Mezcal, like its close relative tequila, can be aged in barrels, adopting the same age classification system which includes blanco, reposado, and anejo. The renowned mezcal brand Ilegal recently unveiled a new reposado variant that underwent an unique secondary aging process in rum barrels, infusing it with a hint of tropical fruits alongside its gentle smoky flavor.

Ilegal Mezcal was launched in 2006 by John Rexer. He initially began smuggling unlabeled mezcal from various Oaxaca producers to his bar in Guatemala around 2004, soon recognizing the potential of this then lesser-known agave spirit. His insight was correct, as the category continues to expand, although it hasn’t reached the popularity of tequila. While both spirits originate from agave and are confined to certain Mexican states as per government regulations, tequila is exclusively made from the Blue Weber agave, whereas mezcal can be crafted from many agave varieties, with espadin being most frequently used.

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Almost exactly a year ago, drinks corporation Bacardi acquired Ilegal in a deal worth more than $100 million after a years-long distribution partnership, so it makes sense that this new release would involve rum barrels. The specifics are as follows: The mezcal was initially aged in American white oak barrels for four to six months, a typical amount of time for a reposado expression. It was then transferred into casks that previously held eight-year-old rum (Bacardi Ocho, according to the brand) for up to two additional months in Oaxaca. The mezcal can be sipped neat or used in cocktails, and is said to have notes of tropical fruit, spice, caramel, butterscotch, and agave on the palate.

Ilegal Reposado Caribbean Cask Finish is a limited-edition release, although not nearly as scarce as the 7 Year Añejo that launched in 2022. Just 50 bottles were made available of that exceptional spirit, a seven-year-old mezcal that was aged in just 35 French oak barrels resulting in a peppery, smoky, oaky, luscious expression. Caribbean Cask Finish is more widely available (and much cheaper at about $46 per bottle), and will be available at select retailers nationwide in the coming weeks. In the meantime, you can find the rest of the Ilegal lineup available to purchase at ReserveBar now.

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