Craneo Organic Mezcal
Craneo Organic Mezcal is a 42% ABV (84 proof), 750mL mezcal from Cráneo, the mezcal created in 2016 by David Ravandi, founder of 123 Tequila. It is made from 100% organic Espadín agave grown at about 5,600 feet in Santiago Matatlán, Oaxaca — described in brand text as a single-estate artisanal mezcal, handcrafted by local maestro mezcaleros: the fully mature piñas are roasted in a charred pit oven, crushed with a stone tahona, naturally fermented, and double distilled in small batches in copper pot stills. The agaves are USDA- and EU-certified organic. It is available to order online at Del Mesa Liquor.
- ABV: 42% (84 proof)
- Size: 750mL
- Style: Artisanal mezcal — Espadín
- Agave: 100% Espadín, certified organic (USDA and EU per the brand's Mezcal Reviews page), grown at about 5,600 ft
- Production: Pit-oven roasting, stone tahona crush, natural fermentation, double distilled in copper pot stills, small batches (brand description)
- Origin: Santiago Matatlán, Oaxaca, Mexico
- Producer: Cráneo — created 2016 by David Ravandi of 123 Tequila / 123 Spirits
A Skull, a Goddess, and Matatlán Espadín
The skull on the Cráneo label comes, by the brand's account, from Mictecacíhuatl, the Aztec goddess described as guardian of the bones — a symbol of strength on a bottle meant as a celebration of life. Underneath it is classic Matatlán craft: estate Espadín at altitude, pit fire, stone wheel, copper stills, and a deliberately restrained hand with the smoke. See the maker's range on the 123 Tequila vendor page or browse the spirits shelf for more agave.
Tasting Notes
From Drinkhacker's review (grade A-): Nose: Sweet barbecue smoke and citrus. Palate: Light and silky — orange and grapefruit peel, green banana and spun sugar over modest, sweet smokiness. Finish: Hints of iodine and anise.
How to Enjoy
Sip it neat to follow the smoke-to-citrus arc — the review that defined its profile calls it balanced and restrained versus heavier mezcals — or use that restraint in a mezcal margarita or an Oaxacan old fashioned, where it seasons rather than overwhelms.
Frequently Asked Questions
What agave is Craneo made from? 100% Espadín, certified organic (USDA and EU, per the brand's Mezcal Reviews page), grown at about 5,600 feet in Santiago Matatlán, Oaxaca.
How smoky is it? Modest and sweet rather than heavy — Drinkhacker's review describes a balanced, restrained smoke under citrus and green banana.
How strong is it? 42% ABV (84 proof) in this 750mL bottle.
Oaxaca Espadín with the smoke kept in balance — order Craneo Organic Mezcal from Del Mesa Liquor in San Diego, CA.