Reviews / Farolito Horno
Review ·
Farolito Horno
Nochixtlán clay-pot horno – the sleeper of the Mixteca
Score: 4.7/5 agaves
- Producer: Farolito Mezcal
- Maestro: Alberto Montes
- Region: Nochixtlan, Oaxaca
- ABV: 44.84%
- Price: $180 ($$$$)
Verdict
Mixteca clay-pot mezcal is the quietest argument in the category, and Farolito is how you make it. Alberto Montes's Horno deserves to be cited in the same breath as Real Minero and Lalocura – different region, same rigor. Few clay-pot bottles ask more strongly to be found. The fact that it hovers under 45% is a feature, not a ceiling; clay pot earns its proof back in texture.
Mixteca clay-pot mezcal is the quietest argument in the category, and Farolito is how you make it
Tasting notes
Nose: Cooked maize, then damp clay, dried fig, black pepper
Palate: The clay-pot texture is front and center – the Horno has a viscosity most 45% bottles can't muster. Mixteca minerality, a cooked-sweet core, and a savory dry-down that just keeps unfolding
Finish: Stony, warming
The bottom line
Shortlist it. Near best-in-class for clay pot
Where to buy online
We found this bottle at 2 US retailers. Prices and stock vary – click through to check.
- Old Town Tequila – $180
- K&L Wines
Price check: $180 (2026-07-29).