Zacal, a new independent mezcal brand born from the wild spirit of Michoacán, Mexico is debuting in the UK. Zacal’s two expressions, a complex Ensamble (RRP £119.50, 50% abv) and a delicate Manso Sahauyo (RRP £69.50, 45% abv), are crafted from the region’s unique agave varietals and volcanic terroir, offering a fresh take on the familiar and inviting exploration of the lesser known region. Both expressions were today awarded the highest accolade of Double Gold at the International Spirits Challenge.
Zacal is an artisanal mezcal launched by four friends with a passion for the spirit in partnership with third-generation Mezcalero, Milton Ochoa. It is hand-distilled from organically-produced magueys – Bruto and Manso – and roasted with local volcanic rock in an underground oven at the family-run Vinata. It utilises an intriguing technique involving a small chimney to draw away the smoke, reducing the characteristic smokiness of many mezcals and amplifying the other flavours. Combined with using a triple distillation approach, that helps reduce the smokiness, creating a smooth but incredibly complex liquid.
Available for both the on-and-off-trade, Zacal will also focus on ‘direct to consumer’ (D2C), utilising the founders’ experience working in start-ups and tech. Co-founders include: Phil Clayton, formerly Head of B2B at Meta; Andrew Maidment, former Wines of Argentina Europe director and advisor to Gaucho Restaurants; Ian McCaig, founder of leading fitness app, Fiit and Cri Osborne, former bartender and founder of start-up Front Foot.
Phil Clayton, co-founder of Zacal, says: “We are all incredibly passionate about mezcal and wanted to bring a fresh take on the spirit that respects provenance and process, but also delivers a twist on the familiar. Known as the soul of Mexico, Michoacán is wilder and less gentrified than Oaxaca with a deep cultural heritage and it was this untamed spirit that drew us to the region.
“Michoacán’s distinctive terroir yields the two agave species used in our mezcals, with Manso Sahuayo, being unique to the region. The volcanic soil and rocks surrounding the Vinata infuse the agave with elevated nutrients, particularly potassium, intensifying the sweetness and flavour complexity. As the spirit less ordinary, Zacal invites drinkers to discover Michoacán’s essence, one sip at a time and we can promise a completely unique experience for agave fans”.
Zacal is launching with two expressions:
Manso (RRP £69.50, 45% ABV, 70cl) This accessible mezcal is made with 100% maguey Manso De Sahauyo, that is harvested after 7-10 years. It is a delicate and balanced mezcal with notes of sweet almond, citrus and a whisper of smoke. Despite the light smokiness, it holds its flavour and is perfect for cocktail-making and those who are new to the mezcal category.
Ensamble (RRP £119.50, 50% ABV, 70cl), born from the union of magueys Manso De Sahauyo and Bruto, which is wild ‘inaequidens’ agave that matures after 15-20 years, growing to heights of 40-50 feet high when flowering. Zacal’s Ensamble is crafted for the mezcal connoisseur. Perfect for sipping, it lingers on the palate with a lightly smoked finish.
Zacal Mezcal is available for the on and off-trade from now. It will be available to buy directly from www.zacalmezcal.com
