Corte Vetusto Mezcal

Corte Vetusto, which translates to "ancient cut," is a mezcal brand that aims to pay homage to the age-old artisanal production methods of making mezcal. Distilled in Oaxaca, Mexico, this spirit is deeply rooted in tradition, carrying forward the time-honoured techniques passed down through generations of mezcaleros.

The production of Corte Vetusto is a meticulous process. It begins with the careful selection of agave plants. The heart of the agave, or piña, is harvested and then roasted in earthen pits lined with volcanic stones. This roasting process imparts the characteristic smoky flavour inherent to traditional mezcals. After roasting, the agave is crushed using a tahona, a large stone wheel, which releases the juices and fibres from the piña. These are then fermented in open-air wooden vats, relying on wild yeasts from the surrounding environment to aid in fermentation. Following fermentation, the liquid and some of the agave fibres are distilled, typically in copper or clay pot stills.

One of the notable aspects of Corte Vetusto is its commitment to showcasing the individual characteristics of different agave varietals. The brand offers several expressions of mezcal, each produced from a different type of agave, allowing enthusiasts to explore the diverse flavours and profiles inherent to each plant.

Furthermore, Corte Vetusto prides itself on its artisanal approach. The brand collaborates with local Oaxacan mezcaleros, ensuring that the knowledge and skills, cultivated over centuries, continue to play a central role in the production process. This emphasis on tradition over industrialization results in a product that captures the essence of the terroir and the spirit of the community involved in its creation.

The brand's packaging is minimalist, letting the spirit inside speak for itself. Each bottle provides information on the type of agave used, the name of the mezcalero who distilled it, and the village where it was produced, offering transparency and a connection to the land and people behind each bottle.