Paquera Barril Mezcal Artesanal

Crafted in Ejutla de Crespo, Oaxaca, Mexico, Paquera Barril is an artisanal single-varietal mezcal produced by master mezcalero Francisco Javier Perez Cruz. Made from 100% wild-harvested Barril agave (Agave karwinskii), which takes 12 to 15 years to mature as a tall, tree-like cylindrical plant, this expression showcases the intense minerality and herbal focus characteristic of the Karwinskii family. The wild piñas are slow-roasted in traditional underground conical stone pits fueled by local oak, crushed using a horse-drawn stone tahona wheel, and open-fermented in wooden vats using natural wild airborne yeasts. Double-distilled in traditional copper pot stills, this unaged mezcal offers a bright, highly structured profile defined by crisp green herbs, wet stone minerality, citrus oils, and balanced mesquite smoke.

Food Pairing: Grilled octopus with olive oil, Oaxacan mole verde, roasted pork carnitas, fresh goat cheese crostini, ceviche with lime, or dark chocolate with sea salt.

Tasting Notes: Crystal clear in appearance with brilliant clarity, a silky medium body, and crisp, delicate tears.

Nose: Bright, herbal, and mineral-forward, opening with sweet cooked agave, crushed green mint, and damp earth, accompanied by soft wood smoke, lime zest, white pepper, and fresh pine needle accents.

Palate: Vibrant, dry, and complex on the palate, featuring caramelized agave nectar, green melon, and crisp citrus upfront before unfolding into layers of mild mesquite smoke, cracked black pepper, fresh garden herbs, and chalky stone minerality.

Finish: Medium-long, clean, and refreshing with lingering notes of sweet agave, gentle oak smoke, zesty grapefruit pith, and a dry, earthy mineral warmth.

Serve: Enjoy neat at room temperature in a traditional clay copita or Glencairn glass to allow the crisp herbal and mineral nuance of wild Barril agave to fully open.