Antigua, Guatemala – Ilegal Mezcal is rapidly gaining recognition as a beacon of quality and tradition in the artisanal mezcal landscape. Founded in 2006 by John Rexer, the brand’s journey began with a simple premise: delivering exceptional mezcal to his renowned bar, Café No Sé. Today, Ilegal stands as a testament to that initial commitment, now bolstered by Bacardi’s ownership since 2023, yet retaining its core values and unique flavor profile.
A Legacy of Innovation
What sets Ilegal apart is its dedication to preserving the authentic essence of mezcal production. While many brands lean heavily into smoky notes, Ilegal’s focus is on showcasing the pure, natural character of the espadín agave. This approach, championed by global brand ambassador Gilbert Marquez, emphasizes the complex and vibrant flavors found within the agave itself.
Crafting Mezcal with Time-Honored Techniques
Ilegal’s production process is deeply rooted in tradition, relying on techniques that have been perfected over generations. The brand’s commitment to these methods is palpable in every bottle. Key elements include:
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Hand-Harvesting:
Agave piñas are carefully hand-harvested.
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Stone-Lined Pits:
Roasting occurs in traditional stone-lined earthen pits, imparting a subtle warmth without overwhelming the agave.
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Horse-Drawn Mill (Tahona):
Crushing is done using a horse-drawn mill called a tahona, a method that delicately extracts the juice.
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Open-Air Fermentation:
Fermentation utilizes airborne yeast in an open-air setting, allowing natural flavors to develop.
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Double Distillation:
Distillation occurs in traditional copper stills, preserving the integrity of the spirit.
These processes are overseen by the Hernandez brothers, fourth-generation mezcaleros from Oaxaca, who learned their craft from their father, Silverio. Their expertise is central to the brand’s success.
Flavorful Expressions
Ilegal offers three core expressions – Joven, Reposado, and Añejo – each delivering a distinctive experience. The Joven expression is a vibrant introduction to the agave, while the Reposado (aged six months in charred American oak) and Añejo (aged 13 months) showcase further complexity. Gilbert Marquez recommends enjoying Ilegal Mezcal neat, alongside an orange slice and worm salt, or incorporating it into familiar cocktails like margaritas or palomas. He often suggests introducing newcomers to mezcal with these approachable options.
Discover Ilegal Mezcal
Ilegal Mezcal’s journey from smuggled supply to award-winning brand demonstrates the power of dedication to craft and tradition. It’s a spirit that offers a genuine taste of Oaxaca and a compelling entry point into the world of mezcal.
