Best Sipping Mezcals of 2024

Last Updated on: 17th May 2024, 05:48 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 hand-picked the top sipping Mezcals.

Discover your next favorite!

Written by: J Highland

Choosing the Best Sipping Mezcal

• Top Sipping Mezcals, hand-picked with agave spirits expert Neil Coleman: Banhez Joven, Madre Mezcal, Fidencio Sin Humo, Montelobos, Rey Campero Espadin, Vago Espadin Joel Barriga, El Jolgorio Espadin.
• Drinking Sipping Mezcals: Enjoy slowly, suitable for both beginners and experienced drinkers.
• Choosing a Smooth Sipping Mezcal: Look for ripe agave, traditional cooking methods, slow fermentation, no additives, and reputable producers.
• 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 Sipping Mezcals

Prices are approximate and stated in USD:

Banhez Joven: Your Mezcal Gateway

Banhez Joven is a mezcal bottled right after distillation, offering a budget-friendly option for both sipping and mixing, states agave spirits expert Neil Coleman.

This mezcal boasts a unique fruity profile with hints of lime, banana, star fruit, and papaya balanced by a subtle smokiness. Perfect for mezcal beginners, Banhez Joven provides a smooth introduction to this distinctive spirit, inviting you to explore its exciting world.

Madre Espadin: A Smooth Mezcal Introduction

Madre Espadin, crafted by hand in Oaxaca using time-honored Zapotec methods, embodies tradition. This small-batch mezcal utilizes centuries-old agave harvesting techniques, resulting in a high-quality spirit.

Madre Espadin is a perfect choice for those new to mezcal. Its smooth, approachable profile offers a gentle introduction to this complex spirit. The flavor profile is characterized by a clean vanilla essence, free from excessive smokiness or harshness.

Furthermore, Mezcal Madre Espadin shines as a versatile mixer, harmonizing well with any cocktail. This, coupled with its attractive price point, makes it a well-rounded and accessible option for mezcal enthusiasts.

Fidencio Sin Humo: A Smoke-Free Mezcal Experience

Fidencio Sin Humo caters to those seeking a mezcal free from smoky notes. It achieves this by using a radiant oven to cook the agaves, unlike traditional pit methods that incorporate wood and coal smoke.

The resulting spirit boasts a delightful profile of vanilla, caramelized pineapple, honey, and hints of spice. The exceptionally smooth finish is accented by refreshing citrus undertones.

Fidencio Sin Humo's quality is validated by its Gold Medal win at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, making it a fantastic choice for those seeking a unique and smoke-free mezcal experience.

Montelobos Espadin: Sustainable Mezcal with Soul

Montelobos Espadin goes beyond taste. Crafted with organic espadin agave, free from harmful chemicals, they champion sustainability through waste composting and eco-friendly practices. Their partnership with the Wolf Conservation Center underscores their commitment to environmental responsibility.

But the magic lies within the bottle. Montelobos Espadin opens with earthy and green notes, accented by honey, citrus, and a hint of smoke. The taste is a symphony of cooked agave, nutty and herbal tones, with a subtle smoky finish.

This remarkable quality, coupled with its affordability, makes Montelobos Espadin a top contender for best-value mezcal. Enjoy it neat, on the rocks, or in your favorite cocktail – its versatility shines through.

Rey Campero: The King of Smooth Mezcal

Earning its reputation as the "King of the Countryside," Rey Campero boasts a prestigious seven-year legacy in Oaxacan mezcal production. Their Espadin mezcal is renowned for its exceptional smoothness, complemented by a subtle smoky touch.

On the palate, it delivers a rich tapestry of mineral notes interwoven with a delightful blend of fruity flavors – pineapple, grapefruit, vanilla, and a hint of lime. Rey Campero's versatility shines through, be it enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or as a key ingredient in a refreshing margarita. Widely regarded as a top choice for sipping mezcals, Rey Campero promises an exceptional drinking experience.

Vago Espadin Joel Barriga: A Family Legacy in Every Sip

Crafted by Joel Barriga, a third-generation distiller and cousin of Vago Mezcal's Aquilino Garcia, this Espadin mezcal boasts a rich heritage. Alongside his son, Barriga has become a respected name in the industry.

Prepare to be captivated by its unique fruity profile. The star of the show is a pronounced mango flavor, perfectly balanced by hints of spearmint and roasted agave. Remarkably smooth despite its high ABV exceeding 50%, this mezcal is a testament to Barriga's skill.

In fact, its exceptional quality has won over even the most casual drinkers – including my own sister-in-law, who rarely touches alcohol but thoroughly enjoys this expression. Barriga Espadin is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for both mezcal veterans and those new to the spirit.

El Jolgorio Espadin: Aged Excellence in Mezcal

El Jolgorio, a premium brand with roots in Casa Cortes' 170-year agave distilling legacy, is known for exceptional mezcals. In a world where mezcal typically isn't aged, El Jolgorio Espadin defies expectations. This expression undergoes a unique five-year aging process in glass, resulting in unparalleled smoothness.

This innovative technique eliminates harshness, creating an incredibly approachable spirit. The resulting texture is luxuriously creamy, making it a strong contender for the smoothest mezcal on this list. El Jolgorio Espadin embodies the brand's dedication to quality and craftsmanship. It's a must-try for mezcal enthusiasts seeking an extraordinary sipping experience.

How to Choose a Smooth Sipping Mezcal

Selecting a smooth mezcal for sipping involves understanding key factors that contribute to its quality and smoothness. Here are essential aspects to consider when choosing a mezcal that's perfect for sipping.

Key Factors for Smooth Mezcal

1. Ripe Agave Selection: The maturity of the agave plant significantly impacts the smoothness of mezcal. Look for mezcals made from agave that has matured for at least 8-10 years, as this allows for the development of richer, more nuanced flavors.
2. Traditional Cooking Method: Mezcals cooked in earthen pits lined with volcanic rocks absorb complex flavors from the earth and wood smoke. This traditional method imparts a distinctive smoothness and depth to the spirit.
3. Slow Fermentation: Mezcals that undergo a slow, natural fermentation process often develop smoother and more complex flavor profiles. This process can be influenced by factors like the use of wooden vats or open-air fermentation, which introduce wild yeasts.
4. Distillation Process: The distillation method and the skill of the mezcalero (mezcal producer) play crucial roles. Double distillation in copper or clay pots can produce a smoother mezcal.
5. No Additives: Pure mezcals without additives or flavorings tend to be smoother. Additives can alter the natural balance of the spirit, impacting its smoothness.

Tips for Choosing Smooth Mezcal

• Read Labels Carefully: Look for mezcals labeled as "100% agave" and check for information about the age of the agave, the cooking method, and the type of distillation used.
• Research Producers: Opt for mezcals from reputable producers known for their artisanal methods and attention to detail.
• Seek Recommendations: Consult recommendations from mezcal experts or enthusiasts, as they often have insights into the smoothest varieties.

Conclusion

Choosing a smooth mezcal for sipping is about understanding the nuances of its production. Factors like the maturity of the agave, traditional cooking methods, natural fermentation, and artisanal distillation are key to finding a mezcal that offers a rich and smooth sipping experience. By focusing on these aspects, you can select a mezcal that is not only enjoyable but also a true representation of this unique and traditional spirit.