Union Mezcal Uno 750ML is a joven mezcal blending Espadín and Cirial agave, bottled at 40% ABV (80 proof) in a 750ml format. Awarded 92 points by Wine Enthusiast, this expression stands out for its cooperative production model involving over 50 mezcalero families across Oaxaca, Mexico. Quick Facts: ABV: 40% | Origin: San Baltazar, Oaxaca, Mexico | Joven (Unaged) | NOM: O174X Production & Heritage Union Mezcal sources agave from a network of more than 50 families of mezcaleros throughout Oaxaca, a cooperative structure designed to preserve traditional techniques while supporting sustainable livelihoods and fair wages. The Espadín and Cirial agave plants—matured between 8 and 14 years before harvest—are roasted in earthen pit ovens, crushed by tahona stone, and fermented using naturally occurring wild yeasts. The liquid is then double-distilled in copper pot stills, yielding a clean yet characterful spirit that retains the smoky signature of pit-roasted agave without overwhelming the palate. Tasting Notes Aroma: Sweet pear and ripe apple greet the nose first, followed by a layer of light woodsmoke and herbal undertones. A faint tropical quality—reminiscent of lychee and banana—adds complexity beneath the fruit. Taste: Smoke arrives immediately on the palate but remains restrained, giving way to roasted agave, lemon zest, and black pepper at the entry. Mid-palate, a touch of vanilla sweetness emerges alongside mint and wet earth. The overall impression is balanced and approachable, with the Cirial agave lending a subtle herbal dimension that distinguishes this blend from single-varietal Espadín mezcals. Finish: Smooth and medium in length, with sweet fruit and gentle smoke lingering together. A mild jalapeño-like warmth surfaces at the very end, adding a savory farewell. How to Drink Union Uno Neat or with a single ice cube is the most revealing way to experience the Espadín-Cirial interplay; a few drops of water open up the tropical fruit notes further. For cocktails, try a Mezcal Paloma—the grapefruit soda and lime amplify the citrus zest already present in the spirit. A Naked & Famous (equal parts mezcal, Aperol, yellow Chartreuse, and lime) leverages the herbal backbone of Union Uno to excellent effect. In a Mezcal Mule, the ginger beer highlights the peppery finish while the smoke adds depth that standard tequila versions lack. Best For Introducing a tequila drinker to the world of mezcal Building a home mezcal cocktail bar on a reliable foundation Gifting someone who values socially conscious, small-batch spirits Serving alongside a Mexican-inspired tasting menu Frequently Asked Questions What does Union Uno taste like? Union Uno leads with balanced smoke and roasted agave, layered with sweet pear, lemon zest, black pepper, and a subtle vanilla sweetness. The finish adds a mild jalapeño-like warmth that keeps it interesting without being aggressive. How does Union Uno compare to Del Maguey Vida? Both are entry-level Oaxacan joven mezcals, but Union Uno blends Espadín with Cirial agave rather than using Espadín alone, which introduces additional herbal and tropical complexity. Union Uno is also notably described as closer in profile to a blanco tequila with added smoke, making it a softer entry point for mezcal newcomers. Is Union Uno good for beginners? Yes—its approachable smoke level and fruit-forward character make it one of the gentler introductions to mezcal. Reviewers frequently note its similarity to blanco tequila with a light smoky accent, which eases the transition for those new to the category. Where is Union Uno made? Union Uno is produced in San Baltazar, Oaxaca, Mexico, under NOM O174X. The mezcal is the product of a cooperative network spanning over 50 mezcalero families throughout the Oaxacan region. What foods pair well with Union Uno? Grilled shrimp tacos complement the smoke and citrus notes; fresh ceviche echoes the spirit's tropical fruit qualities; dark chocolate with chili mirrors its peppery finish; roasted pork with mole benefits from the herbal backbone; and aged Oaxacan cheese balances the sweetness of the agave. What sizes does Union Uno come in? The standard offering is a 750ml bottle, which is the most widely available format. Is Union Uno worth the price? Union Uno positions as an entry-level to mid-range mezcal, and its 92-point Wine Enthusiast score suggests strong quality relative to its price tier. The dual-agave blend and traditional tahona production give it a level of complexity that punches above many single-varietal competitors at a similar level. Why Union Uno? The Espadín-Cirial blend is an uncommon pairing in the entry-level mezcal space, where most bottles rely on Espadín alone. That distinction earned Union Uno 92 points from Wine Enthusiast and delivers a flavor profile that bridges the gap between tequila's accessibility and mezcal's smoky depth. The cooperative model—directly supporting more than 50 families of traditional mezcaleros—adds genuine ethical substance behind the label. For drinkers looking for a versatile, traditionally made mezcal that works equally well neat or in cocktails, Union Uno delivers measurable quality at its price point.
