Clase Azul Mezcal Durango Review

Last Updated on: 16th May 2024, 12:38 pm

Discover everything about Clase Azul Mezcal Durango in this in-depth review!

Reviewed by: J Highland

Clase Azul Mezcal Durango: Luxurious Presentation, High Price Point (Agave Cenizo from Durango)

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐

Clase Azul Mezcal Durango positions itself as a luxurious mezcal experience, as highlighted by mezcal expert Neil Coleman. Here's a detailed look at its notable characteristics:

Strengths

• Luxury Presentation: Known for its distinctive, high-quality bottle design that exemplifies luxury and craftsmanship.
• Unique Agave Varietal: Crafted from Cenizo agave, sourced from the Durango state in Mexico, offering a unique take on traditional mezcal.

Weaknesses

• High Price Point: Falls within a high price range, which might not appeal to all mezcal enthusiasts.
• Similar Flavor Profile: Some reviewers suggest its flavor profile is similar to other, more affordable Mezcals like Dos Hombres Mezcal and Casamigos Mezcal.

Verdict

Clase Azul Mezcal Durango is a high-end mezcal recognized for its luxurious presentation and unique Cenizo agave origins. However, its high price and flavor profile similarity to more affordable mezcals may be a consideration for some. Mezcal expert Neil Coleman suggests that those new to mezcal might explore other options offering comparable experiences at a lower cost.

What's special about it?

As is customary with Clase Azul releases, the Durango Mezcal comes in an exquisite black decanter, skillfully crafted by indigenous Mexican artists.

However, it carries a hefty price tag.

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Smoke, agave, old leather
• Palate: Agave, citrus, lemon
• Alcohol content: 88 proof (44% ABV)
• How to drink: Rocks
• Similar: Casamigos Mezcal

The nose of Durango Mezcal is delicate, requiring close proximity to detect its light aroma.

A hint of smoke, agave, and a touch of old leather can be discerned.

On the palate, it offers a sweet and smooth experience with a subtle smoky character.

Citrus and lemon flavors are prominent, accompanied by earthy and mineral notes.

However, it lacks body and feels diluted.

The finish is short and lacks warmth, leaving behind a lingering mineral impression.

How did I review Clase Azul Mezcal Durango?

I run a pub and a liquor store, granting me extensive access to various spirits, in addition, I moonlight as an agave spirits distiller.

My evaluations include my insights and feedback from customers and patrons and Tequila expert opinions from Neil Coleman who has been for decades in the liquor business.

I also corroborate my views with online research to ensure accuracy.

Our ratings are determined primarily by four key factors: aroma, taste, finish, and value for money. While we do consider packaging, it is of lesser importance to us, as we prioritize the quality of the liquid inside over the aesthetics of the bottle.

⭐ - Poor, ⭐⭐ - Average, ⭐⭐⭐ - Good, ⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Very Good, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Excellent.

Frequently Asked Questions

Price

• The price of Clase Azul Mezcal Durango is approximately $330 USD. While it offers a unique sipping experience, its high price tag can be challenging to justify, especially considering that there are other superior-quality mezcals available at a fraction of this cost.

How to Drink

• Clase Azul Mezcal Durango is best enjoyed neat for a smooth sipping experience. For those who prefer their mezcal chilled, trying it on the rocks can be a delightful alternative, though not traditional. Given its premium price, it's advisable to savor this mezcal in its pure form rather than using it for shots or mixed drinks.

Production Process

• This mezcal is made from wild maguey Cenizo, which matures over 15 years, primarily in the state of Durango. Clase Azul employs a traditional palenque distillation process, with a unique twist of hand-milling the agave, emphasizing the craftsmanship involved in its production.

Craftsmanship

• Produced in Durango, a region accounting for a small percentage of Mexico's total mezcal output, Clase Azul Mezcal Durango benefits from the state's distinctive agave variety and traditional production methods, distinguishing it from the majority of mezcals produced in Oaxaca.

Clase Azul Mezcal: Specs

• Type: Joven
• Proof: 88
• 100% Agave: Yes
• ABV: 44%
• Double-distilled: Yes
• Aging Length: Unaged
• Flavor Profile: Offers a medium sweetness with very little smokiness, making it suitable for beginners but perhaps not for those seeking a traditional mezcal experience.
• Suitability for Cocktails: Given its high cost and distinct flavor profile, it's not recommended for cocktails.
• Dietary Info: Gluten-free, Keto-friendly, Kosher