Neta Espadín Capón Mezcal - 2020

Hermogenes Vasquez Garcia is just producing some of the best batches of agave distillate in Logoche, Miahuatlán. The secret was out long before I came upon this stellar batch of Espadin. This batch just further reinforces that notion. Many mezcaleros use this agave due to its larger yields, easy reproductibility, and quick maturation. Espadin batches allow for comparisons between terroir and production methods because it is so widely planted throughout Oaxaca. The breadth of flavors that Hermogenes is able to extract from this agave is nothing short of incredible: tropical fruit, floral perfumes, old leathers, roasted nuts, with heaps of lactic funk interwoven throughout. At an awesome 50.5% ABV, this allows the heady notes to punch through with full intensity and complexity, a masterclass of agave production.