Mezcal Viejo Coyote Tepestate, An In-depth Review by Shay Addams

Made from an agave that grows wild in the mountains of Oaxaca for up to 25 years, Viejo Coyote Tepestate is still an average mezcal in flavor and body.

The bottler does not state if this mezcal is made in the traditional, artisanal way, or is industrially produced. Lack of a handwritten label noting the batch and bottle number and signature of the mezcalero would indicate that it is not artisanal, but “cooked” with machines rather than in a pit, and produced in huge vats.

It tastes like Peppermint Patty -- the candy, not the Peanuts cartoon character --  and appears to be a joven. No proof was listed on the label; it felt like under 75 proof, with no bite. It's more bland than smooth., and I did not get a lift from this mezcal as I do from the better brands.

Coyote does not appear to be exported, though several other bottlers have brands that include the name coyote. Mexican bars sell a shot for 65 pesos, about $3, which is expensive for such a watered down liquor. For another dollar, you can get an Amores and truly enjoy the experience. Even though the taste is more agreeable than cheaper mezcals like 400 Conejos and Gusano Rojo, I would prefer either of them over this pale imitation of Mexico’s finest liquor.

This outfit also makes a Tobala mezcal that is tastier and bolder, and something called Siete Misterios (Seven Mysteries), which I have not yet tasted.

Price: Not exported

Proof: Not listed on bottle

Rating: 1

More In-depth Mezcal Reviews by Shay Addams

Las Amores Reposado Mezcal, An In-dpeth Review by Shay Addams

Las Amores, one of my favorite brands of mezcal, means “loves” (the noun) in Spanish. Las Amores makes joven, añejo and reposada from espadin agave, and an unusual mezcal from the rare cupreata agave. Amores Espadin is made from nine-year-old espadin agave in Santiago Matatlán, Oaxaca.

Amores Reposada

Aged nine months in American oak barrels, the reposada tastes like a lush ripe pear or perhaps mango, though in both cases the flavor is understated. A hint of spearmint sends it to the roof of the mouth, like a good cognac.

Light smoke, crisp with no bite and smooth, it has a mild aftertaste. Eat an orange slice after drinking a shot or two, for a full and pleasurable sensation.

(Another reviewer describes the taste as “…like pencil shavings, smoked nut, dried tropical fruit, flan, and tobacco.” This guy is nuts! There is only one way to know the taste of pencil shavings, and I refuse to take advice on anything from someone who eats pencil shavings.)

One of my top five favorite mezcals, Amores reposada is too good to waste in a mixed drink. It makes an excellent aperitif. Or two. Also look for their Amores Cupreata, made from a rare agave.

Price: $65

Proof: 74

Rating: 8

                                     

 More In-depth Mezcal Reviews by Shay Addams