Review: Pierde Almas Mezcal Espadin Joven

By Christopher Null | February 27, 2021 |

Oaxaca-based Pierde Almas produces at least 8 different mezcal expressions, including this unaged joven bottling made from 100% espadin agave, naturally fermented in small wooden vats and double distilled in copper pots. No flavorings or additives.

Boldly smoky on the nose, this is a very intense mezcal that pours on the campfire character. Notes of saline, green herbs, and pepper complement the aggressive aromatics, but if you’re not prepared for a smoky slugfest from the start, best to quit now while you’re ahead. The palate settles into a gentler groove, if slowly, offering some lime-heavy citrus and a muddle white sugar note sweetening things up. There’s plenty of smoke here, of course, and at nearly 50% abv, plenty of heat too — yet the overall experience is approachable and not too overbearing.

The finish finds room for lingering sweetness, chewy nougat, walnut, and vanilla notes — but rest assured, that ashy smokiness is never far away. Finessed it ain’t.

98 proof. Reviewed: Lote# 20-SJR.

B+ / $60 / udiga.com/pierde-almas [BUY IT NOW FROM TOTAL WINE]