Banhez Mezcal Reviews

Last Updated on: 16th May 2024, 01:09 pm

J Highland

J Highland is a certified sommelier with 30 years in the liquor industry, owning a pub, a liquor store, and moonlighting as an agave spirits distiller.

Banhez has positioned itself as one of the most renowned mezcal producers in Mexico.

This post offers reviews of its releases created with the assistance of Baltazar Herrera, a renowned Mezcal expert.

Reviewed by: J Highland

Key Takeaways

Range of Offerings: Banhez features a diverse lineup of mezcals, each maintaining a consistent quality level. The lineup includes Joven, Pechuga, Espadin & Barril, Tepeztate, and Tobala.
Flavor Profiles:
- Joven: Offers a versatile, fruity profile suitable for both sipping and mixing.
- Pechuga: Known for its rich, unique flavor with additions of apples and seasonal fruits.
- Espadin & Barril: A smooth blend with floral and tropical notes.
- Tepeztate: Robust with earthy, smoky notes, ideal for experienced mezcal enthusiasts.
- Tobala: Presents smooth, refined flavors including green mango and hints of leather and herbs.
Suitability for Consumers: The best Banhez mezcal varies based on individual taste and experience. Newcomers may prefer Joven or Espadin & Barril, while seasoned drinkers might enjoy the complexity of Tepeztate and Tobala.
Unique Cooperative Model: Banhez is a cooperative of 36 families of farmers and distillers, blending mezcals for a consistent flavor profile. The brand was recognized with two gold medals at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition in 2017.
Price Points: Prices range from $33 for Joven to $120 for Tobala, offering options for different budgets.
Consumption Recommendations: Best enjoyed neat or on the rocks, with some variants like Joven and Espadin & Barril also suitable for mezcal-based cocktails
Quick Note: Running a pub and liquor store provides me ample access to various spirits, in addition, I moonlight as an agave spirits distiller. I assess them using customer feedback, expert opinions from Neil Coleman, and online research, focusing on aroma, taste, finish, and value.

1. Banhez Joven

Banhez Joven, a "Young" mezcal bottled immediately post-distillation, offers versatility for sipping and mixing at an affordable price.

It features a fruity profile with lime rind, banana, star fruit, and papaya notes, balanced by a pleasant smokiness.

Approachable and inviting, it's an excellent starting point for those new to mezcal, easing them into exploring its flavors and characteristics.

2. Banhez Pechuga

"Pechuga" in Spanish means "breast."

During the production of Pechuga mezcal, a turkey breast hangs above the boiling still, and the hot steam cooks it, letting flavorful juices drip into the still.

This method gives Pechuga mezcal a unique and rich flavor. Banhez Pechuga goes further by adding apples and seasonal fruits during distillation, resulting in a delicious and fruity turkey broth-like taste.

For newcomers to this spirit, Banhez Pechuga offers an affordable way to experience the distinct flavors of Pechuga mezcal.

3. Banhez Espadin & Barril

Banhez Espadin & Barril is an ensamble mezcal, which means it is crafted by distilling two or more types of agaves together in the same batch.

In this case, it combines 90% Espadín agave and 10% Barril agave.

The result is a smooth spirit with a nice combination of flavors.

It features rich floral notes alongside the tropical flavors of banana and pineapple.

This is a nice and easy drinker that additionally works wonderfully as a mixer, lending its unique character to be used in Tequila-based cocktails.

4. Banhez Tepeztate

Tepeztate, derived from agave marmorata, is a wild agave mezcal that matures over 20-25 years.

Among Banhez releases, Tepeztate is a personal favorite, offering robust earthy and smoky notes.

Its scent evokes green peppers with hints of green apple and citrus zest, making it best for experienced mezcal enthusiasts who savor complex flavors.

5. Banhez Tobala

Tobala is a small agave variety that grows in the wild and requires approximately 15 years to reach full maturity.

It is highly regarded among mezcal aficionados for its exceptional qualities.

Banhez Tobala mezcal presents a smooth and refined flavor profile.

Tasting notes include the distinct flavors of green mango, along with hints of leather and fresh green herbs.

These elements combine to create a harmonious and enjoyable drinking experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Banhez Mezcal stand out?

Banhez is unique for being a cooperative of 36 families in Oaxaca, blending traditional mezcal making passed down through generations. This collaborative approach ensures consistency and high quality across their range. The brand has been recognized with gold medals at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition in 2017 for its excellence.

Which Banhez Mezcal is best for me?

For Beginners: Joven Mezcal and Espadin + Barril Ensamble are smooth and versatile, ideal for both sipping and mixing.
For Enthusiasts: Tepeztate and Tobala offer more complexity and depth for those with a palate for nuanced flavors.
For Explorers: Pechuga provides an affordable introduction to a unique style of mezcal.

How to Drink

Mezcal is traditionally enjoyed neat or on the rocks to fully appreciate its distinct flavors. Joven and Ensamble are also great for mezcal-based cocktails, offering a deeper, smokier alternative to classic Tequila drinks.

Can Banhez Mezcal be used in cocktails?

Yes, particularly the Joven and Ensamble variants. Mezcal can replace Tequila in cocktails for a smokier, more complex flavor profile. It's a versatile spirit that adds an intriguing twist to familiar recipes.