Last Updated on: 24th January 2024, 01:40 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 rich world of Ensamble Mezcal in this complete guide, exploring its unique blends, diverse flavors, and expert recommendations for an unparalleled artisanal spirit experience.
Written by: J Highland
What is Ensamble Mezcal?
“Ensamble Mezcal is crafted by combining two or more types of agaves, all roasted together in the same batch. In the past, mezcal production predominantly involved blending various agave plants found within the local vicinity. However, it was in 1995 when Ron Cooper began labeling his Del Maguey releases that the trend of highlighting single-variety mezcals gained momentum.”, mentions Mezcal expert Neil Coleman.
Related article: Del Maguey Mezcal – FAQ & Reviews
What agaves are used in an Ensamble Mezcal?
The beauty of Ensamble Mezcal lies in its freedom from rigid rules.
Each skilled distiller has the liberty to select and blend agaves according to their preferences, without any set proportions.
In its simplest form, an ensamble typically combines two distinct agave varieties, such as espadin and tobala or espadin and arroqueño.
However, it is not uncommon to encounter more elaborate releases featuring a harmonious blend of up to six different agave plants.
How does it taste?
Due to the unique characteristics of each agave and the unpredictable blending ratios employed by distillers, the flavor profile of an Ensamble Mezcal becomes an intriguing mystery waiting to be discovered.
No two ensambles are alike in this world.
| Type of Mezcal | Flavor profile |
| Espadin | Mineral & Neutral |
| Tobala | Floral |
| Tepextate | Spicy |
| Cuishe | Mineral |
| Jabali | Citrus |
The possibilities are endless!
How to drink it?
Savor these pours neat to fully appreciate their rich flavors.
If you prefer a chilled drink without dilution, add large ice cubes.
For cocktail enthusiasts, Banhez is an excellent choice for a margarita among the options provided.
Ensamble prices
Prices vary widely among ensambles.
Quality ensambles start at $50 USD and don’t be surprised to see others offered at $200 such as Sombra.
Someone has to pay for Sombra’s solar-powered mill!
Ensamble mezcal recommendations
I have selected this for you:
Bozal Ensamble Espadin + Barril
Bozal has earned a special place among my preferred brands due to its exceptional offerings that stand out within their respective categories.
Since its inception, Bozal has experienced remarkable growth, capturing the attention of discerning aficionados with its limited-production releases.
A noteworthy aspect of Bozal’s ethos is its strong commitment to agave replanting and sustainable practices.
For every harvested agave, two more are planted in a nursery, ensuring the preservation of this precious resource.
Bozal Ensamble, crafted from Barril, Espadin, and Mexicano agaves, delights the palate with a harmonious blend of sweet herbal notes and just the right touch of smoke. It is a truly satisfying mezcal experience.
Vago Ensamble en Barro
The palenque (mezcal distillery) and agave fields of Salomón Rey Rodriguez (Tio Rey) are located in the region Sola de Vega.
The region distills almost exclusively using clay pots adding an earthy flavor to the spirit making it delicious.
Tio Rey doesn’t use any mechanical tools or machinery to craft mezcal; this method is known as Ancestral.
Each release of Vago Ensamble en Barro is different as Tio Rey mixes at will.
Related article: Mezcal Vago – Reviews & FAQ
Banhez Ensemble
Banhez is a cooperative of 36 farming families from various villages in the Ejutla district of Oaxaca.
They craft mezcal in the same way they’ve known for 200 years, with intensive hard work.
Comprised of 90% Espadín and 10% Barril agaves, this mezcal is incredibly smooth, with rich floral notes along with banana and pineapple flavors.
Banhez Ensamble is a great match for first-time mezcal drinkers and makes a good mixer.
Related article: Banhez Mezcal
Sombra Ensamble
Sombra, which translates to “shadow” in Spanish, proudly holds the distinction of being the most environmentally conscious mezcal producer in Oaxaca.
Their commitment to sustainability is evident in their use of a solar-powered millstone for agave crushing, replacing traditional methods involving animals.
Furthermore, Sombra leads the Sombra Adobe Brick project, creatively repurposing distillation waste to construct homes for those in need.
This remarkable Ensamble showcases the excellence of Tobala and Tepextate, two agaves that hold a special place in my heart.
Sombra nicely balances the spicy character of Tepextate with the delicate floral nuances of Tobala, resulting in a mezcal that is surprisingly smooth and approachable, despite its higher alcohol content.
Sipping on Sombra is a true pleasure, allowing you to fully appreciate the artistry and craftsmanship that goes into every bottle.
Madre Mezcal Ensamble
Madre is an artisanal mezcal produced by Jose Garcia in San Dionisio, Oaxaca, using a traditional Zapotec recipe.
Handcrafted in small batches, it combines Espadin and Cuishe agaves and is distilled in a family heirloom copper pot still.
The agaves are roasted in an underground pit and fermented with well-water and natural yeasts.
Madre offers a sweet smoke aroma, earthy herbal notes of sage, mineral undertones, and a lingering floral finish.
Related article: Is Madre Mezcal Good?