When it comes to artisanal mezcal, Illegal Mezcal is now among the most sought-after spirits. With its newest release, a Caribbean cask finish that combines the essence of Mexico with tropical influences, Ilegal Mezcal continues its reputation for traditional production processes while pushing the boundaries of flavor. Here, we take a closer look at Ilegal Mezcal and its Caribbean cask finish, highlighting its one-of-a-kind production, flavor profile, and lasting impact on the Mezcal community.
The Decades-Of-Traditional Mezcal Making
Why Is Mezcal Different From Other Spirits?
The agave plant’s heart is used to make mezcal, an old alcohol with strong cultural roots in Mexico. Mezcal, in contrast to its close relative tequila, may be produced using more than 30 different varieties of agave. Origin, environment, and processing techniques all contribute to the distinctive flavor profile of each agave type.
When it comes to mezcal, Ilegal Mezcal is now the gold standard. While experimenting with new finishes like the Caribbean cask, the traditional artisanal method guarantees that the genuine smoky flavors remain intact.
Caribbean Cask Finish: A One-of-a-Kind Partnership
A Harmony of Tastes
Ilegal Mezcal’s innovative Caribbean barrel finish gives the normally smokey spirit hints of tropical fruit. A velvety smooth profile with layered depth is achieved by ageing the mezcal in barrels that had previously housed rum. The spirit acquires the rich molasses and sugarcane notes of the Caribbean. This symphony of tastes features smokey, earthy mezcal and sweet rum, making it perfect for both mezcal connoisseurs and novices.
Distinct Features of Illegal Mezcal Aged in Caribbean Casks:
Finish: The mezcal is aged in rum barrels, which makes it smoother by reducing the mezcal’s harsher edges.
The smokiness of the mezcal is complemented with tropical undertones, such as banana, vanilla, and caramel.
Smokiness is well-balanced; it’s still there, but the rum cask finish subtly enhances it, making it more approachable.
Clean or Rock-Shaking
Ilegal Mezcal’s intricate Caribbean cask finish is best enjoyed neat, according to connoisseurs. As it sits in the glass, the mezcal’s warmth releases its flavors, which develop with each sip.
Alternately, the tropical flavors will be amplified when served over crushed ice, which will reduce the mezcal’s strength. The smokiness is muted by the ice, making for a balanced and delicious cocktail.
Viva la Mezcal!
When mixing up new and exciting drinks, this mezcal is a great pick. Classic mezcal cocktails, such as the mezcal old fashioned or mezcal margarita, benefit from its smokey sweetness.
For a smokier take on the classic Mezcal Old Fashioned, try mixing Ilegal Mezcal with bitters, agave syrup, a Caribbean cask finish, and a twist of orange peel.
A tropical twist on the traditional margarita, the Mezcal Margarita is made by combining Ilegal Mezcal with triple sec, lime juice, and a dash of pineapple juice.
Final Thoughts: A Fresh Era for Mezcal
A daring new era in mezcal history has begun with Ilegal Mezcal’s Caribbean cask finish. This mezcal provides an elegant and one-of-a-kind drinking experience by fusing traditional Mexican craftsmanship with the tropical touch of Caribbean rum casks. The Caribbean cask finish opens up a whole new world of flavor to mezcal lovers and novices alike.
