Del Maguey Vida Mezcal

Del Maguey Vida Mezcal: A Smoky Symphony for the Senses 

Vida Mezcal, crafted by the renowned Del Maguey brand, is a single village mezcal that offers an approachable yet captivating introduction to the world of agave spirits. Here at The General Wine, we're delighted to delve into the intricate details of this exceptional mezcal, exploring its unique flavour profile and suggesting perfect serving methods to elevate your tasting experience.

Del Maguey: A Legacy of Artisanal Excellence

Del Maguey is synonymous with exceptional quality in the realm of mezcal. Founded by Ron Cooper in the 1990s, the brand champions traditional production methods and single-village sourcing. This dedication to authenticity ensures that each Del Maguey mezcal, like Vida, reflects the distinct terroir and heritage of its origin.

Vida Mezcal: Unveiling the Essence

Vida Mezcal hails from San Luis del Rio, a village nestled in the heart of Oaxaca, Mexico. Here, 100% organic Espadín agave – the most commonly used agave variety in mezcal production – is meticulously hand-selected for optimal ripeness.

The agave hearts are then roasted in underground pit ovens fuelled by wood and volcanic rock. This traditional roasting process imbues the spirit with its signature smokiness, a hallmark characteristic of mezcal. Following roasting, the agave is crushed with a stone tahona wheel, a technique that preserves the delicate flavours of the plant.

The resulting mash then undergoes a double distillation in small copper pot stills. This meticulous process allows for a more nuanced and flavourful spirit to emerge.

A Journey Through the Senses: Vida Mezcal Tasting Notes

Vida Mezcal presents a captivating interplay of aromas and flavours. On the nose, a gentle sweetness unfolds, reminiscent of honey and vanilla. Hints of citrus and tropical fruits peek through, adding a touch of vibrancy. The alluring smokiness, a signature of mezcal, weaves seamlessly throughout the aromatic profile, creating a sense of intrigue.

As the mezcal reaches the palate, the smokiness takes centre stage, yet it remains inviting and well-integrated. Earthy notes emerge alongside hints of ginger and cinnamon, adding complexity to the flavour profile. The roasted agave character shines through, balanced by subtle hints of banana and tangerine. The finish is smooth and lingering, leaving a pleasant warmth on the palate.

The Art of Serving Vida Mezcal

Vida Mezcal's versatility makes it a perfect spirit to enjoy neat, on the rocks, or as a base for innovative cocktails. Here are some suggestions to maximise your enjoyment:

• Neat: Pour a chilled shot of Vida Mezcal into a traditional mezcal copita (glass) and savour it sip by sip. This allows you to appreciate the full spectrum of aromas and flavours.
• On the Rocks: Fill a rocks glass with large ice cubes and pour Vida Mezcal over them. The ice will slowly melt, diluting the spirit slightly and revealing a touch of sweetness.
• Vida Paloma: In a highball glass filled with ice, combine 2 oz Vida Mezcal, 3 oz grapefruit soda, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice. Garnish with a lime wedge for a refreshing and citrusy twist.
• Oaxacan Old Fashioned: Combine 2 oz Vida Mezcal, 0.5 oz agave nectar, 2 dashes of Angostura bitters, and a bar spoon of orange zest muddled in a rocks glass. Fill with ice, stir gently, and express an orange peel over the glass for an aromatic and complex cocktail.

The General Wine: Your Gateway to Exceptional Mezcals

At The General Wine, we are passionate about curating a diverse selection of premium mezcals, including Vida Mezcal. We believe that mezcal offers a world of flavour exploration, waiting to be discovered.

Visit our website or explore our store to find Vida Mezcal and embark on your own smoky mezcal adventure. Our knowledgeable staff is always happy to guide you through our selection and recommend the perfect mezcal to suit your taste preferences.