Reviews / NETA Espadín + Bicuixe Ensamble

Review · · by The Editors

NETA Espadín + Bicuixe Ensamble

Espadín and bicuishe in an ensamble that splits the difference between cultivated and wild

Score: 4.0/5 agaves

NETA Espadín + Bicuixe Ensamble bottle
  • Producer: NETA
  • Maestro: Candido García Cruz
  • Region: San Luis Amatlan, Oaxaca
  • Agave: Bicuishe, Espadin
  • ABV: 46.1%
  • Price: $70 ($$)

Verdict

Candido García Cruz's ensamble for NETA is a thoughtful bridge bottle, cheaper than pure wild-agave bottlings, more interesting than pure espadín. At 46.1% the espadín provides structural spine and the bicuishe adds complexity without muddying the base; this is how ensambles are supposed to work when the producer's blending judgment is sound. NETA's price tier tends to push drinkers toward single-maestro bottles, but the range's ensambles reward attention. Consensus 4.3 is fair.

Espadín-plus-wild ensambles are a useful price-point category

Tasting notes

Nose: Green note over cooked agave, pepper, mineral damp

Palate: The espadín gives the structure; the bicuishe adds complexity. 46.1% is appropriate

Finish: Clean, slate-tinged. Long

The bottom line

A well-constructed ensamble at a reasonable price

Where to buy online

We found this bottle at 3 US retailers. Prices and stock vary – click through to check.

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