Claridad Mezcal Ensamble de Siete

An extraordinary achievement in Oaxacan field blending, this January 2022 micro-batch from maestro Onofre Ortíz Ortíz brings together seven distinct agaves; Tepeztate, Jabalí, Espadín, Tobalá, Bicuishe, Madrecuishe, and Mexicano ranging from 8 to 20 years of maturity. After an oak pit-roast and traditional cypress-tank fermentation, double distillation in copper alembic stills yielded a mere 700 liters. While you can trace individual varietal notes if you try, the real magic is how seamlessly they intertwine into a lush, layered profile that opens rich and sweet before rolling across the palate in waves.

The nose leaps out with a stunning array of Marcona almonds, fresh linen, sage, chocolate malt balls, a subtle touch of parmesan, and roasted bell pepper. The palate expands into a savory-sweet triumph featuring stewed and salted tomato, toasted cinnamon, burnt orange zest, caramel apple, candied yam, wet pine, pink peppercorn, and a soft dollop of sweet cream. Thrilling, harmonious, and remarkably complex, this Ensamble de Siete is an absolute stunner for any serious agave collector or enthusiast.

• Producer: Claridad
• Region: Oaxaca, Mexico
• Spirit: Mezcal
• Alcohol: 45.5%