Mezcal Amaras Logia Cenizo Mezcal (700ml)

Part of the limited edition 'Logio' series, Cenizo is a well-regarded artisanal mezcal crafted from the wild Agave durangensis (aka Cenzio), grown in Durango, Mexico. Amaras' product should not be confused with non-certified agave spirits that use the term “Cenizo” freely to refer to different plants. Usually found at altitudes up to 8,500 feet in dry, cold conditions, the Cenzio agave takes roughly 14 years to mature. Once harvested, the plants are cooked with local mesquite and huisache wood, followed by open air fermentation. According to the producers, this expression strikes a balance between smoky and citric aromas on the nose, to bold and intense hints of roasted coffee beans. Mezcalreview.com add, "Aromas frequently feature earthy notes and a distinct funk, often with hints of pine or fruit. Flavours commonly present are sweet cooked agave, earthy tones, and a noticeable lactic funk, sometimes with a spicy or briny finish. The mouthfeel is generally described as smooth and silky. Overall, it is highly regarded as a complex and enjoyable spirit with a unique profile."

Other reviews... rich, viscous and soft on the palate, high in minerality (from the the region's dry volcanic soil) and leaves just a wisp of smoke from roasting in a conical oven over volcanic stones heated by mesquite and huiscahe woods... This is a terrific spirit in every respect. To those who think mezcal is all smoke and burned rubber, this isn't that at all. The agave is on display here, as is the distiller's skill to render the plant's character more than the way it was cooked. For anyone hoping to step into mezcal, this is a great starting point. No cocktail buffer needed, just sip it neat. Embrace the delicate funk, wait for sour tart fruits and petrichor to show up and you'll be rewarded handsomely. - bourbonbanter.com

Founded in 2010 by Santiago Suarez and Luis Niño de Rivera, Mezcal Amaras’ founding principal is to produce the highest quality mezcals as sustainably as possible – it is the world’s first carbon neutral mezcal company, harvesting a variety of cultivated and wild agaves and planting 10 agaves for each one harvested. Handcrafted by the best Maestros Mezcaleros from three mezcal regions in Mexico: Oaxaca, Guerrero, and Durango, each bottle of Mezcal Amarás contains the rich history of traditional mezcal production. Additionally, 20% of the net sale of each bottle is allocated to the development of internal initiatives associated with social and environmental responsibility, as well as ensuring mezcaleros are paid a fair price and receive educational courses and business training.