Review: Lejana Y Sola Mezcal Joven
Lejana Y Sola (“afar and alone”) is a sister brand of PaQui Tequila, which we reviewed when it was first released a whopping 11 years ago. This joven mezcal is an “ensemble” made from espadin and cuishe and is made in Lachila, Oaxaca via traditional methods that include the use of a horse-drawn tahona to crush the agave.
This is a delightful little mezcal. The nose is sweet and only mildly smoky — citrusy with a light vanilla note, backed up by a touch of campfire smoke and sweet mesquite. The mezcal is just as lively on the palate, a gentle caramel note kicking things off and a punchy lemon-orange character perking up right away. A strong saline and mineral note becomes evident in short order, which is effective at tempering the smoky elements that linger around the edges of the spirit. It’s never overwhelming with smokiness even on the finish, the citrus notes coming off as practically fresh-squeezed and continuing to burst on the tongue well into the conclusion.
This may not be the most complex mezcal I’ve ever tasted, but it’s impossible not to fall for its brightness and sunshine. Excellent for mixing, too.
84 proof.
A / $60 / lejanaysola.com
Lejana Y Sola Mezcal Joven
$60
