Mal Bien Papalote Antonio & Lorenzo Sonido Mezcal

Born in Guerrero’s highlands, this Papalote sings. Curated by Mal Bien and crafted by Antonio y Lorenzo Sonido in Pantitlán, it delivers verdant agave character, crackling minerality, and elegant smoke. Expect a lifted, green profile that feels vivid yet composed. Bottled at 48.3% ABV, it balances brightness with structure for contemplative sipping or precise, mezcal-forward cocktails. Mineral notes recall wet stone and rain-kissed clay, while gentle smoke frames citrus, herbs, and a whisper of cocoa. It’s focused, soulful, and utterly drinkable.

Nose:
Green and mineral from the first swirl. Aromas of lemongrass, lime zest, crushed river stone, and faint cocoa rise over gentle campfire smoke. As it opens, savory hints of grilled green onion and epazote mingle with sweet aloe and damp clay, suggesting Guerrero’s rugged hillsides after rain. Bright, clean, and very inviting.

Palate:
Zesty citrus snaps, then settles. Herbal tones of mint, hoja santa, and cilantro ride alongside roasted agave sweetness, with slatey minerality and a measured, transparent smoke. Hints of white pepper, green mango, and cacao nib add texture without heaviness. Supple, focused, and beautifully balanced.

Finish:
Long, clean, and savory-sweet linger. Mineral and citrus echo with a whisper of smoke, while subtle cocoa and wild herb tones fade slowly across the palate. A touch of saline and pepper keeps everything vivid. Graceful to the last sip.

Citrus-marinated white fish ceviche with jalapeño and avocado; the acidity matches the minerality, while green heat mirrors papalote’s herbal snap.

Grilled carne asada with charred spring onions; light smoke and peppery edges echo the grill, and stony freshness cuts the steak’s richness.

Queso fundido with mushrooms and epazote; earthy savor resonates with damp-clay notes, and creamy fat is lifted by the spirit’s citrus.

Dark chocolate with sea salt and orange zest; cocoa and citrus harmonize with the finish, while salt sparks the mineral backbone.