Rey Campero Jabali (2017) - 49.2%
I first tasted Rey Campero Jabali at Osito's Tap in Little Village on the bartender's recommendation. It absolutely landed for the whole table. Moreno's didn't have any bottles for sale at that time. But I was happy to find that tracking one down wasn't a nightmare. Aware that full bottle experiences don't always live up to having the right pour at the right time, I was happy to find that wasn't the case here. I've also sampled some of the other harvests/bottlings and enjoyed each of them immensely.
From Mezcal Reviews: Part of what makes the Jabali [agave] so seldom used in Mezcal is its history of expanding and foaming during the fermentation and distillation process [potentially damaging the still], which makes this a very high risk, high reward Mezcal.
Notes: Super savory on the nose - uniquely so - cumin, mustard seed, paprika. The palate is deeply layered with sweet and savory notes: sweet chili spice, fresh peppers, black pepper, mint, tropical fruits. The smoke is very light, enhancing all the other flavors rather than dominating. The structure is masterful - fantastic weight and viscosity (without becoming sluggish or muddled). Carries the ABV perfectly and provides wonderful length on the palate.
Score: 9 (Stash Two) I've got a 2015 and a 2017 on back. Now that this one is gone. I'm also going to grab a current batch to toss in the rotation.
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