Ilegal Reposado Mezcal, 70cl, 40% ABV

Product Information

Montelobos Tobalá: This tobalá has a fruit-forward flavor profile that's bolstered by notes of pepper and fig with a bit of a savory finish. This one should be easy to find for anyone curious about trying a tobalá mezcal. Mezcal may seem like a hot, up-and-coming spirit, but it has been around for centuries. "It has a rich cultural history all over Mexico," says Max Reis, agave spirits expert and beverage director at Mírate in Los Angeles. For most of its existence, mezcal was produced on a small scale to commemorate special occasions. Many mezcaleros (mezcal producers) still craft their mezcals using traditional techniques passed down through the generations. Ilegal was founded in 2006 by John Rexer, who spent years working with small Oaxaca-based distillers to make mezcal for his bar in Guatemala. There is a great deal of diversity in the mezcal world. Unlike tequila, it can be made in 9 different Mexican states from around 40 different species of agave. "In my eyes, if it's made from agave in Mexico, it's a mezcal," says bartender and agave spirit educator Lucas Assis. Each species of agave, as well as those grown in different microclimates, imparts a different flavor profile.

Between now and 2027, the agave spirits sector is predicted to become the sixth-largest category globally. Bacardi’s agave spirits portfolio also includes Tequila brands Patrón, Cazadores, Corzo and Camino Real. The mezcal is famous for its guerilla marketing campaign, Donald Eres Un Pendejo (translation: Donald, you’re an asshole). Launched two days after Trump announced his candidacy for president in 2015, the campaign was a response to racist remarks Trump made about Mexican immigrants. (Most notably, he called them “rapists.”) Artesanal: The term "artesanal" is defined by the Mexican government and refers to a specific production style. Mezcaleros distill in copper stills and use stone wheels pulled by animals to crush the roasted agave.Brand director Kaylan Rexer cooks a lot of Mexican food, and often uses mezcal in her recipes. When she does, she told Bustle in 2017, “I always use chilis … I love the smoke mixed with agave flavors of Mezcal, and the spiciness of chili.” Ilegal Mezcal loves people and hates inequality. Ensemble: Mezcals that are distilled from a variety of agave species are known as an ensemble. Historically, people who made mezcal used whatever species of agave were available to them and mature enough to harvest. The insights I’ve gained aren’t just from books or hearsay; they are the result of hands-on experience, countless tastings, and an enduring passion for these spirits. Mezcal is made of different species of agave plants that are then cooked, crushed, fermented, and distilled into an alcoholic spirit. Mezcal can be made from around 40 varieties of agave subspecies, but the most commonly used species is espadín. Other agaves such as tobalá, cuishe, cupreata, and barríl are commonly used as well.

Dos Hombres: This approachable and accessible mezcal would make a solid introductory bottle for newcomers, though seasoned mezcal drinkers might find it a bit underwhelming. Dos Hombres would also make a great gift for fans of "Breaking Bad," as the brand is owned by co-stars Bryan Cranston and Aaron Paul. Its NYC headquarters also doubles as an art gallery where it hosts a curated quarterly series supporting independent artists. One show, Ilegal Pride, donated a portion of proceeds to LGBTQ youth charities. It’s crafted by hand and hoof.Gracias a Díos Espadín: This Oaxacan mezcal made purely from espadín agave has a strong, ethanol-forward scent, but tastes like sweet, cooked agave with a dash of spice.