Drink of the Week: Los Vecinos del Campo Mezcal

The Central Valley of Oaxaca boasts one of the most robust concentrations of mezcal production in all of Mexico, and this new release from Sazerac and Casa San Matias is the result of the hard work of 10 mezcal-making families who live there. The first release of Los Vecinos del Campo Mezcal (the name means neighbors of the fields as a nod to the co-op model) uses the espadín variety, one of the most commonly grown agaves in Oaxaca. The hearts of the plants are crushed by stone, naturally fermented in wooden vats and double distilled using copper pot stills, creating a beautifully balanced personality. At 90 proof, it’s incredibly sippable, with flavors of bright citrus peel mellowing into smoked pepper and hay. With an emphasis on sustainable practices and ensuring the producers are compensated fairly, the mezcal is one you can feel good about drinking. $30, klwines.com