Discover the Rich Tradition Behind Don Julio's Fine Mezcal Expressions

The Rich History of Don Julio Mezcal

Mezcal has exploded in popularity in recent years as drinkers discover the complex flavors and rich history behind this iconic Mexican spirit. At the forefront of premium mezcal is Don Julio, one of the most well-respected producers known for their attention to tradition and quality.

What Makes Don Julio Mezcal Special

Don Julio was founded over 75 years ago in the state of Jalisco, Mexico. Their master distiller still uses a small-batch process to make mezcal in the same original distillery. This gives their mezcal a true handcrafted quality.

The agaves used in Don Julio mezcal are estate-grown rather than sourced from multiple small farms. This allows for more consistency and control over the production process from harvest to fermentation to distillation.

Traditional Production Methods

Don Julio uses traditional clay pot distillation methods rather than modern steel vats. The clay imparts an earthy, rustic quality to the spirit that aficionados appreciate. Each batch is distilled twice, ensuring smooth, refined flavors.

The piñas (heart of the agave plant) are roasted in underground stone pits before fermenting and distilling. This underground roasting technique brings out the sweet, smoky notes that make great mezcal memorable.

The Different Expressions of Don Julio Mezcal

Don Julio has several core mezcal expressions as well as limited editions that allow drinkers to explore new flavors.

Don Julio Mezcal Joven

The Joven expression is double distilled from 100% estate-grown Espadín agaves. It spends less than 2 months in American oak barrels, so it has a clear appearance along with herbaceous, fruity aromas and flavors.

Don Julio Reposado Mezcal

Aged for 8 months in American oak barrels, the Reposado picks up caramel, vanilla, and spice notes while still letting the agave flavor shine through. It has a gorgeous amber color.

Don Julio Añejo Mezcal

The Añejo ages in oak barrels for 18 months, developing deeper honeyed complexity. There are flavors of baked agave, toasted oak, and warm spices in this rich golden spirit.

Don Julio Limited Releases

Beyond the core line, Don Julio periodically issues special small-batch mezcals in different styles. These limited releases are highly prized by collectors.

Don Julio Primavera Mezcal

Distilled from Espadín and Salmiana agaves harvested in spring, the Primavera release has herbal aromas with sweet tropical fruit flavors. Only 60,000 hand-numbered bottles are produced each year.

Don Julio Cask Strength Mezcal

Offering the purest expression of their Espadín mezcal, Don Julio's cask strength bottling is not diluted before bottling. At around 57% ABV, it packs a flavorful punch with intense agave and a lingering finish.

How to Best Enjoy Don Julio Mezcal

Traditionally mezcal is served neat in a small clay copita glass. Swirl the glass to open up the aromas before sipping. The spirit can be served with slices of orange or lime to accentuate certain flavors.

Since mezcal mixes so well with other ingredients, Don Julio expressions also shine in a variety of classic and modern cocktails. From simple highballs to complex shaken drinks, Don Julio adds depth and character.

Popular Mezcal Cocktails

The smoky, herbaceous quality of mezcal makes for an exciting riff on classic cocktails that typically use more neutral spirits.

A mezcal Old Fashioned, for example, has those nostalgic bittersweet flavors with a hint of smoke. Replace gin with mezcal in a Negroni for a beautifully bitter, citrusy drink with richness. Even swapping tequila for mezcal in a Margarita adds robust flavors.

There are also modern cocktails being devised to truly highlight premium mezcal's potential. Balancing sweet and tart flavors allows the agave notes to sing.

Why Mezcal is Here to Stay

Many drinkers are just now discovering high-quality mezcal's incredible depth and diversity. As an artisanal handcrafted spirit with heritage, mezcal delivers on authenticity and flavor.

Thanks to producers like Don Julio who honor tradition while innovating, mezcal has carved out permanent space on cocktail menus and home bars around the world. There has never been a better time to taste and appreciate this complex agave spirit.

FAQs

What is the difference between mezcal and tequila?

While tequila is made only from blue agave plants, mezcal can be made from over 30 different agave species. The production process also differs, with mezcal using more traditional artisanal methods like underground pit roasting rather than autoclaves or steam ovens.

What should you look for when tasting a good mezcal?

High quality mezcal has vibrant herbal, fruit, and smoke notes in the aroma and flavor. It should taste smooth and balanced rather than harsh or sharp. Complex fruit, spice, earthy, or floral notes are a sign of an exemplary traditionally-made mezcal.

What is the best way to drink Don Julio mezcal?

Sipping Don Julio expressions neat or on the rocks is the best way to appreciate their nuanced flavors. But they also shine beautifully in a range of classic and modern cocktails, from mezcal Margaritas to smoky Negronis.

Are there any special edition Don Julio mezcals?

Yes, Don Julio periodically releases small batch limited edition mezcals. These special bottlings like the Primavera and Cask Strength expressions highlight different agave varietals or innovative production techniques.