Last Updated on: 17th May 2024, 01:54 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.
With the assistance of agave spirits expert Neil Coleman and valuable customer insights, I have assembled a list of the top cheap Mezcals to buy.
Written by: J Highland
Choosing the Best Cheap Mezcal
Easygoing & Smoky: Animas Espadin (Espadin agave, light smoke, pineapple finish, around $50)
Daily Sipper: Mal Bien Espadin (Espadin agave, 90-proof, cooked agave, leather, banana, around $40)
Earthy & Fruity: La Luna (Cupreata agave, earthy minerals, cantaloupe, white pepper, ash, around $45)
Unique & Sweet: Vago Elote (Espadin agave, toasted corn, wood, honey, tropical fruits, mint, papaya, around $50)
Sustainable & Balanced: Montelobos Espadin (Espadin agave, organic, earthy, honey, citrus, asparagus, smoke, around $50)
Budget-Friendly & Smoky: Mezcal Madre (Oaxacan, smooth, sweet, smoky, around $40)
Intro to Bozal Quality: Bozal Ensamble (blend of agaves, traditional, smoky, herbal, under $50)
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 and online research.
Quick Look at the Best Cheap Mezcals
| Mezcal | Price | |
| Animas Mezcal | $50 | |
| Mal Bien Espadin Mezcal | $40 | |
| La Luna Cupreata Mezcal | $45 | |
| Vago Elote Mezcal | $55 | |
| Montelobos Mezcal | $45 | |
| Madre Mezcal | $40 | |
| Bozal Ensamble Mezcal | $50 |
Easygoing Mezcal for Every Budget: Animas Espadin
Looking for a smooth and approachable mezcal? Look no further than Animas Espadin. Made entirely from Espadin agave, this mezcal is known for its lighter smoke character, letting other flavors take center stage, states mezcal expert Neil Coleman.
Agave Aficionado or Newcomer?
Animas Espadin is a great choice for both mezcal veterans and those just starting their exploration. Its subtle smokiness lets other interesting notes emerge, including a touch of pineapple on the finish. Enjoy it neat to appreciate its unique profile, or mix it into a margarita for a smoky twist on the classic.
Budget-Friendly Quality
At around $50, Animas Espadin offers excellent value. The attractive label is a tribute to Mayahuel, the Aztec goddess of agave.
Daily Delight: Mal Bien Espadin Mezcal
Craving a delicious mezcal for everyday enjoyment? Look no further than Mal Bien Espadin. This approachable mezcal is easy to sip yet offers intriguing complexity.
Made by Masters
Hailing from Ocotpec, Oaxaca, Mal Bien Espadin comes from the Hernandez family, boasting over 200 years of agave distilling experience. Their expertise shines through in this quality spirit.
Unique Strength and Flavor
Mal Bien Espadin stands out for its 90-proof bottling, uncommon for mezcal in this price range (around $40). On the palate, expect enticing aromas of cooked agave with subtle leather and a touch of sweet banana.
Easy Sipping, Great Value
Whether you're a mezcal newbie or a seasoned sipper, Mal Bien Espadin offers a delightful drinking experience at a fantastic price point, suggests agave spirits expert Neil Coleman.
La Luna: An Affordable Mezcal Gem
La Luna mezcal brings a taste of Michoacan, Mexico to your glass. Crafted by the Perez family since 1910, this spirit uses Cupreata agave, known for its unique flavor profile.
Earthy and Fruity Notes
La Luna offers a delightful balance between earthy minerals and refreshing fruits. Expect hints of cantaloupe and other tropical fruits, complemented by a subtle white pepper spice. The finish reveals a touch of ashiness, adding depth to the experience.
Excellent Value for Mezcal Lovers
At around $45, La Luna is a great choice for both mezcal aficionados and curious newcomers. Its quality and affordability make it a perfect introduction to this traditional Mexican spirit.
A Legacy in Every Sip: Vago Elote Mezcal
Vago Elote honors the legacy of the late Maestro Mezcalero Aquilino Garcia, now carried forward by his sons Temo and Mateo. This unique mezcal stands out for its toasted corn infusion, adding a touch of sweetness ("elote" means corn in Spanish).
Flavorful Journey
Vago Elote offers a delightful exploration for your palate. Expect a sweet base with hints of wood, honeycomb, and tropical fruits, balanced by a subtle smokiness. The exceptionally long finish rewards patient sippers with lingering notes of mint and vibrant papaya.
Great Value for Discerning Drinkers
At around $50, Vago Elote provides excellent value for the money. This flavorful mezcal is a true gem for those seeking a unique and memorable experience.
Eco-Conscious Choice: Montelobos Espadin Mezcal
Montelobos Espadin goes beyond taste, prioritizing sustainability with organic agave, waste reduction, and eco-friendly distilleries. They even partner with the Wolf Conservation Center!
Earthy & Balanced Flavor
Aromatic and inviting, Montelobos Espadin offers earthy green notes with hints of honey, citrus, asparagus, and a touch of smoke. The flavor profile showcases cooked agave alongside nutty, herbal, and smoky notes, creating a well-rounded experience.
Great Value for All
Priced around $50, Montelobos Espadin is a fantastic value for both mezcal veterans and those new to the spirit. Enjoy it neat, on the rocks, or in cocktails for a unique and delicious exploration.
Cheap Oaxaca Delight: Mezcal Madre
Hailing from Oaxaca, Mexico, Mezcal Madre, crafted by the Blas family, is a budget-friendly gem for every mezcal drinker. Don't let the price fool you – this mezcal offers surprising smoothness with a touch of sweetness, balanced by a subtle smokiness.
Perfect for Every Palate
A great choice for both mezcal newbies and experienced drinkers, Mezcal Madre's versatility shines. Enjoy it neat to appreciate its unique character, or use it in cocktails for a smoky twist on your favorites. At around $40, Mezcal Madre delivers exceptional value for an authentic Oaxacan mezcal experience.
Unveiling Affordability: Bozal Ensamble Mezcal
Looking for a budget-friendly introduction to Bozal's renowned mezcal quality? Look no further than their Ensamble expression, priced under $50.
Tradition in Every Bottle
Following the footsteps of time-honored mezcal production, Bozal Ensamble blends multiple agaves in a single batch. This traditional practice allows them to offer this bottle at a fantastic price point.
Value Beyond Price
Despite its affordability, Bozal Mezcal delivers remarkable value. This mezcal rivals pricier options with its subtle smokiness and intriguing herbal notes. It's a perfect choice for both newcomers seeking an approachable mezcal and enthusiasts wanting to experience Bozal's quality without breaking the bank.
How to Choose a Good Cheap Mezcal?
- Rely on Expert Guidance: Follow recommendations by agave spirits expert Neil Coleman and customer feedback.
- Opt for Known Brands: Choose from known Mezcals like Animas, Mal Bien Espadin, and La Luna Cupreata for assured quality.
- Flavor is Key: Look for smooth, distinctive flavors appealing to both beginners and seasoned Mezcal drinkers.
- Quality Ingredients: Ensure it's made from 100% agave and traditionally produced.
- Check Reviews: Consider expert opinions and customer reviews for real-world insights.
- Affordable Yet Rare: Seek Mezcals under $30, a challenging find given Mezcal's rising popularity.
- Sustainability Matters: Pick brands that promote sustainable practices and agave diversity.
- Balance Price and Quality: Ensure the Mezcal offers value for money, balancing cost and quality.
- Enjoy Responsibly: Whether sipping neat or in cocktails, savor the unique qualities responsibly.
Frequently Asked Questions
A quick FAQ to address inquiries:
Who provides expert advice for selecting affordable Mezcals?
- Agave spirits expert Neil Coleman and customer feedback guide the selection.
What are some recommended budget-friendly Mezcals?
- Recommended Mezcals include Animas, Mal Bien Espadin, and La Luna Cupreata.
What should I focus on when choosing an affordable Mezcal?
- Look for smooth, distinctive flavors suitable for both beginners and experienced drinkers.
What are the criteria for selecting these Mezcals?
- Selection criteria include 100% agave, traditional production, taste, expert and customer reviews, and value.
Why is it rare to find cheap Mezcals under $30?
- The surge in Mezcal's popularity has led to an increase in prices.
Does the selection of Mezcals consider sustainability?
- Yes, the selection ensures sustainable practices to preserve agave diversity.