Mala Mia Mezcal
Mala Mía Mezcal is an artisanal mezcal brand that captures the essence of traditional Oaxacan craftsmanship. Founded by Devin T. Adams.
Tasting Notes:
Espadín:
Nose: Crisp citrus notes of mandarin orange mingle with earthy pine aromas, with hints of slate and mineral undertones.
Palate: Smooth and well-balanced, with a slightly sweet entry. Fresh citrus flavors dominate, reminiscent of mandarin and lime zest, complemented by herbal notes of pine and agave, and a gentle smokiness.
Finish: Medium-length and clean, with the citrus notes fading to leave a pleasant combination of mineral and pine flavors, and a subtle warmth with just a whisper of smoke.
Ensamble:
Nose: A pleasant mix of sweet and smoky notes, lightly briny but otherwise indistinct with secondary aromatics.
Palate: Shows off the mezcal’s sweeter side, with elements of vanilla wafers, lemon curd, caramel, and some milk chocolate in the mix, with a certain marshmallows-round-the-campfire quality.
Finish: Touched with mint on the finish, making for a delightfully different after-dinner drink.
Cuishe:
Nose: An aggressively smoky mezcal with sharp overtones evoking burnt citrus peel and salty beach bonfire.
Palate: Similar elements on the palate evoke smoked lemon curd braising on a mesquite fire, with a lightly vegetal seaweed quality late in the game.
Finish: A bright pop of orange citrus gives the finish a needed lift, but the whole of the experience is deeply brooding and laden with that heavy bonfire quality.
Tepeztate:
Nose: Mildly to moderately smoky, with more fruit on the nose and a restrained beefiness that adds a savory touch.
Palate: Chewy on the palate, thanks in part to a slightly higher ABV, but with a toasty vanilla wafer quality that quickly sweetens things up, and hints of anise.
Finish: Bold but balanced, it feels like the most versatile expression in the collection, while still packing in plenty of smokiness.