El Rey Zapoteco - Tepeztate - 48%
El Rey Zapoteco is an exceptional artisanal Mezcal, passionately crafted by the second generation of the Hernandez family in Matatlán, in the renowned region of Oaxaca, Mexico. This premium Mezcal symbolizes Mexican authenticity and ancestral know-how, resulting from a meticulous process ranging from the rigorous cultivation of maguey agave to careful bottling.
The traditional process begins with the manual cutting of the leaves and roots when the agave reaches full maturity, which can take from 8 to 30 years depending on the species. Only the heart, called the "piña" due to its resemblance to a pineapple, is kept. The piñas are then cut into pieces and slowly cooked for 4 to 7 days in a natural underground oven, fueled by wood and surrounded by stone, which gives the mezcal its unique smoky and earthy aromas.
After cooking, the agave pieces are crushed in a traditional stone mill, powered by a horse, to extract the precious juice. This pulp is placed in wooden vats where it naturally ferments thanks to indigenous yeasts, without any additives, thus guaranteeing the pure expression of the terroir. The fermented liquid, called "tepache", is then distilled twice in traditional copper stills, essential equipment to preserve quality and flavors. Sometimes, this mezcal is aged in selected oak barrels, intensifying its complex notes. Finally, it is passed again through the "guardianes" (copper stills) to purify and remove any residual water traces.
The Tepeztate is a rare wild agave variety whose maturation can sometimes take up to 25 years, giving it remarkable aromatic density and depth. This exceptional mezcal, produced by double distillation in a copper still with a coil, offers a unique tasting experience, combining finesse, power, and authenticity.
Discover this treasure from Mexico, available exclusively at Clos des Spiritueux, your expert in rare and authentic spirits, guaranteeing a rigorous selection for discerning enthusiasts.
