Mezcales de Leyendas Verde Durango, Altiplano Duranguense, Northwest Mexico (750ml)   

José Ventura Gallegos is a 2nd generation mezcalero. He has over 20 years of experience in artisanal mezcal production. He prefers to do mezcal from ‘cenizo’, but also does a remarkable one with ‘masparillo’. Mezcal Durango is produced by Ventura Gallegos in the valleys of Durango from the native agave durangensis that grow on the local slopes. Dry and hot conditions and lava rocks make up the terroir that defines this agave and gives it its unique characteristics. The piñas are harvested once the plant has reached maturity, which takes from 10 to 14 years. These are then roasted in a lava-rock lined pit, open-air fermented, and double-distilled using a copper still with an oak hat. Aroma: Leather, wet clay and grassy fields. Flavors: Buttered popcorn, coriander and stone fruit.