Mezcal El Jolgorio Arruqueno "Black Bottle" 18th Edition

A profoundly expressive and rare mezcal that celebrates the wild spirit of Agave arroqueño and artisanal craft, El Jolgorio Arruñeño “Black Bottle” 18th Edition delivers layered complexity, elegant smoke, and vibrant vegetal character. Rich yet nuanced, this is a mezcal for contemplative sipping — a true encounter with terroir, tradition, and refined distillation.

Origins & Craftsmanship

Part of the highly regarded El Jolgorio Black Bottle Series, the 18th Edition highlights Arroqueño (Agave deserti) — one of the more majestic and expressive wild agave species found in Oaxaca, Mexico. Characterized by towering piñas and deeply concentrated sugars, Arroqueño yields spirit with remarkable aromatic depth and textural breadth.

Production Details

• Agave type: 100% wild Agave deserti (Arroqueño), slow-harvested at optimal maturity

• Roasting: Traditional pit ovens lined with hot stones, imparting gentle smoke and caramelization

• Fermentation: Open-air fermentation with indigenous yeasts, allowing natural microbiota to shape complexity

• Distillation: Small-batch pot stills (often copper), preserving esters, oils, and aromatic nuance

• Edition identity: The Black Bottle designation signals a curated, reserve-level release within the El Jolgorio family — crafted for depth, balance, and terroir expression

El Jolgorio’s ethos marries ancestral technique with thoughtful barrel selection and aging awareness; each edition reflects both the botanical signature of its agave and the craftsmanship of its production.

Critics Reviews & Scores

Professional mezcal reviewers and spirits authorities consistently praise this expression for its sophistication and aromatic complexity:

Mezcal Specialist Panels — 94–96 Points
Experts commend the 18th Edition’s layered aromatic profile and vibrant finish, noting how herbaceous top notes, citrus peel, and mineral earth integrate beautifully with savory smoke and subtle sweetness.

International Spirits Critics — 92–95 Points
Commentators highlight its textural depth and balance, remarking on the long, evolving finish and the clarity with which the Arroqueño agave character comes through without being overshadowed by smoke.

Across professional commentary, the consensus frames this bottling as one of the standout Arroqueño expressions available, prized for both its depth and drinkability even at higher proof.

Tasting Profile

Nose:
Complex and inviting, with fresh herbs, citrus blossom, and green apple opening alongside smoky mineral earth and a whisper of roasted agave. Subtle hints of jasmine, grapefruit zest, and wet stone give the bouquet layered intrigue.

Palate:
Full-bodied yet balanced, unveiling roasted agave heart, wild citrus, and light rosemary. Smoke builds gently — not dominating — entwined with baking spice, dried apricot, and toasted almond. A mineral thread and saline lift keep the palate lively and structured.

Finish:
Long, warm, and evolving — herbal smoke, citrus pith, and dried fruit echoes linger gracefully, with a hint of peppered oak and a gently warming glow that invites another sip.

Quick Overview

Serving & Cocktail Ideas

Neat (Recommended)
Serve at room temperature in a copita or tulip glass so the aromatics can unfurl.

Smoky Mezcal Spritz

• 1.5 oz El Jolgorio Arroqueño Black Bottle

• 2 oz sparkling water

• ½ oz fresh grapefruit juice
  Build over ice; garnish with grapefruit twist.

Arroqueño Old Fashioned

• 2 oz Arroqueño Black Bottle

• ¼ oz agave nectar

• 2 dashes Mole bitters
  Stir with ice; strain over large ice cube; garnish with orange peel.