There’s a reason people usually recommend the Vida as a starter mezcal: It’s easy to drink. You don’t get the typical ethanol bite on the first sip that you get with many Espadins, making it super approachable. It’s mostly smooth throughout the sip and leaves your palate with a strong campfire smoke. It’s also worth noting that it’s only 42% ABV, which partially explains the lack of bite.

Sweet, musky and cheesy. I find Del Maguey to be a bit hit and miss (trying to appease all audiences), but this one should please everyone.

I usually don’t go in for pechuga mezcal, as I think the more you add to the distillation the more it distracts from the raw “cleanness” of the agave. In this case, I think it adds a bit of a velvety mouthfeel that can be right for certain situations. I would recommend it when you’re in the mood. 4/5

Great in cocktails or just neat.

It’s got this cool unique taste!

Picked up this bottle for just under $90 in a BevMo in California. This was my first time trying this espadin, so I kind of went out on a limb with it – especially given how espadin taste/quality can have such a wide range. This espadin turned out to be on the mild side with a less pungent initial impression than most, followed by a slightly oily/viscous texture and earthy notes.

I picked this up from Total Wine for about $120 pre-shipping. You practically have to take out a loan, but it’s one of the better espadins I’ve tasted. Recommend.

One of my favorite bars makes all of their mezcal cocktails with Del Maguey Vida, and for good reason. You get a fair amount of smoke, but it’s on the more affordable side, and overall pretty decent.

This one’s meant to be a mixer. As a sipper, I wouldn’t really recommed it. It’s a little harsh on the nose and very smoky. If you’re starting off your mezcal journey, this is an ok starting point. In cocktails, it does shine though!

You can’t go wrong with Del Maguey, especially when you drop a little extra cash on a tobala!