Maguey Melate Papalometl from David Rivera Herrera is produced in Santa Maria Ixcatlan, Oaxaca using traditional Ixcateco production methods.
About this destilado de agave
Maguey Melate Papalometl from David Rivera Herrera was originally released as the January 2020 Mezcalero of the Month agave spirit. David produces in the small, rural community of Santa Maria Ixcatlan, Oaxaca. He producers mezcal using the traditions of this region, which are only followed by a handful of producers today, by fermenting agave in cowhides. David is just a young man and represents the next generation of this type of production.
Maguey Melate
Maguey Melate was founded on two ideas: 1) Artisanal agave spirits are amazing and should be shared with the world, and 2) The faster-cheaper economy is a harmful force for people, the environment, and now agave spirits.
They believe if mezcal (and agave spirits) can be understood and appreciated at its full potential, people will show their preference for quality artisanal mezcal that is sustainably and fairly sourced. By raising consumer consciousness on the origins of mezcal and educating enthusiasts on matters of quality and character, informed people will be empowered to ensure the future of mezcal. To do this, they’re reaching a large audience with an impactful message: KEEP MEZCAL ARTISANAL!
Maguey Melate is perhaps most well-known for their Mezcalero of the Month Club, which delivers artisanal small-batch agave spirits directly to the doors of consumers in the US and Mexico. In addition to the monthly spirits, they offer exclusive content and interviews with producers. Single releases are also available in the Maguey Melate shop.
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Tyler
668 reviewsIxcatlan mezcal is very unique and I’m not 100% in love with them quite yet. But this is a really fun mezcal. Notes of mint gum, dry fruit tape, honey syrup, and a bit of anise. Zesty finish at 51.6% ABV. This was a 50ml taster from the first Melate tasting box (which was awesome). Lot DAV-PAP-002. 50 liters, March 2020.
Zack Klamn
542 reviewsNose – Funky guava note. BBQ Hawaiian chicken – sweet n’ meaty.
Palate – I’m a big fan of cow hide fermentation. A nice, hot punch midway through then almost a cooling, evaporative effect shortly after. Finish is exceptional – a charred meaty smokiness like a pineapple- marinated (hat tip to Rakhal – bbq pineapple is spot on!) sirloin charred on an oak campfire grill. Clam shell saltiness to complete the surf ‘n turf aspect.
David Rivera – ya frickin’ nailed it, buddy!
Nose – Funky guava note. BBQ Hawaiian chicken – sweet n’ meaty.
Palate – I’m a big fan of cow hide fermentation. A nice, hot punch midway through then almost a cooling, evaporative effect shortly after. Finish is exceptional – a charred meaty smokiness like a pineapple- marinated (hat tip to Rakhal – bbq pineapple is spot on!) sirloin charred on an oak campfire grill. Clam shell saltiness to complete the surf ‘n turf aspect.
David Rivera – y
t8ke
144 reviewsSweet at first before the salinity and meat move on in. This is next level savory and reminds me of meat, crackers and cheese. Charcuterie in a bottle.
Nic Hnastchenko
109 reviewsNot sure that I’ve had any other mezcals fermented in the cow hide.
El Dawg
235 reviewsThat cowhide sure is crazy. This one is very different & unique. Mint & spice on the end, musty with some woodiness. Not sure at all about this one….out of the 10 pack taster pack this was 2nd to last.
Jonny
736 reviewsIt’s taken me awhile to really appreciate Ixcateco mezcal. At first, tasting stuff from Amando Alvarez, it was too meaty and taxidermy-ish for me. But the mouthfeel and subtle complexities have really grown on me. I now find that I’m sometimes only in the mood for mezcal from Ixcatlan. This one from David Rivera Herrera is awesome. The nose has grilled pineapple, clove, vanilla bean, and sweet pork glaze. The palate is thick with a nice saltiness to it. Notes of green olives, paprika, cumin, and jalapeno. The more frequently I open this, the more I enjoy it.
It’s taken me awhile to really appreciate Ixcateco mezcal. At first, tasting stuff from Amando Alvarez, it was too meaty and taxidermy-ish for me. But the mouthfeel and subtle complexities have really grown on me. I now find that I’m sometimes only in the mood for mezcal from Ixcatlan. This one from David Rivera Herrera is awesome. The nose has grilled pineapple, clove, vanilla bean, and sweet pork glaze. The palate is thick with a nice saltiness to it. Notes of green olives, paprika
Rakhal
430 reviewsBarbecued pineapple, caramel, cinnamon, mango, pine, with a spicy salty cayenne pepper olive brine finish.
GreenspointTexas
385 reviewsMiddle of the road. Completely average. Not bad, but not something im dying to open again anytime soon.