Xicala Anejo Espadin Mezcal 750ML

Xicala Anejo Espadin Mezcal 750ML is a 100% espadin agave mezcal aged at least 12 months in dual-barrel cooperage, bottled at 40% ABV (80 proof). It earned 94 points from Tastings.com in 2022 and a Gold Medal from the Beverage Tasting Institute, placing it among the highest-rated añejo mezcals available.

Quick Facts: ABV: 40%  |  Origin: Valley of Tlacolula, Oaxaca, Mexico  |  Añejo (12+ months)  |  Distillery: Destileria Tlacolula

Production & Heritage

Destileria Tlacolula operates in the Valley of Tlacolula, one of Oaxaca's most established mezcal-producing sub-regions. The distillery follows traditional production methods, roasting and fermenting 100% espadin agave before distillation. What distinguishes the añejo expression is its aging regimen: the spirit rests for a minimum of 12 months in a combination of American oak and French Limousin barrels — an unusual dual-cooperage approach in a category where most producers rely solely on American oak. The Limousin influence introduces tannin structure and subtle confectionery depth that sets the liquid apart from single-barrel-aged competitors.

Tasting Notes

Aroma: The nose opens with mocha flan and nougat, followed by dried dates and spiced almonds. There is a warm, toasted quality that signals the dual-barrel aging without masking the underlying agave character.

Taste: The entry is rich and slightly sweet, with grilled pineapple taking the lead on the front palate. At mid-palate, layers of vanilla and mocha emerge, balanced by a gentle mineral undertone. The espadin's earthy smokiness remains present but takes a supporting role behind the oak-driven flavors.

Finish: A tingle of pink pepper and mineral notes gives way to drying cinnamon and clove spice. The finish is medium-long, with the Limousin tannins providing structure that holds the warmth in place.

How to Drink Xicala Añejo

Sipping neat at room temperature allows the full interplay between agave smoke, mocha sweetness, and barrel spice to develop. A single large ice cube opens the vanilla and pineapple notes without diluting the finish. For cocktails, Xicala Añejo works well in these:

• Oaxacan Old Fashioned — the mocha and cinnamon notes amplify the cocktail's bittersweet backbone.
• Mezcal Manhattan — the French oak tannin structure pairs naturally with sweet vermouth and aromatic bitters.
• Smoke & Honey — grilled pineapple and vanilla flavors complement honey syrup and fresh lemon without being overpowered.

Best For

• Gifting a mezcal enthusiast who has explored joven and reposado expressions
• After-dinner sipping alongside dark chocolate or dessert
• Building a curated mezcal collection that showcases different aging styles
• Introducing whiskey drinkers to aged mezcal through familiar oak and spice flavors

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Xicala Añejo taste like? Xicala Añejo delivers a rich palate of grilled pineapple, vanilla, and mocha, framed by cinnamon-clove spice and a pink pepper mineral finish. The dual-barrel aging softens the espadin's smokiness and foregrounds dessert-like sweetness.

How does Xicala Añejo compare to Ilegal Mezcal Añejo? Both are premium añejo mezcals from Oaxaca aged in a similar timeframe, but Xicala's use of French Limousin barrels alongside American oak creates a more tannic, confectionery-forward profile. Ilegal Añejo leans more toward caramel and dried fruit with a rounder mouthfeel, while Xicala shows greater spice complexity and mineral structure.

Is Xicala Añejo good for sipping neat? Yes — the 40% ABV and extended barrel aging make it very approachable neat, with enough depth and complexity to reward slow, contemplative sipping.

Where is Xicala Añejo made? Xicala Añejo is produced at Destileria Tlacolula, located in the Valley of Tlacolula within the state of Oaxaca, Mexico — a region widely regarded as the heartland of mezcal production.

What foods pair well with Xicala Añejo? Dark chocolate truffles complement the mocha and vanilla notes. Mole negro mirrors the spirit's layered spice complexity. Grilled stone fruits echo the pineapple sweetness. Aged Manchego or Gouda balances the cinnamon-clove dryness. Pecan pie aligns with the nougat and toasted nut aromas.

What sizes does Xicala Añejo come in? Xicala Anejo Espadin Mezcal is available in the standard 750ml bottle size.

Is Xicala Añejo worth the price? Xicala Añejo positions as a premium añejo mezcal, and its 94-point Tastings.com score, Gold Medal from the Beverage Tasting Institute, and distinctive dual-cooperage aging justify its place in the upper tier of the category.

Why Xicala Añejo?

The dual-barrel aging in both American oak and French Limousin is the defining production choice here — it is uncommon in the mezcal category and directly responsible for the spirit's unusual tannin structure and confectionery depth. A 94-point score from Tastings.com and a 90-point rating from Wine Enthusiast confirm that this approach translates into the glass, not just the marketing. Among añejo mezcals at its tier, Xicala stands out for bringing barrel complexity without burying the espadin agave character beneath oak. For drinkers seeking an aged mezcal that bridges the gap between smoky tradition and oak-driven richness, this is a serious and well-documented contender.