Banhez Joven is a co-op owned, co-op made mezcal from San Miguel Ejutla in the central valley of Oaxaca, a blend of 90% Espadín and 10% Barril agave bottled at 84 proof (42% ABV).
Banhez is owned and operated by a cooperative of more than 36 Zapotec farming families who share ownership and profits collectively and are committed to sustainable, fair-trade mezcal production, made the same way their ancestors have made it for nearly two centuries. The agave is roasted in underground wood-fired pits, crushed with donkey-pulled tahonas, fermented in wooden tanks and distilled in small batches in copper alembics. The cooperative's work earned Double Gold and Best Mezcal at the 2017 San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
The nose leans toward roasted pineapple and tropical fruit with a subtle floral lift. The woody character of the wild Barril agave comes through the middle of the palate, adding structure beneath the Espadín's natural sweetness, and the finish carries light smoke and gentle spice.
Smooth and balanced, good for sipping and great in cocktails.
Mezcal is made by roasting agave hearts, traditionally in earthen pits, then crushing, fermenting and distilling them, a process that gives the spirit its characteristic smoky depth. Each agave variety and each village brings its own character, which is why enthusiasts love exploring small-batch bottlings.
Mezcal and other agave spirits are traditionally sipped from a copita or a small clay cup, in small sips, often alongside orange slices dusted with sal de gusano. Many are made in tiny batches by individual families, so each bottle is a snapshot of a particular place, agave and season.
Tasting Notes
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Nose: Roasted pineapple, tropical fruit, floral lift.
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Palate: Sweet agave, woody Barril structure.
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Finish: Light smoke and gentle spice.
Specifications
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Producer: Banhez cooperative, San Miguel Ejutla, Oaxaca
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Style: Joven mezcal ensamble
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Agave: 90% Espadín, 10% Barril
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Process: Wood-fired pits, donkey-pulled tahona, wooden tanks, copper alembics
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Proof / ABV: 84 proof (42% ABV)
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Size: 750ml
How to Enjoy It
Enjoy it neat, or let its gentle smoke anchor a mezcal Margarita, a Paloma or a Mezcal Negroni.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who makes Banhez?
A cooperative of more than 36 farming families in San Miguel Ejutla, Oaxaca.
What agaves are used?
90% Espadín and 10% Barril.
How smoky is it?
Balanced, with light smoke and tropical fruit.
Explore more in our Mezcal collection.
