Reviews / Mezcalum

Review · · by The Editors

Mezcalum

Cuishe and espadín at 44%, the ensamble with the volume down

Score: 3.0/5 agaves

Mezcalum bottle
  • Producer: Mezcalum
  • Maestro: Carlos Mendez Blas
  • Region: Santiago Matatlán, Oaxaca
  • Agave: Cuishe, Espadin
  • ABV: 44%
  • Price: $45 ($$)

Verdict

Mezcalum from Carlos Mendez Blas is serviceable espadín-cuishe work at a proof that doesn't let either agave fully speak – especially the cuishe, which needs the upper 40s to hold its dry karwinskii profile. Pour when found; climb to any Mezcalosfera or Mezcalero karwinskii ensamble for the format done right.

A karwinskii ensamble at 44% is karwinskii with the windows closed

Tasting notes

Nose: Wet grass with light cooked agave

Palate: 44% is a polite proof for a karwinskii-bearing ensamble, and the cuishe half reads softer than it should – the bottle is clean but uncommitted

Finish: Clean, mild – medium

The bottom line

Pour if on hand. Don't hunt