mezcal-varietals

Mezcal Agave Varietals & Brands — Comprehensive Reference

Last updated: January 2026 Sources: Wikipedia, Mezcalistas, Old Town Tequila, brand websites, and expert references. Approximately 40+ agave species are used in mezcal production. This guide covers the most significant varietals.

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Quick Reference Table

Common Name	Scientific Name	Rarity	Maturation (yrs)	Primary Region(s)	Price Range (USD)
Espadín	Agave angustifolia	Common	6–8	Oaxaca (widely cultivated)	$25–$60
Tobalá	Agave potatorum	Uncommon/Wild	12–15	Oaxaca, Puebla	$60–$150+
Arroqueño	Agave americana var. oaxacensis	Uncommon	15–25	Oaxaca (Valles Centrales)	$80–$200+
Madrecuixe	Agave karwinskii	Uncommon	10–14	Oaxaca (Ejutla, Miahuatlán)	$60–$150
Tepextate	Agave marmorata	Rare/Wild	15–30	Oaxaca (rocky cliffs)	$80–$200+
Cuishe	Agave karwinskii (subtype)	Uncommon	10–14	Oaxaca	$55–$120
Bicuixe	Agave karwinskii (subtype)	Uncommon	10–14	Oaxaca	$60–$130
Barril	Agave karwinskii (subtype)	Uncommon	10–14	Oaxaca	$55–$130
Tobaziche	Agave karwinskii (subtype)	Uncommon	12–15	Oaxaca	$60–$140
Cupreata / Papalote	Agave cupreata	Common (regional)	8–12	Guerrero, Michoacán	$35–$80
Cenizo / Duranguense	Agave durangensis	Common (regional)	8–12	Durango, Zacatecas	$30–$70
Salmiana	Agave salmiana	Common (regional)	8–15	San Luis Potosí, Zacatecas	$40–$90
Mexicano	Agave rhodacantha	Uncommon	8–12	Oaxaca, Guerrero	$45–$100
Jabalí	Agave convallis	Rare/Wild	10–15	Oaxaca	$90–$250+
Sierra Negra	Agave americana var.	Rare	15–25	Oaxaca (Sierra Sur)	$80–$180
Coyote	Agave americana var.	Rare/Wild	12–18	Oaxaca	$70–$160
Largo	Agave karwinskii (subtype)	Uncommon	10–15	Oaxaca	$60–$140
Tepeztate (alt. spelling)	Agave marmorata	Rare/Wild	15–30	Oaxaca	$80–$200+
Tobasiche	Agave karwinskii (subtype)	Uncommon	10–15	Oaxaca	$60–$140
Cirial	Agave karwinskii (subtype)	Rare	10–15	Oaxaca	$80–$180
Inaequidens	Agave inaequidens	Uncommon	8–12	Michoacán	$50–$100
Tequilana (Blue Agave)	Agave tequilana	Common	6–8	Oaxaca (for mezcal, not tequila)	$30–$60
Tripón	Agave americana (variant)	Rare	15–20	Oaxaca (Mixteca)	$90–$200
Pizorra / Castilla	Agave americana (variant)	Rare	12–20	Oaxaca	$80–$180
Sacatoro	Agave angustifolia (variant)	Uncommon	8–12	Guerrero	$50–$100

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Detailed Varietal Profiles & Brands

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1. Espadín (Agave angustifolia)

The workhorse of mezcal — accounts for ~80–90% of all mezcal produced.

• Scientific name: Agave angustifolia Haw.
• Common names: Espadín, Maguey espadín
• Region(s): Oaxaca (predominant), also cultivated in Puebla, Guerrero, Michoacán, Durango
• Flavor profile: Versatile. Sweet roasted agave, light smoke, citrus, green herbs, tropical fruit. The “baseline” mezcal flavor most people know. Can range from bright and herbaceous to rich and smoky depending on producer.
• Rarity: Common — most widely cultivated agave for mezcal. Easily propagated via hijuelos (shoots/pups).
• Maturation: 6–8 years
• IUCN Status: Least Concern
• Notes: Closely related to blue agave (A. tequilana). The entry point for most mezcal drinkers. Its ubiquity makes it an excellent canvas for showcasing a mezcalero’s technique.

Brands (Espadín)

Brand	Expression	Price (USD)	ABV	Tasting Notes	Where to Buy
Del Maguey	Vida	$25–$35	42%	Sweet smoke, ripe fruit, cocoa. Classic intro mezcal.	Total Wine, BevMo, Drizly, most retailers
Montelobos	Joven Espadín	$30–$40	43.2%	Roasted agave, citrus zest, white pepper, minerality. Balanced.	Total Wine, ReserveBar, wine shops
El Silencio	Joven	$28–$38	40%	Mild smoke, green apple, vanilla. Approachable.	Widely available at grocery/liquor stores
Ilegal	Joven	$30–$40	40%	Fruit-forward, green chile, subtle smoke. Craft cocktail favorite.	Total Wine, BevMo, K&L Wine
Banhez	Joven (Espadín/Barril blend)	$22–$30	40%	Fruity, soft smoke, herbal. Great value.	Total Wine, online retailers
Mezcal Vago	Espadín by Aquilino García	$35–$50	47.3%	Rich roasted agave, clay minerals, black pepper. Artisanal.	K&L Wine, specialty shops
Bozal	Espadín	$30–$42	47%	Tropical fruit, jalapeño, campfire smoke. Bold.	Total Wine, Caskers
Los Nahuales	Joven Espadín	$28–$38	45%	Clean, bright citrus, green herbs. Dry finish.	Specialty retailers

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2. Tobalá (Agave potatorum)

The “king of mezcals” — prized for complexity and elegance.

• Scientific name: Agave potatorum Zucc.
• Common names: Tobalá, Papalometl
• Region(s): Oaxaca (highlands above 1,500m), Puebla
• Flavor profile: Floral, fruity, tropical (mango, passion fruit, guava). Complex minerality. Less smoky, more perfumed and delicate than espadín. Often described as the most “elegant” mezcal agave.
• Rarity: Uncommon to wild-harvested. Small piñas yield less mezcal per plant. Cannot be easily propagated vegetatively — relies on seed dispersal by bats, making cultivation slow and challenging.
• Maturation: 12–15 years
• IUCN Status: Vulnerable
• Notes: Considered a benchmark for wild/semi-wild mezcal. The small plant yields proportionally less spirit, hence higher prices. Worth every penny.

Brands (Tobalá)

Brand	Expression	Price (USD)	ABV	Tasting Notes	Where to Buy
Del Maguey	Tobalá	$90–$130	45%	Mango, tropical fruit, floral bouquet, minerality. Classic.	K&L Wine, Total Wine, specialty shops
Real Minero	Tobalá	$100–$160	49–51%	Intensely floral, jasmine, green herbs, wet earth. Ancestral production.	Specialty mezcal shops, Old Town Tequila
Mezcal Vago	Tobalá by Aquilino	$70–$100	48.6%	Stone fruit, white flower, green pepper, clay.	K&L Wine, specialty retailers
El Jolgorio	Tobalá	$90–$140	48%	Tropical fruit, honeycomb, vanilla, mild smoke.	Old Town Tequila, specialty shops
Bozal	Tobalá	$70–$95	47%	Bright fruit, jalapeño, earthy minerality.	Total Wine, Caskers, online retailers

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3. Arroqueño (Agave americana var. oaxacensis)

A massive agave producing bold, herbaceous mezcal.

• Scientific name: Agave americana var. oaxacensis
• Common names: Arroqueño, Maguey arroqueño
• Region(s): Oaxaca (Valles Centrales, Ejutla, Tlacolula)
• Flavor profile: Bold, herbaceous, earthy. Green vegetables (asparagus, celery), chocolate, cinnamon, black pepper. Long, lingering finish. Often described as “savory” with a muscular body.
• Rarity: Uncommon. Very large piñas (can exceed 200kg) but extremely long maturation. Semi-wild.
• Maturation: 15–25 years
• Notes: One of the largest agaves used in mezcal. A single piña can weigh as much as a person. The lengthy growth cycle makes it an investment to produce.

Brands (Arroqueño)

Brand	Expression	Price (USD)	ABV	Tasting Notes	Where to Buy
Del Maguey	Arroqueño	$120–$180	49%	Dark chocolate, black pepper, dried herbs, smoke. Powerful.	K&L Wine, specialty retailers
Real Minero	Arroqueño	$120–$180	49–51%	Green herbs, roasted vegetables, cacao, wet stone. Ancestral.	Old Town Tequila, specialty shops
El Jolgorio	Arroqueño	$100–$160	47.5%	Herbaceous, cedar, dark fruit, baking spice.	Old Town Tequila, specialty shops
Mezcal Vago	Arroqueño	$80–$130	48.2%	Earthy, herbal, cocoa, green pepper.	K&L Wine, specialty retailers
Bozal	Arroqueño	$70–$100	47%	Cinnamon, chocolate, vegetal, smoke.	Total Wine, Caskers

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4. Madrecuixe (Agave karwinskii)

A tall, tree-like agave yielding complex, mineral-driven mezcal.

• Scientific name: Agave karwinskii Zucc. (madre-cuishe type)
• Common names: Madrecuixe, Madrecuishe
• Region(s): Oaxaca (Ejutla, Miahuatlán, Sierra Sur)
• Flavor profile: Mineral, herbal, green notes. Often described as vegetal (green bean, artichoke), with citrus, white pepper, and a distinctly “wet stone” minerality. Clean, dry finish.
• Rarity: Uncommon. Part of the karwinskii species complex with many subtypes.
• Maturation: 10–14 years
• Notes: A. karwinskii is a species complex that produces many distinct subtypes used in mezcal (Cuishe, Bicuixe, Barril, Tobaziche, Largo, Cirial). Madrecuixe is the most common of these.

Brands (Madrecuixe)

Brand	Expression	Price (USD)	ABV	Tasting Notes	Where to Buy
El Jolgorio	Madrecuixe	$80–$130	48%	Green herbs, citrus peel, mineral, light smoke.	Old Town Tequila, specialty shops
Mezcal Vago	Madrecuixe by Aquilino	$60–$95	47.5%	Vegetal, wet stone, lime zest, white pepper.	K&L Wine, specialty retailers
Real Minero	Madrecuixe	$90–$140	49%	Artichoke, green herbs, clay, stone fruit. Ancestral.	Specialty mezcal shops
Bozal	Madrecuixe	$60–$90	47%	Green bean, mineral, mild citrus, earthy.	Total Wine, Caskers
Alipús	San Andrés (Madrecuixe)	$50–$75	47.3%	Herbal, mineral, clean. Village-specific production.	Specialty retailers

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5. Tepextate (Agave marmorata)

The “cliff-dweller” — wild agave producing extraordinary mezcal.

• Scientific name: Agave marmorata Roezl
• Common names: Tepextate, Tepeztate
• Region(s): Oaxaca (rocky cliffs, steep hillsides, canyons — often grows in seemingly impossible locations)
• Flavor profile: Intensely aromatic and complex. Tropical fruit (banana, pineapple), floral, green herbs, wet rock minerality, and a distinctive vegetal sweetness. Often has a menthol or eucalyptus quality. Considered one of the most unique and sought-after mezcal profiles.
• Rarity: Rare/Wild. Nearly always wild-harvested from cliffs and rocky terrain. Cannot be cultivated easily due to specific habitat requirements.
• Maturation: 15–30 years (one of the longest maturation periods of any mezcal agave)
• Notes: The name “tepextate” derives from Nahuatl and refers to the rocky terrain where it grows. Harvesting is physically demanding and sometimes dangerous.

Brands (Tepextate)

Brand	Expression	Price (USD)	ABV	Tasting Notes	Where to Buy
Del Maguey	Tepextate	$130–$200	45%	Banana, eucalyptus, floral, wet stone. Extraordinary complexity.	K&L Wine, specialty retailers
Real Minero	Tepextate	$130–$200	50–52%	Intensely floral, menthol, tropical fruit, mineral. Ancestral.	Old Town Tequila, specialty shops
El Jolgorio	Tepextate	$110–$170	48%	Green fruit, floral, herbaceous, intense minerality.	Old Town Tequila, specialty shops
Mezcal Vago	Tepextate by Emigdio	$90–$140	49.5%	Pineapple, eucalyptus, green herbs, clay.	K&L Wine, specialty retailers
Bozal	Tepextate	$80–$120	47%	Banana, lime, floral, minty, rock mineral.	Total Wine, Caskers

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6. Cuishe (Agave karwinskii — Cuishe subtype)

Tall, slender cousin of Madrecuixe with brighter, fruitier notes.

• Scientific name: Agave karwinskii Zucc. (cuishe type)
• Common names: Cuishe, Cuixe
• Region(s): Oaxaca (Miahuatlán, Ejutla, Santiago Matatlán)
• Flavor profile: Bright, citrusy, with herbal and mineral notes. Lighter and more aromatic than Madrecuixe. Lime peel, green herbs, white pepper, and a distinctive “savory” quality.
• Rarity: Uncommon
• Maturation: 10–14 years
• Notes: Distinguished from Madrecuixe by its more cylindrical stem and somewhat brighter flavor profile. Popular in ensambles.

Brands (Cuishe)

Brand	Expression	Price (USD)	ABV	Tasting Notes	Where to Buy
El Jolgorio	Cuishe	$75–$120	48%	Bright citrus, herbal, dry minerality, white pepper.	Old Town Tequila, specialty shops
Mezcal Vago	Cuishe by Joel	$55–$85	47.5%	Lime zest, green herbs, salt, mineral.	K&L Wine, specialty retailers
Alipús	San Luis del Río (Cuishe)	$45–$70	47%	Herbal, citrus, clean minerality.	Specialty retailers
Nuestra Soledad	Santiago Matatlán (Cuishe)	$40–$60	47%	Bright, herbaceous, mineral finish.	Specialty retailers

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7. Bicuixe (Agave karwinskii — Bicuixe subtype)

A taller variant producing intensely herbal, dry mezcal.

• Scientific name: Agave karwinskii Zucc. (bicuixe type)
• Common names: Bicuixe, Bicuishe
• Region(s): Oaxaca (particularly around Miahuatlán)
• Flavor profile: Intensely herbal and vegetal. Green bean, artichoke, dried herbs, with a dry, almost austere minerality. Less fruity than Cuishe but more complex in its vegetal qualities.
• Rarity: Uncommon
• Maturation: 10–14 years

Brands (Bicuixe)

Brand	Expression	Price (USD)	ABV	Tasting Notes	Where to Buy
El Jolgorio	Bicuixe	$75–$120	48%	Intense herbs, green bean, mineral, dry.	Old Town Tequila, specialty shops
Mezcal Vago	Bicuixe	$55–$85	47%	Herbal, artichoke, mineral, clean finish.	K&L Wine
Bozal	Bicuixe	$55–$80	47%	Green herbs, dry mineral, white pepper.	Total Wine, Caskers

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8. Barril (Agave karwinskii — Barril subtype)

Named for its barrel-shaped trunk; smooth, fruity, and accessible.

• Scientific name: Agave karwinskii Zucc. (barril type)
• Common names: Barril
• Region(s): Oaxaca
• Flavor profile: Smoother and slightly sweeter than other karwinskii subtypes. Stone fruit, caramel, vanilla, mild herbaceous notes, and light smoke. One of the more approachable karwinskii expressions.
• Rarity: Uncommon
• Maturation: 10–14 years
• Notes: Named for the barrel-like shape of its trunk/stem.

Brands (Barril)

Brand	Expression	Price (USD)	ABV	Tasting Notes	Where to Buy
Banhez	Joven (Espadín/Barril ensamble)	$22–$30	40%	Fruity, soft smoke, herbal blend. Great value.	Total Wine, online
El Jolgorio	Barril	$75–$120	48%	Stone fruit, caramel, vanilla, light herbs.	Old Town Tequila
Bozal	Barril	$55–$80	47%	Smooth, fruit-forward, caramel, mild smoke.	Total Wine, Caskers
Real Minero	Barril	$90–$130	49%	Elegant, vanilla, stone fruit, mineral. Ancestral.	Specialty shops

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9. Tobaziche / Tobasiche (Agave karwinskii — Tobaziche subtype)

The rarest of the common karwinskii subtypes.

• Scientific name: Agave karwinskii Zucc. (tobaziche type)
• Common names: Tobaziche, Tobasiche, Tobaxiche
• Region(s): Oaxaca
• Flavor profile: Earthy, leathery, dried fruit, chocolate, tobacco. Deeper, darker flavor profile than other karwinskii subtypes. Often has a roasted quality.
• Rarity: Uncommon to rare
• Maturation: 12–15 years

Brands (Tobaziche)

Brand	Expression	Price (USD)	ABV	Tasting Notes	Where to Buy
El Jolgorio	Tobaziche	$80–$130	48%	Leather, chocolate, dried fruit, roasted.	Old Town Tequila
Mezcal Vago	Tobaziche	$60–$90	47%	Earthy, tobacco, dark fruit, mineral.	K&L Wine
Real Minero	Tobaziche	$90–$140	49%	Deep earth, cacao, leather, roasted. Ancestral.	Specialty shops

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10. Cupreata / Papalote (Agave cupreata)

The star of Guerrero mezcal — fruity, tropical, and distinctive.

• Scientific name: Agave cupreata Trel. & A.Berger
• Common names: Cupreata, Papalote, Maguey papalote
• Region(s): Guerrero, Michoacán (Río Balsas basin, 1,200–1,800m elevation)
• Flavor profile: Distinctly tropical and fruity. Mango, papaya, passion fruit, with earthy undertones. Less smoky than Oaxacan espadín. Has a bright, almost wine-like acidity. Often described as “juicy.”
• Rarity: Common within its region, but mostly wild-harvested. IUCN listed as Endangered due to overharvesting.
• Maturation: 8–12 years (monocarpic — does not reproduce clonally)
• IUCN Status: Endangered
• Notes: The dominant agave for mezcal in Guerrero state. Reproduces only by seed (no pups), making it vulnerable to overharvesting.

Brands (Cupreata)

Brand	Expression	Price (USD)	ABV	Tasting Notes	Where to Buy
Mezcal Vago	Cupreata by Joel	$45–$65	49.1%	Mango, passion fruit, green herbs, mineral.	K&L Wine, specialty retailers
Bozal	Cupreata	$40–$60	47%	Tropical fruit, earthy, bright acidity.	Total Wine, Caskers
Rey Campero	Cupreata	$50–$80	48.5%	Rich tropical fruit, herbs, mineral finish.	Specialty retailers
Marca Negra	Cupreata	$65–$90	49.2%	Mango, earthy, peppery, complex.	Specialty retailers
Sangriento	Papalote	$45–$70	48%	Bright fruit, earth, green herbs.	Select retailers

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11. Cenizo / Duranguense (Agave durangensis)

The heart of Durango mezcal — earthy, herbaceous, and rustic.

• Scientific name: Agave durangensis Gentry
• Common names: Cenizo, Duranguense, Maguey cenizo
• Region(s): Durango, Zacatecas (high desert)
• Flavor profile: Earthy, herbaceous, with sage-like and rosemary notes. Rustic smoke character. More austere and mineral-driven than Oaxacan mezcals. Can have a “desert” quality — dry, dusty, aromatic.
• Rarity: Common within its region
• Maturation: 8–12 years
• Notes: Durango is Mexico’s second-largest mezcal-producing state. The high-altitude desert climate creates a distinctly different flavor profile from Oaxacan mezcals.

Brands (Cenizo/Duranguense)

Brand	Expression	Price (USD)	ABV	Tasting Notes	Where to Buy
Lagrimas de Dolores	Cenizo	$50–$75	47%	Sage, rosemary, dusty minerals, light smoke.	Specialty retailers
Mezcal Vago	Cuixe/Duranguense blend	$45–$65	47%	Earthy, herbal, desert sage.	K&L Wine
Bozal	Cenizo	$40–$55	47%	Herbaceous, mineral, dry, aromatic.	Total Wine, Caskers
Cinco Sentidos	Cenizo	$65–$95	48%	Complex herbs, smoke, mineral depth.	Specialty shops

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12. Salmiana (Agave salmiana)

The pulque agave that also makes outstanding mezcal.

• Scientific name: Agave salmiana Otto ex Salm-Dyck
• Common names: Salmiana, Maguey pulquero, Green maguey
• Region(s): San Luis Potosí, Zacatecas, central Mexico highlands
• Flavor profile: Sweet, earthy, cooked agave. Honey, butterscotch, dried fruit, gentle smoke. Rounder, softer, and sweeter than most mezcals. Sometimes described as “dessert-like.”
• Rarity: Common in its region but uncommon in mezcal (more traditionally used for pulque)
• Maturation: 8–15 years (some subspecies up to 25 years)
• IUCN Status: Least Concern
• Notes: One of the largest agave species. Traditionally used for pulque (fermented agave sap). Mezcal from salmiana tends to be less smoky because it’s often roasted in above-ground brick ovens in San Luis Potosí rather than underground pits.

Brands (Salmiana)

Brand	Expression	Price (USD)	ABV	Tasting Notes	Where to Buy
Real de Magueyes	Salmiana	$50–$75	46%	Honey, butterscotch, dried fruit, gentle.	Specialty retailers
Mezcal de Leyendas	San Luis Potosí (Salmiana)	$55–$85	45%	Sweet, cooked agave, caramel, earthy.	Specialty shops
Maguey Melate	Salmiana (rotating batches)	$65–$100	47–50%	Varies by batch — honey, earth, roasted agave.	Maguey Melate subscription
Lagrimas de Dolores	Salmiana	$55–$80	47%	Round, sweet, gentle smoke, butterscotch.	Specialty retailers

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13. Mexicano (Agave rhodacantha)

An underrated variety with bright, herbal character.

• Scientific name: Agave rhodacantha Trel.
• Common names: Mexicano, Dobadaan (in Zapotec)
• Region(s): Oaxaca, Guerrero, Jalisco
• Flavor profile: Bright, herbal, citrusy. Green herbs, lime, cucumber, with light floral notes. Clean and fresh. Less smoky and earthy than espadín.
• Rarity: Uncommon — cultivated in some regions, semi-wild in others
• Maturation: 8–12 years
• Notes: One of the original agaves used for mezcal production in Jalisco, dating back to the earliest days of mezcal distillation.

Brands (Mexicano)

Brand	Expression	Price (USD)	ABV	Tasting Notes	Where to Buy
El Jolgorio	Mexicano	$70–$110	48%	Bright herbs, citrus, floral, clean.	Old Town Tequila
Nuestra Soledad	Mexicano	$40–$55	47%	Herbaceous, fresh, mineral, citrus.	Specialty retailers
Mezcal de Leyendas	Guerrero (Mexicano)	$50–$75	45%	Green herbs, lime, floral, light earth.	Specialty shops

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14. Jabalí (Agave convallis)

The “wild boar” — unpredictable, explosive, and unforgettable.

• Scientific name: Agave convallis Trel. (also sometimes listed as Agave jabalí)
• Common names: Jabalí (meaning “wild boar”)
• Region(s): Oaxaca (mountain slopes)
• Flavor profile: Wildly complex and unpredictable. Intense tropical fruit, fermented pineapple, cheese rind, green herbs, and a funky, almost “wild” quality. Can be polarizing — either loved or challenging. High in natural sugars that can make fermentation volatile.
• Rarity: Rare/Wild. Notoriously difficult to work with — high sugar content causes fermentation to be unpredictable, often exploding or going off in unexpected directions.
• Maturation: 10–15 years
• Notes: One of the most challenging agaves for mezcaleros to work with. Many batches fail during fermentation. The resulting mezcal, when successful, is among the most exciting and distinctive in the world.

Brands (Jabalí)

Brand	Expression	Price (USD)	ABV	Tasting Notes	Where to Buy
Real Minero	Jabalí	$150–$250	50–52%	Wild fruit, cheese, herbs, funky. Ancestral.	Specialty shops
El Jolgorio	Jabalí	$120–$180	48%	Fermented fruit, tropical, cheese rind, wild.	Old Town Tequila
Mezcal Vago	Jabalí by Aquilino	$100–$160	50.2%	Pineapple, herbal, funky, complex.	K&L Wine
Bozal	Jabalí	$90–$130	47%	Tropical, pungent, green herbs, wild.	Total Wine, Caskers

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15. Sierra Negra (Agave americana var.)

A high-altitude giant producing bold, dark-toned mezcal.

• Scientific name: Agave americana (Sierra Negra variant)
• Common names: Sierra Negra, Maguey de sierra
• Region(s): Oaxaca (Sierra Sur, high elevations)
• Flavor profile: Bold, dark, chocolatey. Roasted coffee, dark chocolate, dried fruit, leather, tobacco. A “winter” mezcal — rich, warming, and full-bodied.
• Rarity: Rare
• Maturation: 15–25 years
• Notes: Named for the Sierra Negra mountain range where it grows. The extremely long maturation results in concentrated sugars and deep, complex flavors.

Brands (Sierra Negra)

Brand	Expression	Price (USD)	ABV	Tasting Notes	Where to Buy
El Jolgorio	Sierra Negra	$90–$150	48%	Dark chocolate, coffee, dried fruit, tobacco.	Old Town Tequila
Mezcal Vago	Sierra Negra	$70–$110	48%	Rich, chocolatey, leather, roasted.	K&L Wine
Bozal	Sierra Negra	$65–$95	47%	Bold, dark fruit, cacao, smoke.	Total Wine, Caskers

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16. Coyote (Agave americana var.)

Wild-harvested, mineral-rich, and increasingly sought-after.

• Scientific name: Agave americana (Coyote variant)
• Common names: Coyote
• Region(s): Oaxaca (mountainous areas)
• Flavor profile: Earthy, mineral, with herbal and floral notes. Wet stone, dried herbs, subtle fruit. Complex and evolving on the palate.
• Rarity: Rare/Wild
• Maturation: 12–18 years

Brands (Coyote)

Brand	Expression	Price (USD)	ABV	Tasting Notes	Where to Buy
El Jolgorio	Coyote	$80–$130	48%	Mineral, herbal, floral, wet stone.	Old Town Tequila
Bozal	Coyote	$60–$90	47%	Earthy, herbal, mineral, dried fruit.	Total Wine, Caskers
Cinco Sentidos	Coyote	$75–$120	48%	Floral, mineral, complex herbs.	Specialty shops

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17. Inaequidens (Agave inaequidens)

The Michoacán wildcat — increasingly featured as mezcal’s footprint expands.

• Scientific name: Agave inaequidens K.Koch
• Common names: Inaequidens, Maguey alto, Maguey bruto, Maguey chino
• Region(s): Michoacán, Jalisco (highlands)
• Flavor profile: Herbal, floral, with green notes and a bright acidity. Can have a slightly “raw” or peppery edge. Mineral finish.
• Rarity: Uncommon
• Maturation: 8–12 years
• Notes: Common in Michoacán and increasingly used in certified mezcal as the DO expands.

Brands (Inaequidens)

Brand	Expression	Price (USD)	ABV	Tasting Notes	Where to Buy
Mezcal de Leyendas	Michoacán (Inaequidens)	$55–$80	45%	Herbal, bright, floral, peppery.	Specialty shops
Bozal	Inaequidens	$50–$75	47%	Green herbs, mineral, bright acid, pepper.	Total Wine, Caskers

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18. Largo (Agave karwinskii — Largo subtype)

The tallest of the karwinskii family — strikingly unique.

• Scientific name: Agave karwinskii Zucc. (largo type)
• Common names: Largo
• Region(s): Oaxaca
• Flavor profile: Intensely mineral and herbal. More austere and dry than other karwinskii subtypes. Green olive, dried herbs, stone, salt.
• Rarity: Uncommon to rare
• Maturation: 10–15 years

Brands (Largo)

Brand	Expression	Price (USD)	ABV	Tasting Notes	Where to Buy
El Jolgorio	Largo	$80–$130	48%	Mineral, olive, dried herbs, salt.	Old Town Tequila
Real Minero	Largo	$90–$150	49%	Austere, mineral, herbal. Ancestral.	Specialty shops

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19. Tripón (Agave americana variant)

A rare giant from the Mixteca region.

• Scientific name: Agave americana (Tripón variant)
• Common names: Tripón
• Region(s): Oaxaca (Mixteca region)
• Flavor profile: Sweet, cooked agave, caramel, roasted fruit, chocolate. Full-bodied and rich.
• Rarity: Rare
• Maturation: 15–20 years

Brands (Tripón)

Brand	Expression	Price (USD)	ABV	Tasting Notes	Where to Buy
El Jolgorio	Tripón	$100–$160	48%	Sweet, caramel, chocolate, roasted fruit.	Old Town Tequila
Cinco Sentidos	Tripón	$90–$150	48%	Rich, cooked agave, dark caramel.	Specialty shops

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20. Tequilana (Blue Agave for Mezcal) (Agave tequilana)

The blue agave — not just for tequila.

• Scientific name: Agave tequilana F.A.C.Weber
• Common names: Blue agave, Agave azul, Tequilana
• Region(s): Oaxaca (for mezcal production; Jalisco for tequila)
• Flavor profile: When made as mezcal (pit-roasted rather than steam-cooked): sweet, smoky, cooked agave, vanilla, caramel. Richer and smokier than tequila from the same plant.
• Rarity: Common (but uncommon as mezcal)
• Maturation: 6–8 years
• Notes: Though primarily associated with tequila, blue agave is increasingly used for mezcal production in Oaxaca, yielding a distinctly different spirit than tequila.

Brands (Tequilana/Blue Agave Mezcal)

Brand	Expression	Price (USD)	ABV	Tasting Notes	Where to Buy
Wahaka	Blue Agave Mezcal	$35–$50	45%	Smoky, sweet, vanilla, caramel. Different from tequila.	Specialty retailers
Mezcal de Leyendas	Tequilana	$40–$60	45%	Sweet smoke, roasted agave, vanilla.	Specialty shops

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Additional Noteworthy Varietals

Cirial (Agave karwinskii — Cirial subtype)

• Rarity: Rare
• Maturation: 10–15 years
• Flavor: Intensely dry, mineral, herbal, salt
• Brands: El Jolgorio, Cinco Sentidos ($80–$160)

Espadilla (Agave angustifolia variant or Agave karwinskii)

• Rarity: Uncommon
• Maturation: 8–12 years
• Flavor: Fruity, slightly sweeter than standard espadín
• Brands: Bozal, various small producers ($40–$80)

Sacatoro (Agave angustifolia variant)

• Region: Guerrero
• Rarity: Uncommon
• Maturation: 8–12 years
• Flavor: Bright, fruity, green herbs
• Brands: Mezcal de Leyendas Guerrero ($50–$80)

Lamparillo / Lumbre

• Species: Agave asperrima (also sometimes A. americana subtypes)
• Region: Durango, Zacatecas
• Rarity: Uncommon
• Maturation: 8–12 years
• Flavor: Earthy, herbal, rustic smoke
• Brands: Lagrimas de Dolores ($50–$80)

Pizorra / Castilla

• Species: Agave americana variant
• Region: Oaxaca
• Rarity: Rare
• Maturation: 12–20 years
• Flavor: Bold, earthy, vegetal, complex
• Brands: El Jolgorio ($100–$160)

San Martinero / San Martín

• Species: Agave karwinskii or A. americana subtypes
• Region: Oaxaca
• Rarity: Rare
• Maturation: 12–18 years
• Flavor: Mineral, herbal, complex
• Brands: Small batch producers ($80–$150)

Papalote — see Cupreata (above)

Pulquero

• Species: Agave salmiana or A. atrovirens
• Region: San Luis Potosí, central Mexico
• Rarity: Uncommon as mezcal
• Maturation: 10–20 years
• Flavor: Sweet, honey, cooked agave
• Brands: Small batch producers ($50–$90)

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Understanding Ensambles (Blends)

An ensamble is a mezcal made from multiple agave species, either co-distilled together or blended after distillation. Ensambles are a traditional practice and can produce extraordinary complexity. Some notable ensamble brands:

Brand	Ensamble	Agaves Used	Price (USD)	ABV
Banhez	Joven Ensamble	Espadín + Barril	$22–$30	40%
Del Maguey	Ibérico Ensamble	Multiple wild agaves	$70–$110	47%
Mezcal Vago	Ensamble en Barro	Espadín + Mexicano + Cuishe	$45–$65	47%
Rey Campero	Ensamble	Espadín + Madrecuixe + Cuishe	$55–$80	48%
Real Minero	Ensamble	Barril + Largo + others	$100–$160	50%
Bozal	Ensamble	Various by batch	$40–$65	47%

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Key Brands Overview

Major Producers (Wide Distribution)

Brand	Style	Origin	Price Range	Notes
Del Maguey	Single Village	Oaxaca	$25–$200+	Pioneer of single-village mezcal. Ron Cooper’s legacy brand. Wide varietal range.
Ilegal	Artisanal	Oaxaca	$30–$50	Great cocktail mezcal. Born from a bar in Antigua, Guatemala.
Montelobos	Artisanal	Oaxaca/Puebla	$30–$45	Created by Dr. Iván Saldaña (PhD in Agave). Excellent espadín.
El Silencio	Artisanal	Oaxaca	$28–$45	Approachable and well-marketed. Good entry point.
Banhez	Cooperative	Oaxaca	$22–$30	Cooperative-owned. Exceptional value. Espadín/Barril blend.
Casamigos	Artisanal	Oaxaca	$40–$55	Celebrity brand (Clooney). Smooth, accessible.

Craft/Artisanal Producers (Specialty Distribution)

Brand	Style	Origin	Price Range	Notes
Real Minero	Ancestral	Oaxaca	$80–$250	The Ángeles family. Clay-pot distilled. Some of the finest mezcal in the world.
Mezcal Vago	Artisanal	Oaxaca	$35–$160	Multiple mezcaleros, each with distinct expressions.
El Jolgorio	Artisanal	Oaxaca	$60–$180	Enormous varietal range — arguably the widest single-agave lineup.
Alipús	Village Series	Oaxaca	$35–$75	Village-specific expressions. Great value for artisanal mezcal.
Nuestra Soledad	Village Series	Oaxaca	$30–$60	Sister brand to El Jolgorio. Village-specific, great price point.
Bozal	Artisanal	Oaxaca/Guerrero	$30–$130	Wide varietal range at reasonable prices. “In the wild” series.
Rey Campero	Artisanal	Oaxaca	$45–$100	Maestro Romulo Sánchez. Excellent cupreata and ensambles.
Cinco Sentidos	Artisanal	Various	$60–$200	Curated batches from across Mexico. Rare varietals.
Marca Negra	Artisanal	Oaxaca/Guerrero	$50–$130	Beautiful bottles. Excellent cupreata and rare agaves.
Mezcal de Leyendas	Regional	Multi-state	$45–$85	Produces mezcal from different states — showcases regional diversity.
Lagrimas de Dolores	Artisanal	Durango	$45–$80	Leading Durango producer. Cenizo specialist.
Maguey Melate	Subscription	Various	$60–$100+/bottle	Subscription mezcal club. Rare, single-batch mezcals from various mezcaleros. Rotating varietals.

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Where to Buy Mezcal in the US

Online Retailers

• Old Town Tequila (oldtowntequila.com) — San Diego. One of the largest mezcal selections online.
• K&L Wine Merchants (klwines.com) — San Francisco. Excellent curated mezcal selection.
• Caskers (caskers.com) — Good selection, ships widely.
• ReserveBar (reservebar.com) — Premium spirits marketplace.
• Maguey Melate (magueymelate.com) — Subscription service for rare, small-batch mezcal.

Brick & Mortar

• Total Wine & More — National chain with growing mezcal selection.
• BevMo — West Coast chain.
• Spec’s — Texas-based with excellent agave spirits section.
• Astor Wines (NYC) — Outstanding mezcal selection.

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Glossary

Term	Definition
Agave / Maguey	The succulent plant used to make mezcal. Over 200 species exist; ~40 are used for mezcal.
Piña	The “heart” of the agave after leaves (pencas) are removed. Roasted to convert starches to sugars.
Mezcalero / Maestro	The master distiller who produces mezcal.
Palenque	A mezcal distillery (Oaxaca). Also called vinata or taberna in other regions.
Ensamble	A mezcal made from a blend of multiple agave species.
Pechuga	Mezcal distilled with a chicken (or turkey/rabbit) breast and fruit suspended in the still. Ceremonial.
Joven	Unaged, clear mezcal. The most common and traditional style.
Reposado	Mezcal aged 2–12 months in wood.
Añejo	Mezcal aged 12+ months in wood containers under 1,000L.
Artesanal	Certified production category using artisanal stills and methods.
Ancestral	Highest certified production category — must use clay pot (Filipino-type) stills only.
Hijuelo	A “pup” or shoot that grows from the mother agave. Used for vegetative propagation.
Quiote	The flowering stalk of an agave. If allowed to flower, the agave dies and cannot be used for mezcal.
Capón	An agave whose quiote has been cut to redirect sugars back into the piña. Sometimes used as a varietal label.
NOM	Norma Oficial Mexicana — the regulatory framework governing mezcal production.
CRM / COMERCAM	Consejo Regulador del Mezcal — the certification body for mezcal.
DO / DOM	Denominación de Origen del Mezcal — the geographic designation that defines where mezcal can legally be produced.

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Notes on Taxonomy & Regional Names

Mezcal agave naming is notoriously complex. Key things to understand:

1. Common names ≠ scientific names: Multiple common names can refer to the same species, and the same common name can refer to different species in different regions.

2. Agave karwinskii is a species complex: Madrecuixe, Cuishe, Bicuixe, Barril, Tobaziche, Largo, and Cirial are all subtypes of A. karwinskii but produce dramatically different mezcals.

3. Agave americana is similarly complex: Arroqueño, Sierra Negra, Coyote, and Tripón are all variants of A. americana.

4. Regional naming: The same agave may be called different names in different communities. This is part of mezcal’s cultural richness, not a bug.

5. Wild vs. cultivated: Some agaves (like Espadín) are extensively farmed. Others (like Tepextate, Jabalí) are almost exclusively wild-harvested, raising sustainability concerns.

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This guide is a living document. Mezcal is a fast-evolving category with new brands, expressions, and even newly identified agave varietals appearing regularly. Prices fluctuate based on availability, batch size, and market demand.