Review: Mezcal Vago Esemble en Barro - 2020, Mexicanito (Chicago Exclusive)
2019 Mezcal Vago Ensemble en Barro - Mexicanito - 47.8%
2020 Mezcal Vago Ensemble en Barro - 35% Mexican, 33% Espadin, 24% Coyote, 8% Arroqueno - 48.7%
From Mas Mezcal: Tio Rey has built a reputation with his clay pot stills alongside the cultivation of diverse agave - both of which are integral to the identity of these Ensembles. The roasted agave is hand ground for 12 hours straight and fermented in wooden vats - one of which has been in use 90 years. Cuts are made by smell and taste. Given these production methods, it's no wonder that Tio Rey's mezcals show boldly in the glass.
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Notes: 2019 - Floral and fresh. Not at all what I was expecting given other Tio Rey's I've tried. Palate washes out a little and drinks over its proof. Floral and slightly bittered. Structure is uneven - big peaks and valleys. A light touch with the clay and smoke adds some pleasant layers.
2020 - More intense - clay and smoked cheddar jump out the glass. Full and rich on the palate with BBQ char and smoked cheeses. Grilled peppers. Spicy chocolate. Ethanol is well integrated. Soft and full on the palate. Carries its proof well.
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Score
2015: 6 (Solid) Uneven, but complex and interesting.
2020: 7 (Highly Recommend) Bold profile. Notes are very well integrated. Satisfying purchase.
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Rating System
10 - Reevaluate The Budget
9 - Stash Two (If Able)
8 - Stash One (At The Right Price)
7 - Highly Recommend It To Strangers
6 - Solid - Above Average
5 - Acceptable For The Situation
4 - Not Vocally Complaining
3 - Anything Else To Drink?
2 - Nothing Nice To Say
1 - Drain Pour