Gem and Bolt Mezcal is made with a simple and pure combination of ingredients that result in a truly exceptional spirit. The main component of this mezcal is 100% Espadin agave, which is carefully selected for its quality and flavor. The agave plants are grown in the rich and fertile soils of Oaxaca, Mexico, where they develop their unique characteristics over the course of several years.
To create Gem and Bolt Mezcal, the mature agave plants are harvested by hand and their leaves are removed, revealing the heart or “piña” of the plant. These piñas are then roasted in traditional underground pits, which are heated with wood and stones, giving the mezcal its distinctive smoky flavor. This roasting process also helps to break down the complex sugars in the agave, making them more accessible for fermentation.
After roasting, the agave piñas are crushed to extract their juice, which is then fermented using naturally occurring wild yeast. This fermentation process takes place in open-air wooden vats, allowing the wild yeast to interact with the agave juice and contribute to the mezcal's unique flavors and aromas. The fermentation can take several days, during which time the sugars in the agave juice are converted into alcohol.
Once fermentation is complete, the liquid is distilled in copper stills by Ignacio Martinez, a fourth-generation Maestro Mezcalero. The distillation process is carried out slowly and carefully, allowing for the separation of alcohol from impurities and the concentration of flavors. The result is a smooth and complex mezcal with a rich depth of character.
In addition to the agave, Gem and Bolt Mezcal also contains fresh mountain spring water, which is used throughout the production process to dilute and balance the spirit. This pure water source contributes to the overall quality and purity of the mezcal.
Lastly, Gem and Bolt Mezcal is infused with organic damiana, a flowering herb native to Mexico. Damiana adds a subtle and herbal complexity to the mezcal, complementing the natural flavors of the agave. This infusion is done carefully and in small batches, ensuring that the damiana enhances the mezcal without overpowering it.
The ingredients in Gem and Bolt Mezcal are simple and carefully chosen to create a spirit of exceptional quality and taste. The combination of 100% Espadin agave, fresh mountain spring water, and organic damiana, along with the traditional production methods, result in a mezcal that is truly unique and worth savoring.