Mezcal Unión El Viejo

Mezcal Unión El Viejo shines when sipped neat at room temperature, allowing its complex flavors to unfold on the palate, though it also works beautifully in smoky variations of classic cocktails. This robust mezcal is perfect for cool autumn evenings, paired with rich, grilled meats or spicy Mexican dishes that complement its earthy, slightly sweet profile.

Nose: Smoke and roasted agave dominate, with undertones of citrus peel and wet earth. A hint of green herbs and white pepper adds complexity.

Palate: Rich and full-bodied. The smoky character carries through, joined by flavors of grilled pineapple and cooked agave. Notes of leather, black pepper, and a touch of vanilla emerge. A slight minerality provides balance.

Finish: Long and warming. The smoke lingers, accompanied by a gentle sweetness reminiscent of caramelized fruits. A subtle astringency and peppery spice round out the experience, leaving a pleasantly dry sensation.

Mezcal Unión El Viejo is crafted using a blend of wild agave Espadín and rare, 25-year-old Coyote agaves, which are roasted in underground pits for several days before being crushed by a traditional stone wheel. This unique combination of agaves, along with the extended roasting process, imparts a complex flavor profile that balances smoky notes with subtle fruity and herbal undertones.

• Mezcal Unión El Viejo is made from wild agave plants that are up to 25 years old, harvested by hand from the rugged mountains of Oaxaca. These ancient plants contribute to the mezcal's incredibly complex flavor profile, which includes notes of wet earth, roasted nuts, and tropical fruit.
• Unlike many mezcals, El Viejo is produced using a unique blend of three different agave species: Espadín, Cirial, and Barril. This combination creates a harmonious balance between smoky, herbaceous, and sweet flavors that's rarely found in single-varietal mezcals.
• The brand behind El Viejo, Mezcal Unión, operates on a cooperative model that ensures fair wages and sustainable practices. They've even established an agave reforestation program, planting three new agaves for every one harvested, helping to preserve both the land and the traditional mezcal-making culture for future generations.