Reviews / Xicala Mezcal Joven

Review · · by The Editors

Xicala Mezcal Joven

A joven espadín that punches up at a casual price

Score: 3.5/5 agaves

Xicala Mezcal Joven bottle
  • Producer: Xicala Mezcal
  • Region: Tlacolula, Oaxaca
  • Agave: Espadin
  • ABV: 43%
  • Price: $41 ($)

Verdict

Xicala Joven is the kind of quiet-strong bottle that gets overlooked because the label is understated. At 43% the aromatics hold together, the agave's sweetness has structure, and the price keeps it honest. Consensus 3.9 tracks closer to ours. Reach for it alongside Banhez when building a starter mezcal shelf.

The tier where Banhez lives, and Xicala earns its shelf

Tasting notes

Nose: Cooked agave with a green apple, campfire, a bright citrus lift

Palate: Clean and bright at 43%, with enough weight to feel serious and enough clarity to feel fresh. Honest work for the tier

Finish: Dry, a faint mineral tail

The bottom line

A sleeper budget espadín. Buy before the brand gets discovered

Where to buy online

We found this bottle at 2 US retailers. Prices and stock vary – click through to check.