Matra Joven

Verdict

Matra is well-made mezcal trimmed to hit a commercial price – Celso Martínez López has better work on other labels, and you can feel the compromise here. It's a pleasant pour that doesn't misbehave. Reach for Banhez or Nuestra Soledad first; come to Matra when you're curating a shelf that needs an easygoing middle.

Tasting notes

Nose: Cooked agave up front. A touch of citrus peel, soft smoke underneath

Palate: Competent but under-muscled at 40% – the producer's signals are there if you lean in, but the liquid never leans toward you

Finish: Short-medium, clean, mild

The bottom line

Fine. Not worth hunting when Banhez is cheaper and more interesting