Maguey Melate Jabali
Produced by: Santo Martinez Cruz
his rare wild agave is one of the most difficult to work with. The extremely low sugar levels and tendency to foam make it one of the mezcalero's least favorite, but it's unique character is undeniably intriguing. This version of the special plant was made by the Maestro Santo Martinez Crus in the high elevation villages to the east of Mataltlan. The Albarradas area is well known for producing exceptional quality spirits and Santo Martinez cruz is certianly not the exception. Easily one of the best Jabali we've ever come across, which can be delicious although occasionally overly perfumed. This one is splendid though filled with roasted fruit, wild herbs, vanilla and a candied sweetness. The plants were 15-18 years old when harvest and roasted for 5 days underground before fermentation in pine vats. Double distillation on small copper pots before adjustments with heads and tails. Only 180 liters were produced of which just 12 bottles are available exclusively at K&L Wine Merchants.
The Producer
Celebrating craftsmanship, tradition, and sustainability. Maguey me late (muh-gay may lah-tay) literally translates to “agave makes my heart beat” – it represents our love for this spirit, tradition, and region.
Our mission is to preserve and promote traditional agave spirit production methods, culture, and family owned palenques in a value-packed way that serves as an opposing force to the faster-cheaper economy.
As mezcal is rapidly discovered around the world, it’s very challenging for consumers to fully grasp exactly what it is, where it comes from, and how to fully enjoy its many nuances that make it so unique and exciting. This ultimately makes it harder to fully appreciate artisanal mezcal and easier for big business to exploit the opportunities offered by mass-produced industrial mezcal.
Start stocking the best this great wide world has to offer, the spirits will thank you.