El Camino Del Pensador | Especial Tobala Mezcal

• Style: Mezcal
• Origin: Oaxaca
• ABV: 46.68%
• Bottle Size: 500ml

Especial forms a limited series showcasing spirits produced from rare and wild agaves. Sourced from batches too small to be considered for mezcal certification, these spirits represent traditional subsistence mezcalero culture. Each batch is unique and un-repeatable.

VX3 is a pure Tobalá from Victor Ramos in Mengolí, Miahuatlán. Tobalá 

Tobalá is a small but mighty varietal of the Potatorum species of Agave. While an Espadín can reach up to 2m high, with the Pina weighing anywhere between 50 and 100kg, Tobalá rarely extends beyond 50cm, and comes in closer to 15kg. But the little guy packs a punch. With a high sugar content and well-rounded flavour notes, Tobalá is a favourite amongst Mezcaleros and punters alike. Combined with Victor's ability to draw big distinctive profiles, we've got a mezcal which hits all the right notes. Both a crowd-pleaser and a show-stopper.

The aroma kicks off with vanilla, charred oak, and raisin – like a smoky Sauternes. Behind this, there are rich, mineral aromas, somewhere between a leather workshop and a pottery studio. It’s warm and captivating, and invites a sip.

The palate is sweet and fruity, with lashings of strawberry jam, dark chocolate and nutmeg, followed by the earthy, spicy and smoky character of dried ancho chilli. Clay and flinty minerals add depth, while a rich and chewy peat-like smoke rounds things off. It’s a luxurious and palate filling profile. The perfect night-cap or post dinner sipper.