Last Updated on: 5th April 2024, 11:07 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.
Discover the differences between Del Maguey Chichicapa vs Del Maguey Minero in this in-depth comparison and decide which Mezcal is better for You!
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.
Written by: J Highland
Chichicapa vs Minero: Head-to-Head
Del Maguey Chichicapa: Smoky aroma with roasted agave and corn. Flavors include dried fruit, nuts, and a creamy texture. Enjoy on rocks or in cocktails. Handcrafted without synthetic inputs.
Del Maguey Minero: Earthy and ripe fruit nose with a complex palate of clay, leather, and cinnamon. Smooth despite its depth, best enjoyed on rocks. Distilled in clay pots for a unique flavor.
Verdict: Both mezcals offer a deep, enriching experience. Del Maguey Chichicapa caters to those enjoying smoky, rich flavors. Del Maguey Minero appeals to lovers of earthy complexity. Each stands out for its handcrafted tradition and unique taste profile, states agave spirits expert Neil Coleman.
Related: Top-Selling Mezcal Bottles in Mexico
Del Maguey Chichicapa: A Smoky Symphony for the Adventurous Palate
- Nose: Roasted agave, roasted corn
- Palate: Dried fruit, nuts, smoky ash, agave
- Alcohol content: 92 proof (46% ABV)
- How to drink: Rocks, cocktails
- Similar to: Del Maguey Vida
Aromatic Depth: Del Maguey Chichicapa unveils a pronounced aroma of roasted agave, intertwined with hints of roasted corn and a touch of smoke.
Rich & Creamy: The palate is met with a rich and creamy texture, offering delicate notes of dried fruit, roasted nuts, smoky ash, and distinct agave.
Lingering Harmony: The finish delivers a delightful combination of bitter chocolate, smoke, and refreshing mint, leaving a lasting impression.
A Gateway to Mezcal: This mezcal has been a personal favorite, serving as an excellent introduction to the world of mezcal. Its smoky characteristics hold appeal for those who enjoy peaty Islay Scotch whiskies.
Depth & Complexity: Del Maguey Chichicapa boasts a full-bodied character with a remarkable depth of flavor. The interplay of smoky and spicy elements takes center stage, followed by the sweetness of agave. This harmonious balance and richness make it particularly appealing to seasoned spirits enthusiasts.
Aficionado’s Choice: Del Maguey Chichicapa stands out as a reliable choice for experienced spirits drinkers who appreciate unique character. Enjoy it neat or on the rocks to fully experience its multifaceted profile.
Handcrafted Tradition: This mezcal is hand-crafted in San Baltazar Chichicapam, Oaxaca by Faustino Garcia. It uses espadin agave cultivated without synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, or herbicides. Bottled at 92 proof, it remains free of worms, upholding traditional production methods.
Del Maguey Minero: A Complex Mezcal for the Discerning Palate
- Nose: Clay, ripe fruit, smoke
- Palate: Clay, leather, charcoal, cinnamon, lemon zest
- Alcohol content: 92 proof (46% ABV)
- How to drink: Rocks, cocktails
- Similar to: Del Maguey Vida
Earthy & Fruity Aroma: Del Maguey Minero unfolds with earthy and clay notes, followed by hints of ripe fruit and a touch of smoke.
Rich & Complex Flavor: The taste profile is a captivating blend of leather, charcoal, cinnamon, and lemon zest, layered with an underlying earthy note for depth.
Long, Warming Finish: The finish is notably long, leaving a pleasant warmth and a lingering earthy nuance.
Clay Pot Influence: This unique mezcal undergoes double distillation in clay pots, significantly shaping its flavor profile. This process results in a creamy body with a multitude of well-balanced flavors, showcasing the characteristic earthiness associated with clay pot distillation.
Smooth & Approachable: Despite its intense flavor profile, Del Maguey Minero remains remarkably smooth and lacks any harshness.
Aficionado’s Choice: While its complex character may be overwhelming for newcomers, this mezcal is particularly appealing to individuals with a well-developed palate who appreciate exploring the nuances of spirits.
Exploring Mezcal Depth: Del Maguey Minero stands out as an excellent choice for experienced mezcal drinkers seeking to delve into the distinctive flavors imparted by clay pot distillation.
Local Gem: Handcrafted in Santa Catarina de Minas, Mexico, Del Maguey Minero offers a taste of this region’s traditional ancestral methods, including the use of clay pot stills.
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Mezcal | Price |
| Del Maguey Chichicapa | $75 |
| Del Maguey Minero | $90 |