Real Minero is wildly considered one of the finest mezcal producers. The Mendoza family has farmed Agave for decades but they've been distilling since the 70s and become one of Mexico's most sought after producers. Using clay pot stills, they produce one of the cleanest highest quality products around, but only about 300 liters per month so stocks are tight. It's certified organic, Oaxacan owned and absolutely delicious. Father, Lorenzo Angeles Mendoza, is the brawn, while Graciela Angeles Carreño heart and soul (and of course the brains) of the operation. She's a renowned mezcal expert and one of the regions most beloved champions. While she's definitely in business, she's well aware that the increased interest in Oaxacan Mezcal is both a blessing and a curse for this delicate artisanal-agricultural product and region. That is why they've taken extreme care to limit growth and expand into markets slowly while keeping quality high, instead of relying on their good name to push out product as fast as possible. The largo has a unique character that sets it apart from other Karwinski variants (like Cuishe, Madrecuishe, and Barril). It shows wild savory notes, salty spices and more pommace fruit than tropical. Very high acid and textural, it's got one of the most unique mouthfeels of any spirit I've tasted, waves of flavors ripple across the palate, almost as if you'd consumed a living thing. It may not be alive, but this stuff has got a soul to spare without a doubt.