9 Guardianes Comiteco Añejo

Verdict

9 Guardianes is one of the few US-available comiteco producers. Comiteco is a Chiapas spirit distilled from agave atrovirens – technically a different category from mezcal but drinking as a close cousin, and the aged version at 42% benefits from oak time because the base agave is softer than Oaxacan angustifolia. Interesting more than destination-worthy, but useful as an introduction to a regional category most drinkers have never encountered. No community consensus recorded; we come in at 3.

Tasting notes

Nose: Warm oak with honey, faint pine

Palate: The aging adds structure to comiteco's softer base at 42%. Different from mezcal; recognizable as an agave spirit

Finish: Medium-long, warm, slightly sweet

The bottom line

A curiosity worth noting, with real production behind it