Pajaro Ensamble Mezcal

In the world of agave, there's sadly a lot of garbage and greenwashing. Thankfully for mindful mezcal drinkers, there are people like Beatriz Maida Pacas. Maida is the mind behind Pajaro Agave Spirits, a collective she started with the goal of bringing family-produced mezcal to consumers at prices that sustain everyone involved. Her Ensamble Mezcal, made by Maestro Agustín Güendulain Maya in Miahuatlán, Oaxaca, hits the sweet spot in her small but mighty lineup: it’s made from a blend of 8 year-old Espadín and 12-14 year-old Madrecuishe that’s fermented in wood, roasted in a conical earthen oven, and twice distilled. The result is a cut above the competition: aromas of sweet apple, flowers, and citrus give way to a bright, earthy palate with notes of meyer lemon, green herbs and a complex finish. Sip neat or in cocktails with pride.