell zone

Score: 2.5/5 agaves

Mala Idea Tepextate bottle
  • Producer: Mala Idea Mezcal
  • Maestro: Celestino Sernas
  • Region: Santiago Matatlán, Oaxaca
  • Agave: Tepextate
  • ABV: 45%
  • Price: $70 ($$)

Verdict

Tepextate undersold is one of the most common mistakes in the category, at 45% the marmorata florals thin and the stone-fruit heart loses its drive. Celestino Sernas's bottle is a clean distillation of an agave that isn't getting enough proof to speak up. Pass and buy Hermógenes Vásquez, Reyna Sánchez, or Mal Bien's Ramos tepextate instead.

Tepextate under 48% is a proof decision we notice

Tasting notes

Nose: Faint floral with soft stone, light smoke

Palate: 45% is below the 48% tepextate floor we flag, the marmorata florals don't drive, the bottle reads pleasant but muted

Finish: Short-medium, soft

The bottom line

A pass. Tepextate needs more voltage

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