Cuish Mezcal Artesenal, Cuishe (48%, 70cl)

Cuish Mezcal Artesanal Cuishe is an authentic wild harvested mezcal produced in the Central Valleys of Oaxaca, Mexico. Cuish is an traditional producer collective dedicated to preserving rural mezcal culture, working directly with traditional maestro mezcaleros across various micro regions. This expression is distilled exclusively from wild harvested maguey Cuishe, a distinct sub species belonging to the Agave karwinskii family that takes twelve to fifteen years to reach maturity.

Agave karwinskii grows with an unusual, tree like cylindrical trunk structure, lifting its central core high off the ground. Because the heart of the plant contains a higher proportion of fibrous woody stalk compared to water rich tissue, spirits distilled from Cuishe lean away from heavy tropical sweetness, yielding a distinct profile dominated by dry minerality, green vegetation, and intense herbal structure.

The production follows strict traditional artisanal methods. The harvested Cuishe stalks and piñas are cooked in an underground conical stone pit fueled by oak wood for several days. After cooking, the agave is crushed using a traditional horse drawn stone tahona mill. Fermentation takes place naturally in open top pine wood vats utilizing airborne wild yeasts. The fermented mash and fibers undergo double distillation in traditional copper alembic stills. Bottled at 48% ABV without chill filtration, water dilution, or additives, it offers a pure representation of Oaxacan terroir and wild agave character.

The profile is structured, mineral driven, and intensely botanical with soft herbaceous undertones. The nose opens with aromas of wet slate, dried grass, green pepper, and subtle mesquite smoke, accompanied by hints of citrus peel and damp soil. On the palate, the texture is crisp and focused, delivering savory flavors of roasted jalapeño, fresh herbs, lime leaf, and dry wood spice, complemented by a persistent chalky minerality. The finish is long, dry, and clean, leaving lingering trails of light campfire smoke, herbal bitterness, and bright mineral ash.