Mal Bien
ABOUT:
Mezcal Mal Bien is not just a brand but a highly curated collection of artisanal and ancestral agave spirits sourced from independent, small-batch producers across Mexico. Built by spirits nerds and agave lovers Ben and Anthony during their extensive travels in search of the delicious, authentic, and interesting, the brand operates as a showcase of meaningful relationships with legendary mezcaleros. Committed to radical transparency, they highlight the specific artisans (like Oscar Morales Garcia, Felipe & Ageo Cortes, and Victor & Emanuel Ramos), the land where the agave was raised, and the traditional techniques unique to each village. Known affectionately among aficionados as the "#greentapegang" (due to their signature green tape labels), Mal Bien offers an incredibly diverse, terroir-driven tasting experience that expresses an authentic sense of place in every single sip.
WEBSITE:
https://www.mezcalmalbien.com/
MEZCALS OFFERED:
Mal Bien Espadín (Victor & Emanuel Ramos): Distilled in Miahuatlán, Oaxaca, by a father-and-son team, this Espadín serves as an outstanding introduction to the region's distinct style. The agaves are roasted in an earthen pit, fermented in open-air cypress vats, and distilled in copper pot stills. It opens with an alluringly grassy, citrus-forward nose, leading to a vibrant palate of roasted pineapple, lime zest, and wet clay, before finishing clean with a satisfying, peppery kick.
Mal Bien Alto (Isidro Rodríguez Montoya): Sourced from the state of Michoacán, this exceptional spirit is crafted by maestro Isidro Rodríguez Montoya using the wild Agave inaequidens (Alto). True to the local traditions, the spirit is fermented in stone pits lined with oak wood and distilled in a hollowed-out tree trunk (a Filipino-style still). It features a remarkably unique, savory profile with distinct aromas of pine, green bell pepper, and queso fresco. The palate offers flavors of sweet plantains, lactic funk, and rich, earthy herbs, ending in a long, complex finish.
Mal Bien Papalote (Félix Ramírez Mendez): Hailing from the rugged mountains of Guerrero, this expression is made from wild Agave cupreata (Papalote) by Félix Ramírez Mendez. It exemplifies the bold, funky character of the region. The nose bursts with overripe tropical fruits, leather, and dark cocoa. On the palate, it delivers a viscous, deeply satisfying mouthfeel with flavors of dark chocolate, roasted nuts, dried chilies, and sweet mango, balanced perfectly by an elegant, gentle smokiness.
Mal Bien Arroqueño (Felipe & Ageo Cortes): Crafted by the Cortes family in Mengolí de Morelos, Miahuatlán, this mezcal uses the massive, slow-growing Arroqueño agave. Distilled using a combination of a copper pot and a traditional refrescadera (a water-cooling vessel attached to the still), it captures the massive plant's softer side. It presents a wildly fragrant nose of jasmine, honeydew, and damp earth. The palate is lush and juicy, overflowing with notes of cantaloupe, rich vanilla, and subtle baking spices, finishing with a lingering, elegant minerality.