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Tuesday, October 20, 2020

Xicaru Mezcal





History
Xicaru, the Zapotec word for beautiful, reflects Fernando Santibañez’s desire to share a traditionally produced mezcal that is approachable and distinct. Using his grandmother’s recipe, Fernando makes small batches of Xicaru Mezcal with time-honored methods at a palenque in Matatlán, Oaxaca.

Xicaru Mezcal Silver Espadin...$31.99
Compare to $34.99 at Total Wine and More
This mezcal showcases the 100% Agave espadin from which it’s made. Its natural smoky flavor is derived by cooking the agave in a conical stone oven on mesquite and ocote, woods native to Oaxaca.
ORIGIN: Oaxaca, Mexico
WOOD: Mesquite & ocote
STILL: Copper alembic
PALENQUE: Matatlán
MASH: Tahona method
DISTILLATION: Double
AGAVE: 100% espadin
PROOF: 81

Tasting Notes
The pure appearance and substantial body result from age old methods used in the production process. The finished aroma is natural and robust; a combination of agave, mesquite and ocote. Earthy characteristics on the front palate give way to citrus and rich vegetal agave notes that finish distinctively clean. A tinge of smoke complements these qualities without overwhelming the delicate balance found in Xicaru.



Xicaru Mezcal Silver Espadin 102 proof...$37.99

Inspiration
With Xicaru Silver 102° we honor the tradition of master mezcaleros, who prize the concentrated characteristics of high-proof mezcals. Selecting a smaller cut from the heart of the distillate gives Xicaru Silver 102° a bolder, more robust flavor.
Xicaru Silver 102° differs from Xicaru Silver in the way it is distilled. A narrower cut is taken from the heart, where the alcohol, smoke and maguey are more concentrated. Xicaru Silver and Xicaru Silver 102° both utilize traditional mezcal production methods passed down from generation to generation.

Tasting Notes
The crisp, high proof of Xicaru Silver 102° asserts itself in all aspects, dominating on the nose and palate before gradually softening to the rich, smoky and vegetal notes of traditionally-produced, artisanal mezcal. The finish is warm and lasting.



Fernando Santibañez saw the opportunity to create a mezcal with a nuanced and balanced profile while retaining the distinct identity of traditional mezcal. Xicaru Reposado is aged naturally and gently in small batches, reflecting Fernando’s great respect for both the agave and tradition.
Xicaru Mezcal Reposado Espadin...$34.99
Compare to $39.99 at Total Wine and More

As with Xicaru Silver, Xicaru Reposado is made with 100% Agave espadin cooked in a conical stone oven with mesquite and ocote woods. After tahona-mashing, natural fermenting and double-distilling, the mezcal is ready for aging. For two to four months, Xicaru Reposado is allowed to rest in medium-toasted American oak barrels.
ORIGIN: Oaxaca, Mexico
MASH: Tahona method
BARREL: Used American oak
BARREL TOAST: Medium
AGAVE: 100% espadin
PROOF: 80
Tasting Notes
Barrel aging naturally imparts both the straw color and subtle sweet notes that complement the unique characteristics of a traditional mezcal. The herbal, smoky taste of the cooked agave is softened on the palate by the delicate tinge of vanilla and caramel. This beautifully rounded flavor finishes smoothly and cleanly.



Xicaru Mezcal Anejo Espadin...$44.99
Inspiration
Fernando Santibañez had a passion for mezcal and its limitless possibilities. Using his years of experience and his love for mezcal, Fernando respectfully combined the traditions of mezcal with those of barrel aging to create a unique expression in Xicaru Añejo.
Xicaru Añejo is made with traditional methods from 100% Maguey espadin. It rests for a minimum of one year in medium-toasted, used American oak barrels and is finished to 86 proof. Used barrels are employed to prevent over-aging, and the higher proof helps to maintain the essential characteristics of mezcal.
Tasting Notes
The patience required for barrel aging is rewarded with a fuller, more concentrated and complex mezcal. Notes of vanilla and oak contribute a new aroma, flavor and sweetness that delicately balance with the smoke and maguey.

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