Often perceived as versatile, Mezcal is 100% original and authentic to its roots. It is highly revered for its subtly sweet flavors and not-so-subtle hints of smoke, which has created enthusiasm about Mexico’s smoky personality.

Los Danzantes, Spanish for “the Dancers”, and Alipus are made with 7 to 10-year-old Espadin (a type of Agave) which makes up 90% of all Mezcal production in Mexico. After harvest, the agave Pina (agave hearts) are roasted in earthen pit ovens before being crushed and juiced by a horse-drawn crusher. Finally, Los Danzantes Mezcal is fermented using 6 days with native yeast in pine-wood or sabino-wood vats before being bottled.

Los Danzantes Mezcal:

The distillery started in 1997 after the founders tasted Mezcal for the first time and wanted to be part of Mezcal’s revolution in Mexico. Initially, it was only supposed to be a five-year passion project, but it has been 20 years, with no slowing down. Los Danzantes persistently follows the ethos of respecting the artisanal production, the land, and the agave plant and its benefits.

Alipus Mezcal:

Alipús Mezcal originated in 1999 as a ‘social impact project’ that is purposed to support traditional producers and their lands in a number of regions. Today Alipus work with nine mezcal producers in Oaxaca, all of which contribute to the development of rural economies. By focusing on stimulating rural economies and social development in Oaxaca over the past 19 years, Alipus also captured the hearts of thousands of people around the world, preserving the artisanal mezcal tradition.

Los Danzantes and Alipus Mezcal Cocktails to enjoy at home:

With summer around the corner, here are some cocktail recipes to celebrate the smokiness of the Los Danzantes and Alipus Artisanal Mezcal:

Classic Daquiry:

Ingredients:

• 50ml Los Danzantes Reposado
• 25ml Lime Juice
• 20ml Agave

Shake and pour over ice.

Negroni:

Ingredients:

• 50ml Alipus
• 25ml Campari
• 25ml cinzano rosso

Stir and serve over ice. Garnish with orange zest.