Mal Bien
Zacate Limon
Receta Original De Lucio Morales Lopez
The Mal Bien Zacate Limón is an artisanal mezcal based on the original recipe of the late maestro mezcalero Lucio Morales López in San Dionisio Ocotepec, Oaxaca. It is technically a destilado con (distilled with) or abocado (flavored) mezcal.
Lucio Morales López originally created this recipe as a gift for his wife, Agustina, using lemongrass grown on their own property. The production follows these specific steps:
- Agave Base: It starts with 100% Espadín agave (Agave angustifolia).
- Traditional Process: The agave hearts (piñas) are roasted for six days in an underground earthen pit, crushed by a stone Tahona wheel, and fermented with wild yeast in pine tanks.
- First Distillation: The mash is distilled once in a 275-liter copper alembic still.
- Second Distillation (The Twist): Before the second distillation, freshly cut lemongrass (zacate limón) is added directly into the still.
- Final Touch: After the second distillation, the mezcal is rested for about seven days with even more lemongrass macerated in the liquid. This extra step provides a vibrant “pop” of aromatics and a slight yellowish tint
Tasting Profile
- ABV: Generally bottled at 40% (80 proof).
- Flavor: It is described as bright and lively, with strong notes of lemon oil, lemon peel, and fresh herbs, balanced by the mineral and earthy structure of the Espadín.
- Uses: Because of its citrus-forward profile, it is often recommended as a substitute for gin in cocktails like a White Negroni or a Mezcal & Tonic.
