Papalote Mezcal
ABOUT:
Papalote Mezcal is famously recognized for its collaboration with Cheech Marin (of Cheech and Chong), who serves as a partner and the brand's chief ambassador. Merging the mystical heritage of mezcal with vibrant contemporary culture, every bottle features distinctive, colorful artwork curated directly from Cheech’s own world-renowned collection of Chicano art. Adhering to time-honored artisanal methods, the master mezcaleros bake the agave hearts in underground stone pits using smoky ocote and mesquite wood for five days before naturally fermenting and distilling the spirit. The result is a highly approachable, smooth portfolio that Cheech affectionately describes as "tequila, but with tattoos and piercings.
WEBSITE:
https://papalotemezcal.com/
MEZCALS OFFERED:
Papalote Espadín (42% ABV): The brand’s highly versatile, introductory expression crafted from the heart of the Espadín maguey in Oaxaca. Designed to be a lively "party mezcal," it delivers a smooth, lightly smoky flavor profile enriched with elegant herbal and citrus notes, finishing with hints of sweet potatoes, hot red pepper, and caramel. The bottle features the "Koo-Koo Man," a stylized image inspired by a glass sculpture from artists Einar and Jamex de la Torre.
Papalote Cupreata (46% ABV): Handcrafted in the mountainous region of Guerrero, this expression is distilled exclusively from 100% wild Cupreata agave using a guarded family recipe passed down through generations. It produces a rich, highly consistent, and lightly smoked flavor that is profoundly complex, intriguing the palate with deep earthy tones and elegant botanical notes.
Papalote Mexicano (45% ABV): A unique, highly flavorful ensamble (blend) created by cooking, grinding, and distilling two distinct agaves simultaneously: 70% wild Maguey Mexicano (Agave rhodacantha, locally known as dobadaan) and 30% Espadín. The rare Mexicano agave contributes a beautifully bright, floral, and vibrant tasting experience. The label showcases "Señor Mexicano," a cheerful and eccentric design created by Chicano artist Marcel Alcalá.