Another varietal I had never heard of before. How many different kinds of wild agaves are there? According to proper websites, Arroqueno’s ‘the mother’ of the cultivated Espadin, and is a huge wild agave that takes more than twenty years to become an adult. It seems that it’s getting rarer these days, thanks to the success of artisan mezcals (who said tequila for hipsters, who?)
Colour: white.
Nose: really very gentle, this time, and rather floral, with some geranium (which I often find in mezcal) and wisteria. Agave syrup, stewed apricots… It’s really very mild.
Mouth: remains floral and fruity, with minimal earthiness and roots. Almost no brine, rather pink grapefruits, greengages, medlars, prickly pears, oranges…
Finish: medium, sweet, fruity, a tad syrupy. The smallest olive in the aftertaste. Picholines?
Comments: very easy, rather sweet, fruity… Excellent, just a tad too easy for me, as I tend to prefer earthier, smokier mezcals.
BOW (87)
Nucano Mezcal: A Tale of Tradition, Craftsmanship, and Oaxacan Spirit
In the heart of the San Dionisio Ocotepec region in Oaxaca, a region steeped in tradition and mezcal craftsmanship, Nucano Mezcal emerges as a testament to the artistry and heritage of this ancient spirit. Hailing from the state of Oaxaca, Mezcal Nucano is a 100% artisanal creation, a product of the dedicated men of the field who work the land in its purest and most traditional form.
The term "mezcal" itself finds its origins in Mexcalli Náhuatl, where "metl" represents maguey, and "ixcalli" translates to cooked, giving homage to the process of crafting this revered spirit. Mezcal Nucano proudly presents an authentic artisanal mezcal, a representation of the dedication to traditional methods and the authenticity of Oaxacan craftsmanship.
This unique and high-quality mezcal is more than just a beverage; it encapsulates culture and tradition in each bottle, aiming to connect its customers with the origins of this ancestral drink. By putting a little piece of Oaxaca into the hands of those who savor it, Mezcal Nucano becomes a tangible link to the rich cultural tapestry of the region.
Nucano, meaning "Great Fire," transcends being merely a name; it carries the legacy of a brave Mixtec warrior who played a crucial role in Oaxacan history. Nucano, deeply in love with the Zapotec Princess Donají, sought to bring peace to the two nations in the name of love. According to legend, their bodies rest beneath a flagstone in the Cuilapam de Guerrero church in Oaxaca.
Mezcal Nucano stands proudly as an emblem of Oaxaca, a region known for its mezcal-making heritage and deep-rooted traditions. Governed by Nucano, who ruled the Zapotecs with nobility and respect, the mezcal embodies the spirit of this noble warrior and the love that inspired his quest for peace.
Nucano Tobala, a specific expression of Mezcal Nucano, is crafted with 100% agave Tobala in San Dionisio Ocotepec. Tobala, often referred to as the king agave, is characterized by its smaller size and complex flavors. Nucano Mezcal takes pride in using Tobala agaves that take 12 years to reach maturity, ensuring a unique and high-quality drinking experience.
Produced by a 5th generation mezcalero, Mezcal Nucano is an artisanal masterpiece that marries old-world mezcal production with a modern touch. The limited batches ensure an artisanal touch to each bottle, featuring an array of expressions, including Anejo, Reposado, and several Joven mezcals that showcase different silvestre agave varieties.
Entirely Oaxacan owned and operated, Mezcal Nucano encapsulates the spirit of the region in every sip. It's not just a drink; it's a journey through time, tradition, and the soul-stirring legends that define Oaxacan mezcal. With every bottle, Mezcal Nucano invites enthusiasts to savor the flavors of the land, crafted with love, respect, and a deep reverence for the traditions that shape this timeless spirit.
