Mezcal Local

Verdict

Mezcal Local is the kind of small-label Oaxaca espadín that fills the gap between the Vida tier and the single-lot tier – Leonel Hernández's work is honest, the proof is set to serve the agave rather than the price point, and the bottle doesn't overclaim. Pour it when you want a credible everyday espadín without paying Mezcalosfera prices.

Tasting notes

Nose: Green herb, wet stone, ripe pear, a clean smoke

Palate: 42% holds the espadín with a little more texture than commercial-spec bottles manage, not a dense mid-palate, but a present one

Finish: Medium-long, peppery, mineral

The bottom line

Pour it. A reliable weekday espadín