Ilegal Mezcal Reposado Espadín

Ilegal Mezcal Reposado is a beautifully balanced expression that bridges traditional Oaxacan mezcal and refined barrel-aged elegance. With a rich backbone of smoky agave and a softly rounded oak influence, it offers both approachability for newcomers and satisfying complexity for seasoned mezcal drinkers — ideal neat, with a splash of water, or in elevated cocktails.

Origins & Craftsmanship

Ilegal Mezcal Reposado is produced in Oaxaca, Mexico, drawing on generations of mezcal making tradition. Crafted from 100% Espadín agave, the piñas are slowly roasted in underground earthen pits lined with volcanic rock, lending the spirit its characteristic smoky depth. After fermentation with natural yeasts, the mezcal is double distilled in copper pot stills to capture purity and nuance.

Following distillation, this expression is rested for a period in oak barrels (typically American oak), which tempers the raw intensity of juventud mezcal and introduces layers of wood-derived sweetness and spice. The result is a harmonious blend of smoky agave earthiness and gentle aged complexity — without veering into the heaviness that can accompany longer barrel time.

Tasting Profile

Nose:
Warm and inviting, with smoked roasted agave at the forefront, followed by honeyed citrus, toasted oak, and subtle caramel. Gentle herbal notes and a hint of sea salt add intrigue.

Palate:
Medium-bodied and richly textured, with spicy smoke, roasted agave, dried apricot, and light vanilla, underscored by oak spice and gentle cinnamon. The oak influence rounds the smoke and highlights the agave character without overpowering it.

Finish:
Smooth and lingering, with an elegant balance of smoke, oak warmth, and soft citrus zest, leaving a satisfying impression of depth and finesse.

Quick Overview

Cocktail Recipes

Reposado Neat or With Water (Recommended)
Serve in a snifter or mezcal glass at room temperature; add a few drops of water to open the aromatics and temper the oak edges.

Smoky Paloma

• 1.5 oz Ilegal Mezcal Reposado

• 2 oz fresh grapefruit juice

• 0.5 oz lime juice

• 0.5 oz agave nectar
  Shake with ice and fine strain into an ice-filled highball glass; top with soda water. Garnish with a grapefruit slice.

Oaxacan Old-Fashioned

• 2 oz Ilegal Mezcal Reposado

• 0.25 oz agave syrup

• 2 dashes Angostura bitters
  Stir with ice; strain into a rocks glass over a large ice cube. Garnish with an orange twist.