Sustainable Mezcal
As the agaves used in mezcal production are slow to mature and sensitive to environmental changes, the need for sustainable practices is keenly felt in Mexico. Thankfully for us all, there are number of brands working tirelessly to promote greener agriculture and distilling and safeguard mezcal for future generations. These are some of the best.
Mezcal Amores
Espadin
$56.60
($80.86 per litre)
Founded in 2011, this new-wave mezcal brand promotes a ‘seed to sip’ philosophy, working closely with small producers across Mexico and planting 10 agaves for each one that it harvests. Amores also allocates 20% of net profits from its sales to programmes promoting social and environmental causes.
This flagship expression, made with the espadin agave, is an excellent introduction to mezcal – lightly smoky with notes of mesquite, burnt orange and wildflowers.
Lost Explorer
Tobalá
$111.61
($159.44 per litre)
In addition to its impressive green initiatives – which include working with NGO Isla Urbana to promote water sustainability – Lost Explorer is also committed to supporting female empowerment in underserved indigenous communities. A cause well-worth toasting to.
The tobalá agaves used to make this varietal mezcal take at least 10 years to reach maturity. The wait is long and yields are low, but tobalá rewards the producers' patience with mezcal that tastes of dried pineapple, dark chocolate and bananas cooked in rum.
Montelobos
Ensamble
$74.67
($106.67 per litre)
Dr Iván Saldaña, co-founder and master distiller at Montelobos, is a leading voice in sustainable mezcal. His approach to production respects traditional techniques while incorporating responsible cultivation and reducing environmental impact.
The three agave varieties used to make this bright, citrusy mezcal are roasted in traditional underground ovens. In a further move to promote sustainability, the process is fuelled by recycled and scrap wood to reduce deforestation.