Reviews / Zinacantan Papalometl
Review ·
Zinacantan Papalometl
Papalometl – arroqueño's wild cousin, bottled properly
Score: 4.5/5 agaves
- Producer: Zinacantan Agave Spirits
- Maestro: Fabiola Torres Monfil
- Region: Tochimilitzingo, Puebla
- Agave: Papalometl
- ABV: 46%
- Price: $136 ($$$)
Verdict
Papalometl (the wild relative of arroqueño) is an agave that rewards bottlers with nerve, it asks for 46%+ and a long fermentation, and gives back a dense, savory mezcal when both happen. Zinacantán clears the bar. Hunt this alongside Rey Campero's arroqueño or Cuish's papalometl – it's in the same conversation at a gentler price.
Papalometl wants proof. Zinacantán delivers it
Tasting notes
Nose: Dark honey, then dried herbs, warm leather, a cool mineral underside
Palate: Dense and layered at 46-50%, papalometl's signature weight carrying the spirit through a long, savory middle. Bitter-chocolate undertones, no sugary shortcuts
Finish: Warming, chalky. Very long
The bottom line
No reservations. Papalometl done the way the agave wants
Where to buy online
We found this bottle at 3 US retailers. Prices and stock vary – click through to check.
- Astor Wines – $100
- K&L Wines
- Madre Shop – $172
Price check: $136 (2026-07-29).