Dos Hombres Mezcal Artesanal is a masterful creation by Aaron Paul and Bryan Cranston, crafted in the heart of Oaxaca, Mexico. Made with 100% Espadín agave, hand-selected from the lush hillsides of San Luis del Rio, this artisanal joven mezcal embodies generations of traditional expertise. Its production features slow-roasted agave in earthen pit ovens, meticulous stone milling, natural fermentation with mountain spring water, and copper still distillation overseen by Maestro Mezcalero Gregorio Velasco Luis. The result is a perfectly balanced spirit with notes of smoky agave, fresh apples, mango, citrus, and a hint of earthiness, finishing with smooth elegance. Ideal as a sipper or in cocktails, Dos Hombres offers a sophisticated taste of authentic mezcal heritage.
Process & Profile
The production of Dos Hombres Mezcal Artesanal is rooted in traditional methods passed down through generations:
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Harvesting: Carefully cultivated Espadin agave plants are grown for six years to reach maturity before being harvested.
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Cooking: The agave piñas are roasted in underground pits with volcanic stones and firewood, imparting a signature smoky depth.
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Milling: Donkey-pulled stone wheels crush the cooked agave, creating a mash.
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Fermentation: The mash is fermented naturally with mountain spring water in wooden vats for 7–10 days.
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Distillation: The resulting liquid is distilled twice in copper stills to achieve a smooth, artisanal mezcal with a rich flavor profile.
Tasting Notes
Experience a layered, sensory journey with every sip of Dos Hombres Mezcal:
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Nose: Bright aromas of fresh apples, mangoes, and citrus blossoms, complemented by a subtle smokiness and floral potpourri.
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Palate: A silky texture with flavors of juicy green apples, sweetened tea, and orange peel, balanced by a delicate smoky undertone and earthy agave sweetness.
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Finish: Long and balanced, with hints of mild smoke, sweet fruits, and a touch of cane sugar, leaving a clean, smooth aftertaste.
What Makes It Special
Dos Hombres stands out not only for its craftsmanship but also for its dedication to authenticity:
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Maestro Mezcalero Expertise: Crafted by Gregorio Velasco Luis, a third-generation master distiller who brings decades of expertise to every batch.
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Traditional Methods: From pit ovens to copper stills, the mezcal is a testament to the artisanal process, infused with the terroir of Oaxaca.
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Celebrity Connection with Purpose: Unlike many celebrity spirits, this project is praised for its authenticity and the founders' genuine passion for mezcal.
How to Enjoy
The versatility of Dos Hombres Mezcal makes it ideal for a variety of settings:
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Sipping: Enjoy it neat to fully appreciate its depth, smoky character, and fruity nuances.
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Cocktails: Elevate classics with a smoky twist, such as a Mezcal Margarita or the signature "Dos Fashioned."
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Pairing: Pair with grilled meats, smoky salsas, or dark chocolate for an indulgent experience.
Dos Hombres Mezcal Artesanal is not just a spirit—it's an invitation to savor the rich traditions of Oaxaca, blended with a modern flair. Whether enjoyed on a quiet evening or shared among friends, it delivers a distinctive and memorable mezcal experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Dos Hombres Mezcal made from?
Dos Hombres Mezcal is crafted from Espadín agave, which is grown and harvested in the remote village of San Luis del Río, Oaxaca, Mexico. The agave plants are matured for at least six years before harvest to ensure optimal quality and flavor.
Who are the founders of Dos Hombres Mezcal?
Dos Hombres was founded by actors Bryan Cranston and Aaron Paul, renowned for their roles in *Breaking Bad*. The brand was created out of their shared passion for mezcal and commitment to producing an authentic, high-quality spirit.
How is Dos Hombres Mezcal made?
The production process is entirely traditional and artisanal. It involves cooking the agave piñas in underground earthen pits to caramelize the sugars, milling the roasted cores using a stone wheel, fermenting the mash in wooden vats with mountain spring water, and double distilling the liquid in copper stills to create a smooth, smoky mezcal.
What flavors and aromas can I expect from Dos Hombres Mezcal?
Dos Hombres Mezcal features a complex flavor profile with notes of apples, citrus, mango, smoke, and softwood derived from its traditional production methods and fermentation. It offers a balance of fruity sweetness and smoky undertones, making it enjoyable for sipping or cocktails.
Does Dos Hombres Mezcal support sustainable practices?
Yes, Dos Hombres is committed to sustainability. They use natural fertilizers, repurpose distillation water, plant two agave saplings for every Tobala agave harvested, and minimize electricity usage by incorporating solar panels.
What makes Dos Hombres Mezcal unique compared to other mezcals?
Dos Hombres stands out for its traditional crafting methods, small-batch production, and the artistic expertise of Maestro Mezcalero Gregorio Velasco. Additionally, its unique flavor profile, derived from hand-selected agave and distinct village terroir, sets it apart from mass-produced alternatives.
What types of Dos Hombres Mezcal are available?
The brand offers two main varieties: Dos Hombres Espadín, made from Espadín agave with 42% ABV, and Dos Hombres Tobalá, made from wild Tobalá agave matured for nearly 25 years, with 45% ABV. Both are produced using artisanal methods in San Luis del Río, Oaxaca.
How should Dos Hombres Mezcal be enjoyed?
Dos Hombres Mezcal can be enjoyed neat to fully appreciate its smoky and fruity nuances. It is also an excellent base for cocktails, adding depth and character to recipes like margaritas and mezcalitas. Some users recommend pairing it with citrus or light snacks to complement its flavors.
What distinguishes mezcal from tequila?
While tequila is a type of mezcal, it is made specifically from Blue Weber agave and must follow strict regional and production regulations. Mezcal, on the other hand, can be made from various agave species and is traditionally cooked in earthen pits, giving it a signature smoky flavor.
Is Dos Hombres Mezcal a good choice for mezcal beginners?
Yes, Dos Hombres Mezcal is often praised for its smooth and approachable profile, making it a great starting point for those new to mezcal. Its balance of light smoke and fruity sweetness is well-suited for casual drinkers while still offering enough complexity for seasoned enthusiasts.