Review: Rosaluna Mezcal Joven
Rosaluna is a 100% espadin mezcal from Santiago Matatlan in Oaxaca, developed by co-founders Nate Brown (“the creative mind behind brands such as Yeezy, Beyonce, Alexander Wang, and more”) and Terry Lee (advisor to the likes of Thrive Market and Sundays). The product is distilled by brother-sister duo Frida and Juan Jiménez who have been growing, fermenting, and distilling agave for six generations.
At present, a single expression — unaged espadin — is available. Let’s give it a try.
The nose here is nothing special, an indistinct wood fire smoke with a meaty edge to it, slightly salty but otherwise rather flat. The palate is where things come more clearly to life, with distinct fruit coming into focus. Grilled pineapple and lemon peel are surprisingly vibrant here given their absence on the nose, though everything is filtered through black pepper and notes of mixed herbs — and a touch of pushy acetone. The finish reprises some of the heavier smoke and meatier elements evident on the nose, the mezcal’s lingering fruit elements coming off here as a touch overripe.
80 proof.
B+ / $39 / mezcalrosaluna.com [BUY IT NOW FROM TOTAL WINE]
Rosaluna Mezcal Joven
$39
