Madre Mezcal Review: Read Before You Buy (2023 Edition)
Last Updated on August 2, 2023 by Lydia Martin
Welcome to our “Madre mezcal in-depth review,” where we’ll dive into the world of this artisanal Mexican spirit.
Join me as I explore the rich heritage, unique flavors, and captivating craftsmanship that make this mezcal a truly exceptional choice for discerning spirits enthusiasts.
Madre Mezcal In-Depth Review
Madre mezcal is an artisanal mezcal produced from a blend of Espadin and Cuishe. The agaves are roasted within an earthen pit, fermented using local well water, and distilled with wild yeast in a revered copper still.
“Madre Mezcal: Ancient alchemy in a glass, revealing the heart of Mexico.” – Liquor Laboratory
Both the well-loved Madre Espadin and Madre Ensamble exude subtle smoke essence, sweet aroma, vegetal undertones (with sage, minerals, and earth notes), and a lingering floral finish.
Read: Mezcal & Agave Comparison
Quick Facts
| Details | Espandin | Madre Ensamble |
| NOM | NOMO191X | NOM-0191X |
| Distillery & Company | Madre Mezcal | Madre Mezcal |
| Classification & Region | Mezcal/Oaxaca | Mezcal/Oaxaca |
| Alcohol Proof | 40% ABV | 45% ABV |
| Mash Bill |
|
|
| Age Statement | NAS | NAS |
| Color | Clear | Clear |
| Rating | 3-Stars | 3-Stars |
| Average Price | $44.99 (MSRP) | $54.99 (MSRP) |
Extra Fact: Madre mezcal is crafted in small batches by different mezcaleros in various parts of Oaxaca. This includes Jose Garcia Morales in San Dionisio, the Vasquez family in Miahuatlan, and Carlos Blas in Matatlan.
Madre Mezcal Overview
Espandin
Madre Espadin is a beginner-friendly mezcal. I like its gentle and smooth nature with minimal smokey flavor. It gives a delicate and pleasant taste, highlighting hints of fruit and a subtle mineral essence.
This smooth and approachable drink is ideal for sipping straight or over ice. But its mild flavor with low ABV (40%) may lend itself poorly to crafting potent cocktails.
Read: Clase Azul Mezcal Review
Madre Ensamble
Madre Mezcal Ensamble reveals a harmonious fusion of sweet smoke hint and earthy herbal scents enhanced by delicate mineral undertones.
Its palate delights with an amazing medley of sage, minerals, and a lingering floral aftertaste. Given the 45% ABV, I like its smoothness. This is a must-try if you want greater depth in your mezcal.
I tried the Madre Ancestral first, actually, and I find it more complex than the Ensamble, though it’s a little better than the Espadin.
Read: Dos Hombres Mezcal Review
Madre Mezcal’s Tasting Profile
The flavor mirrored the aroma, showcasing vibrant and earthy citrus, soapstone, and sweet grass notes. This Ensamble had a pronounced smokiness attributed to the Espadin, which I thoroughly enjoyed.
The texture was noticeably lighter, concluding with a gentle smokiness and further vegetal and earthy nuances.
| Tasting Notes | Espandin | Madre Ensamble |
| Nose | Earthy aroma | Agave-forward with honey and vanilla notes |
| Palate | Bright hints of pine, ginger, and sandalwood | Sweet with roasted agave, pepper, and salt |
| Color | Clear | Clear |
| Finish | Soft and mild finish | Lingering warm finish |
Our Thoughts
First Sip
Madre mezcal’s aroma on the first sip reveals much campfire smoke reminiscent of sourdough and Pulque fermentation. It exudes vegetal characteristics yet lacks distinct specificity. But is Mezcal stronger than tequila?
Second Chance
On the second sip, I like the delightfully smoke-like sensation that immediately warms my body, specifically the Ensamble. The sweet flavor is reminiscent of apple pie and Cinnamon.
Why I Like It
- This brand is a classic blend of Mexico, especially the Espadin (that initially captivated my love for mezcal, albeit with a subtle touch of edginess).
- Every bottle of this mezcal is widely available.
- One of the versatile mezcal brands – good for sipping or mixing.
- This bottle is suitable for beginners wanting to explore mezcal.
Drawbacks
- It could be smoother with a few years of aging in a glass.
- Some would find the bright smokiness too much for a cocktail, particularly the Ensamble.
- The price point is slightly higher than other brands.
Espandin vs Madre Ensamble Drinking Guide
Cocktails
In cocktails, I prefer the bottle of the Ensamble, as it brings more flavor to the cocktail (especially with lemon). Espadin is mild and lower in ABV, which other cocktail ingredients can overpower.
Neat
Served neat on a glass, the tasting notes of Madre Espadin satisfy my palate. Espadin’s mildness and smoothness allow the agave [1] flavor to shine.
On The Rocks
Espadin or Ensamble delivers a good drinking experience if you like your drink on the rocks. Any bottle of Madre mezcal would be suitable for drinking over ice for its balanced overall profile.
Our Rating On Madre Mezcal
In this review, I give Madre Mezcal three (3) stars! It’s easy to find and recommended as a daily sipper or in a cocktail.
There’s nothing fancy or unique about this mezcal [2], but it delivers a good drinking experience for a reasonable price point.
Yay Or Nay?
Yay! Madre mezcal is a good bottle of mezcal to enjoy regardless of your style – neat, over ice, or in a cocktail. Its smokiness is balanced by sweet notes, making this drink a must-try.
For everything bad, mezcal, for everything that is good as well, and if it still does not help, one and a half liters.” – Jason R. Koivu, Author
If you want to fill your bar cart with good spirits, you won’t regret adding this mezcal. Its versatility, availability, and reasonable price offer good value.
But if you’re looking for other options or alternatives, I recommend these:
- Del Maguey Vida
- La Puritita Verda
- Primario
- Wahaka
FAQs
Is Madre Mezcal smoky?
Yes, Madre mezcal has a smoky character, but the level of smokiness can vary depending on your specific expression or variant, like Espadin, Ensamble, or Ancestral. But how is Mezcal made?
Is Madre mezcal good?
Yes, Madre Mezcal is a good quality spirit from Oaxaca, Mexico. However, the taste is subjective, and it depends on individual preferences.
Final Thoughts
Madre mezcal’s expressions provide diverse profiles, catering to both beginners and seasoned mezcal lovers.
While its smokiness and overall quality are subjective, I find Madre Mezcal a good drink for its versatility. Besides, it’s widely available for a reasonable price.
Like in every Madre mezcal review, this expression is worth exploring, especially if you’re seeking a flavorful and enjoyable mezcal experience.
References:
- https://www.britannica.com/plant/Agave
- https://www.10best.com/interests/drinks/10-interesting-facts-about-mezcal/
