Bozal Mezcal Castilla Reserva is a luxurious expression of Mexican heritage, crafted in the Ancestral tradition with meticulous artisanal methods. Sourced from wild Castilla agave in Oaxaca, this mezcal is distilled in clay pots to preserve its deeply rooted flavors and character. Its aroma is fruit-forward with earthy undertones, while the palate delights with a subtle sweetness, featuring notes of roasted agave, mocha, mint, and a touch of pepper. The 104-proof spirit finishes with a smooth hint of smoke, embodying the wild refinement that Bozal Mezcal stands for. Perfect for sipping or crafting sophisticated cocktails, this rare mezcal offers an authentic taste of Oaxaca's rich terroir and traditions.
Process & Profile
Bozal Mezcal Castilla Reserva is a testament to artisanal mezcal craftsmanship, originating from Oaxaca and Guerrero, Mexico. The mezcal is made using *maguey Castilla* (Agave Angustifolia), a wild agave species known for its complex flavor profile. The production process embraces centuries-old techniques:
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Harvesting: Agave hearts, or piñas, are hand-harvested, ensuring only ripe plants are used.
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Cooking: The hearts are roasted in traditional earthen pit ovens, imparting the signature smoky flavor.
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Crushing: A horse-drawn *tahona* stone wheel mashes the agave to extract its juices.
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Fermentation: Open-air fermentation in clay pots allows natural yeasts to develop the mezcal's distinct flavors.
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Distillation: Bozal adheres to ancestral methods, using clay pot distillation for small-batch, unadulterated mezcal.
Tasting Notes
Bozal Mezcal Castilla Reserva is an exceptional blend of aromas and flavors:
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Aroma: Bright notes of wet earth, roasted agave, and tropical fruit.
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Palate: A smooth combination of roasted agave, mocha, and fresh mint, with herbal and peppery undertones.
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Finish: A lingering, semi-sweet smokiness that is earthy and lightly spiced, offering a refined, luxurious experience.
What Makes It Special
Bozal Mezcal Castilla Reserva stands out for its commitment to tradition and sustainable practices:
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Artisanal Production: Crafted in small batches using ancient methods, each bottle reflects the heritage of mezcaleros.
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Rare Ingredients: Made with wild maguey Castilla, this mezcal delivers a unique and complex flavor profile.
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Sustainability: For every agave harvested, two are replanted, ensuring environmental balance and preserving local ecosystems.
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Ancestral Techniques: The use of clay pot distillation captures rich, earthy flavors that honor mezcal's oldest traditions.
How to Enjoy
Savor the richness and complexity of Bozal Mezcal Castilla Reserva with these tips:
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Sip Neat: Enjoy it at room temperature in a traditional *copita* or jicara to fully appreciate its aromas and flavors.
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Pairings: Complement its earthy and smoky notes with rich cheeses, grilled meats, or dark chocolate. For a lighter pairing, try citrus fruits like orange slices sprinkled with *sal de gusano* (worm salt).
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Cocktails: While best enjoyed neat, it can also elevate classic cocktails like a Mezcal Old Fashioned or Margarita for a smoky twist.
Bozal Mezcal Castilla Reserva is not just a spirit; it's a journey through the wild landscapes and rich traditions of Mexico. Whether you’re new to mezcal or a seasoned aficionado, this premium offering promises a memorable experience in every sip.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of agave is used in BOZAL Mezcal Castilla Reserva?
This mezcal is crafted from Castilla agave, a member of the American Oaxacensis agave family. It is a smaller, wild-growing cousin of the Espadín agave, heavily influenced by its terroir and sourced from the Oaxaca valley near a river, which contributes to its fruit-forward flavor profile.
What is the production process for this mezcal?
BOZAL Mezcal Castilla Reserva follows the "Ancestral" tradition. The agave hearts are cooked in earthen pit ovens, mashed with a tahona stone wheel, and fermented using wild yeasts in clay pots without artificial additives. Distillation is done in clay pots with firewood, preserving the traditional, artisanal methods of mezcal production.
How would you describe the taste and flavor profile?
The flavor profile is described as fruit-forward and earthy, with a balance of roasted agave, mocha, fresh mint, and black pepper. The mezcal finishes smoothly with subtle hints of smoke, offering both sweetness and complexity.
What type of mezcal is BOZAL Mezcal Castilla Reserva categorized as?
This is a "Joven" mezcal, meaning it is bottled right after distillation without aging in oak barrels. This preserves the fresh and vibrant characteristics of the agave.
What makes BOZAL Mezcal Castilla Reserva unique compared to other mezcals?
This mezcal stands out for its use of the rare Castilla agave, its adherence to the ancestral clay-pot distillation method, and its deeply expressive terroir. Its complex flavor notes of fruit, mint, roasted agave, and subtle smokiness are perfectly balanced, making it a luxurious and refined choice for mezcal enthusiasts.
How should BOZAL Mezcal Castilla Reserva be enjoyed?
This mezcal can be savored neat to fully appreciate its complex flavors or used as a bold base in mezcal-forward cocktails. Its smooth finish and slight smokiness also pair well with hearty dishes or as a sipping spirit for special occasions.
Is it sustainable to produce BOZAL Mezcal Castilla Reserva?
BOZAL is committed to sustainability. For every agave harvested for mezcal production, two agave plants are planted in their wild nursery and later returned to the wild after one to two years, ensuring a positive environmental impact.
