Hacienda de Banuelos Mezcal 'Tepemete' Silvestre Joven, Zacatecas, Mexico

From the rugged hills of Zacatecas emerges Hacienda de Bañuelos Tepemete Silvestre Mezcal Joven, a spirit born of the wild, shaped by earth and fire, and guided by the wisdom of generations. Distilled from the elusive wild maguey Tepemete, this mezcal captures the raw essence of the highlands where the agave grows, thriving in rocky soils and intense sunlight. Every drop reflects the artistry of the Bañuelos family, whose century-old craft bridges the spirit of Mexico’s past with its vibrant present.

Product Details:

• Agave Variety: 100% Wild Tepemete (Agave angustifolia var. tepemete)
• Elevation: High-altitude hills of southern Zacatecas
• Oven: Underground brick oven, roasted for 72 hours with oak and mesquite
• Milling: Stone tahona
• Fermentation: Natural fermentation with wild yeasts in open-air wooden vats
• Distillation: Double distilled in copper stills
• Resting: Joven (unaged)
• ABV: 47.6%
• Certification: Artisanal, additive-free, small-batch production

Sensory Description:

On the nose, Tepemete Silvestre reveals a medley of wild agave, damp earth, and sun-warmed stone, accented by bright citrus zest, green herbs, and a whisper of smoke. The palate unfolds with remarkable balance, vegetal and savory at first, giving way to roasted peppers, minerality, and a touch of sweetness from slow-cooked agave. Subtle layers of citrus, mesquite, and peppery spice create a long, evolving finish that lingers with quiet smokiness and a trace of desert air.

Awards & Accolades:

• Gold Medal – San Francisco World Spirits Competition (2021)
• Best Mezcal – World Tequila Awards (2021)
• Platinum Medal – SIP Awards (2021)

Distiller's Background:

Founded in 1915, Hacienda de Bañuelos stands as a cornerstone of Zacatecas’ mezcal tradition. The fourth-generation Bañuelos family revived artisanal mezcal production in this historic region, crafting spirits that express both the rugged terroir and the deep-rooted culture of northern Mexico. Their Tepemete Silvestre is the first wild Tepemete mezcal from Zacatecas ever exported, marking a milestone in the preservation of rare agave species and ancient distilling methods. With a dedication to sustainability, authenticity, and regional character, the Bañuelos family continues to define the artistry of mezcal in its purest form.

Serving Suggestions:

Best enjoyed neat at 18–20°C in a copita or tulip glass, this mezcal shines when savored slowly to appreciate its depth and balance. Its layered minerality and smoky complexity pair beautifully with grilled seafood, roasted peppers, smoked duck, or aged cheeses. For a creative twist, use it as the foundation for a Mezcal Negroni or a simple Paloma to showcase its bright, herbal notes.

Hacienda de Bañuelos Tepemete Silvestre Mezcal Joven is more than a drink; it’s a tribute to persistence and place. Born of wild agave and ancestral wisdom, it reflects the rugged grace of Zacatecas and the timeless bond between craft and land. Each sip feels like rediscovering an ancient secret, one whispered in smoke, stone, and spirit.