Mezcal "Tobalá"

750ml/46% ABV

Overview

Catedral Mezcal "Tobalá" is a rare and exceptional mezcal crafted from the wild Tobalá agave, known for its complex and nuanced flavor profile. This mezcal hails from the Oaxaca region of Mexico, where the Tobalá agave thrives in the wild, taking much longer to mature than the more commonly cultivated agave varieties. Catedral Mezcal "Tobalá" offers a rich, aromatic experience, reflecting the artisan techniques used in its production and the unique terroir of the region.

Production Process

• Harvesting: The Tobalá agave is harvested after maturing for 12 to 15 years, resulting in a rich and concentrated flavor profile.
• Roasting: The agave hearts are roasted in traditional underground pits, which imparts a distinctive smoky character to the mezcal.
• Milling: The roasted agave is crushed by a stone tahona (a large wheel), extracting the sweet juices necessary for fermentation.
• Fermentation: Natural fermentation occurs in wooden vats, where wild yeasts contribute to the complexity of the flavors.
• Distillation: The fermented agave is distilled twice in copper pot stills, preserving the deep, earthy flavors of the Tobalá agave while refining the mezcal's smoothness.

Tasting Notes

Appearance: Crystal-clear, with a slight brilliance that hints at its purity and artisanal production.
Aroma: The nose is intense and aromatic, offering smoky, earthy notes of roasted agave, complemented by sweet, floral undertones, tropical fruits like papaya and pineapple, and a subtle hint of vanilla.
Palate: On the palate, Catedral Mezcal "Tobalá" is rich and complex, with layers of deep agave flavors, soft smokiness, and a slight sweetness. A nuanced blend of citrus zest, tropical fruit, and a touch of earthy minerality gives the mezcal a unique and captivating mouthfeel.
Finish: The finish is long, warming, and clean, with a lingering smokiness and a delicate sweetness that balances the spice and depth of flavor.

Food Pairing

Catedral Mezcal "Tobalá" pairs beautifully with rich foods such as roasted meats, grilled vegetables, or mole dishes. It also complements seafood, especially grilled fish or ceviche, and can be enjoyed with flavorful cheeses, charcuterie, or earthy tapas. For a more indulgent pairing, it also works well with dark chocolate or a smoky barbecue.

Serving Recommendations

• Serving Temperature: Best served at room temperature to fully express its aromas and complexity.
• Glassware: A traditional clay cup or a tumbler is ideal for focusing the mezcal's aromas and enhancing the drinking experience.
• Enjoyment: Perfect for sipping, but it can also be used in cocktails where its distinctive smoky character can shine, such as a Mezcal Old Fashioned or a smoky Margarita.

Aging Potential

As an unaged mezcal, Catedral Mezcal "Tobalá" is at its best when fresh, showcasing the vibrant, complex flavors of the wild Tobalá agave. While it can be stored for several years, its freshness and balance are most prominent when consumed within 3-5 years.