Cuero Viejo Mezcal Artesanal

Crafted in Durango, Mexico, Cuero Viejo is a distinguished small-batch artisanal mezcal that celebrates the rich heritage and unique terroir of Northern Mexico. Produced using wild-harvested Cenizo agave (Agave durangensis) that matures for 10 to 14 years on volcanic mountain slopes, the mature piñas are slow-roasted in traditional underground volcanic stone pit ovens using oak and mesquite wood. Hand-shredded or crushed using traditional mechanical mills, the agave hearts are open-fermented in oak and pine wood tubs using natural wild airborne yeasts. Double-distilled in traditional copper pot stills, this unaged expression delivers a robust, complex profile characterized by deep mineral earthiness, subtle pine sweetness, dark cocoa undertones, and well-integrated mesquite smoke.

Food Pairing: Slow-roasted pork carnitas, smoked beef brisket, grilled lamb chops, aged Manchego cheese, dark chocolate with sea salt, or grilled octopus with paprika.

Tasting Notes: Crystal clear in appearance with brilliant clarity, a silky medium-to-full body, and slow-dripping, viscous tears.

Nose: Rich, complex, and earthy, opening with sweet cooked agave, warm mesquite smoke, and damp pine forest earth, backed by dark chocolate, white pepper, light citrus zest, and subtle leather notes.

Palate: Full-bodied, velvety, and complex on the palate, featuring caramelized agave nectar, roasted cocoa, and subtle dried fruit upfront before unfolding into layers of soft wood smoke, cracked black pepper, pine resin, and mineral-rich volcanic soil.

Finish: Long, warm, and lingering with notes of sweet agave, gentle mesquite smoke, herbal spice, and a velvety mineral earthiness.

Serve: Enjoy neat at room temperature in a traditional clay copita or Glencairn glass to experience the complete aromatic complexity and Northern Mexican terroir of wild Cenizo agave.