Spirit less ordinary, Zacal, is a new independent artisanal mezcal brand born from the wild spirit of Michoacán. Zacal’s two expressions, a delicate Manso Sahauyo and a complex Ensamble, are both triple distilled and crafted from the region’s unique agave varietals and volcanic terroir, offering a fresh take on mezcal and inviting exploration of the lesser known region.
Zacal is an artisanal mezcal launched by four friends with a passion for the spirit in partnership with fellow co-founder and third-generation Mezcalero, Milton Ochoa.
A UNIQUE TERROIR
In a market dominated by Oaxacan mezcals, Zacal emerges from the untamed spirit of Michoacán, Mexico – a hidden gem known as the ‘soul of Mexico’ renowned for its deep cultural heritage.
Crafted from the region’s unique agave varieties, Zacal is hand-distilled from organically-produced magueys – Bruto and Manso – and roasted with local volcanic rock in an underground oven at the family-run Vinata.
As with wine, terroir heavily influences a mezcal’s flavour profile. The volcanic soil and rocks surrounding the Vinata infuse the agave with elevated nutrients, particularly potassium, intensifying the sweetness and flavour complexity. As a result, Zacal showcases a distinct minerality, intensifying the sweetness and flavour complexity with a herbaceous, floral symphony.
A SMOOTH, DELICATE YET INTRIGUING MEZCAL
Zacal is crafted in the hills of Sahuayo, Michoacán at Milton’s family run vinata. The artisanal production process utilises an intriguing technique involving a small chimney to draw away the smoke, reducing the characteristic smokiness of many mezcals and amplifying the other flavours.
While most mezcals are double distilled, Zacal is triple distilled which concentrates the flavour, and also contributes to a reduced smokiness
The result is softer, smoother and more accessible mezcal that is perfect for mixed serves, cocktails, and drinkers who are new to the mezcal category.
The artisanal process doesn’t end at the liquid. Zacal is passionate about art in all its forms and its bespoke bottle design is a work of art in itself. The hand-blown, recycled glass bottles and the Ensamble’s hand-crafted copper stopper were all crafted by local Michoacán craftspersons and reflect the rugged beauty of the region’s landscape.
THE MEZCALS
Manso Sahuayo
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This accessible mezcal is made with 100% maguey Manso De Sahuayo, an organic semi-wild ‘Cenizo’ agave that is harvested for 3-5 years. It is a delicate and balanced mezcal with notes of sweet almond and citrus, with a whisper of smoke. Its gentle nature makes it perfect for cocktail-making and those who are new to the Mezcal category. It was awarded the highest accolade of Master at The Global Spirit Masters and Double Gold at the International Spirits Challenge 2025
Ensamble
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A herbaceous and floral symphony, born from the union of Manso De Sahuayo and Maguey Bruto, which is wild ‘inaequidens’ agave that matures after 8-10 years, growing to 5 feet high and 11 feet wide (it is so called Bruto due to its complex nature when it comes to harvest and low yield) Zacal Ensamble is crafted for the mezcal connoisseur. Perfect for sipping, it lingers on the palate with a lightly smoked finish. It was awarded Master at The Global Spirit Masters and named best Mezcal with a Trophy award at the International Spirits Challenge
SERVE SUGGESTIONS
Zacal is the perfect choice for an elevated cocktail experience. It can be incorporated into classic cocktails such as Negronis, Margaritas or Old Fashioneds to give them a less ordinary twist. Alternatively, for a more unique sipping experience, enjoy Zacal in one of their signature serves