Matra Tobala / Espadin

Item: Matra Tobala / Espadin
Rating: 3.0
Author: The Editors

Tobalá diluted into an ensamble shape

Score: 3.0/5 agaves

Producer: Matra Mezcal
Region: Santiago Matatlán, Oaxaca
Agave: Espadin, Tobala
ABV: 40%
Price: $55 ($$)

Verdict

Wild-agave ensambles deserve proof that lets the wild half speak, this one doesn't get it. Matra's tobalá-espadín blend is fine-drinking and anonymous; Banhez's own tobalá delivers the category at a closer price and a more generous ABV. Don't hunt.

Tobalá at 40% is tobalá under a blanket

Tasting notes

Nose: Green melon with a faint waxy floral note

Palate: The tobalá wants to sing but 40% ABV keeps the volume low, the espadín's sweetness pads what ought to be a more mineral, wilder profile

Finish: Short-medium, softly floral

The bottom line

Skip for Banhez Tobalá or any wild-ensamble at 45%+