First off, this mezcal greets you with a floral vibe, with some tropical fruit—think ripe guava and a touch of papaya. Also cinnamon.
On the palate… I would call it subtle complexity with a bit of creamy chocolate, complemented by well balanced smoke—neither too bold nor too shy, just enough to remind you it’s mezcal you’re sipping on.
You expect some sweetness and juicy flavor out of a tobala, but in this instance you’re getting a tropical rainforest of flavor. It takes a couple copitas to really break down the complexity. It was hard to rate. I would have given it 3.5.
It’s tart, it’s vegetal, has a rather low level of smoke (which I like). Definitely one the more complex side, so it’s a very interesting sipper. Also has some sweetness and mineral elements. Good one! It gets better the more you have of it! 😉
This mezcal has such a unique taste! I never knew mezcal could be this smooth and flavorful. Definitely a good surprise!
Tepeztate is easily my favorite varietal, and Banhez does not disappoint in the least bit. I would drink this any day.
Banhez Mezcal is a cooperative of 36 farming families from San Miguel Ejutla, Oaxaca. Founded by Francisco Javier, inspired by his mother's teachings on agave cultivation, the brand has transformed mezcal-making into a community-driven endeavor. After his mother and brother's passing, Francisco continued their legacy, becoming the president of the National Mezcal Council in 2004. He later established the Consejo Oaxaqueño del Maguey Mezcal for local mezcaleros. Today, under the leadership of his son, Luis, the Banhez Cooperative forms the Unión Productores de Agropecuarios del Distrito de Ejutla de Crespo (UPADEC), championing quality, tradition, and community upliftment. Their commitment ensures consistent work, fair wages, and a brighter future for mezcalero families.