El Silencio Mezcal is indeed smoky, but it is important to note that the smoke flavor is not overpowering or dominant. Instead, it is subtle and intermingled with other flavors, creating a complex and balanced profile.
When you first taste El Silencio Mezcal, you will notice a soft and smooth mouthfeel. This is due to the careful selection of 10-12 year old agaves, which have had ample time to develop their flavors and sugars. The result is a mezcal that is incredibly enjoyable to sip on its own or to use as a base for cocktails.
As you take your first sip, you'll experience the sweetness of ripe fruits on your palate. This can range from tropical fruits like pineapple and mango to more earthy and stone fruits like peaches and plums. The sweetness adds a pleasant contrast to the smoky notes that come through.
Now, let's talk about the smoke. El Silencio Mezcal is made using traditional methods, including cooking the agave in underground pits filled with hot rocks. This process gives the mezcal its signature smoky character. However, it is important to note that the smoke is not overpowering. Instead, it is well-balanced and integrated into the overall flavor profile.
In my personal experience with El Silencio Mezcal, I found the smokiness to be present, but not overwhelming. It added depth and complexity to the mezcal, complementing the sweetness of the ripe fruits and creating a harmonious flavor profile. I also appreciated how the smoke was not the sole focus of the mezcal, allowing the other flavors to shine through.
It's worth mentioning that the level of smokiness can vary slightly between different batches of El Silencio Mezcal. This is because mezcal production is an artisanal process, and each batch can have its own unique characteristics. However, you can expect a consistently balanced and enjoyable smoky experience from El Silencio.
If you enjoy smoky flavors but prefer them to be more subtle and integrated into the overall taste profile, you will likely appreciate the smokiness of El Silencio Mezcal. Its soft mouthfeel, sweet ripe fruits, and intermingled smoke and spice make it a truly enjoyable and complex spirit.