Mezcal Mojave
ABOUT:
Mala Idea Mezcal (translating to "Bad Idea") was founded by Marcos Mendoza based on a bold, risky vision that led him to Oaxaca. The brand’s name is a heartfelt celebration of the men and women who courageously follow their passions, regardless of the challenges or the people who might call it a "bad idea." True to this adventurous spirit, the team goes to great lengths to seek out the absolute ripest and most mature agaves—from semi-cultivated Espadín to fiercely wild varieties found in rugged Oaxacan terrains. Operating with a deep respect for 400-year-old traditions, they handcraft their mezcals in micro-batches to guarantee exceptional quality. The process involves roasting agave hearts in earthen pit ovens over river rocks, crushing them with a 1.5-ton horse-drawn tahona wheel, utilizing a 90-to-118-hour open-air fermentation with wild ambient yeasts in traditional wooden vats, and finally distilling in vintage copper stills.
WEBSITE:
MEZCALS OFFERED:
Espadín Artesanal: The highly approachable foundation of the Mojave lineup, crafted from Espadín agaves that mature under the Oaxacan sun for 5 to 7 years. Distilled in copper, this expression is carefully designed to be exceptionally smooth and beautifully balanced, highlighting the sweet, roasted nature of the agave perfectly intertwined with classic earthy and smoky notes.
Pechuga Artesanal: A celebratory, premium expression built upon a base of 5-to-7-year-old Espadín agave. Following traditional artisanal methods for making pechuga mezcals, this spirit undergoes a special distillation process that adds deep, savory complexity, making it a rich and uniquely flavorful choice for special occasions.
Cuishe Artesanal: Billed by the brand as "the essence of the desert," this premium expression is crafted from wild Cuishe agave that requires 11 to 13 years of maturation to reach peak readiness. Bottled at a robust 47% ABV, it is a mezcal with immense character, delivering an intense, terroir-driven profile filled with striking mineral aromas and lingering, elegant smoky notes that invite the drinker to sit back and truly savor the moment.