Reviews / Vaca Loca Joven

Review · · by The Editors

Vaca Loca Joven

Miahuatlán espadín doing the minimum at the proof floor

Score: 3.0/5 agaves

Vaca Loca Joven bottle
  • Producer: Vaca Loca Mezcal
  • Maestro: Refugia "Cuca" Cortez Ramos
  • Region: Miahuatlán, Oaxaca
  • Agave: Espadin
  • ABV: 42%
  • Price: $55 ($)

Verdict

Refugia Cortez Ramos has the credentials to make a more interesting bottle than this, and the regional terroir – Miahuatlán mezcal at its best is mineral, complex, structured – is visible in outline. But 42% is the proof at which the interesting parts start getting audible, and Vaca Loca doesn't quite cross the threshold. For Miahuatlán espadín with voice, step up to Vago's Joel Barriga work.

Miahuatlán at 42% is the region on a leash

Tasting notes

Nose: Cooked agave with a light smoke

Palate: With Miahuatlán terroir legible but the back palate thinning out before it develops; clean at 42%

Finish: Sweet, clean – short

The bottom line

A fine entry pour. The region deserves more