Tepanal Coyote

The Coyote agave is a rare and enigmatic member of the Americana family, often whispered about by mezcal aficionados for its wild, untamed character. This expression, crafted by first-generation master distiller Rafael "Rafa" Garcia Aragon, is a soulful tribute to Santa Maria Sola's history. Named Tepanal (from Tepanaltepec, or "hill of honeycombs"), this brand honors the 16th-century heritage of Rafa’s community. This Coyote expression, distilled in October 2021, is a true Ancestral treasure, double-distilled in clay pots and fermented in Montezuma Cypress "canoes." With only 120 bottles in existence, it is a fleeting snapshot of Oaxacan tradition. Tasting Notes Aroma: Intense and earthy with a striking complexity. It leads with notes of wet slate and forest floor, followed by a surprising brightness of grapefruit peel and a faint, sweet trail of honeycomb. Palate: Bold and high-proof, yet expertly balanced. The 50% ABV carries deep flavors of roasted nuts, savory herbs, and a distinctive spicy kick reminiscent of peppercorns. The clay pot distillation lends a thick, chalky texture that coats the palate. Finish: Exceptionally long and drying. It leaves behind a resonant smokiness, a touch of dark fruit, and the signature mineral "grip" that only ancestral clay distillation can provide. The Process The Roast: A three-day underground roast in a conical stone oven, caramelizing the complex sugars of the wild Coyote agave. The Milling: Prepared using a wood chipper to break down the dense, fibrous hearts of the plant. The Fermentation: Only natural, ambient yeasts from the air and Montezuma Cypress wood are used, ensuring a profile unique to this specific time and place.