Mezcal Vago Elote by Hijos de Aquilino Garcia
Mezcal Vago Elote by Hijos de Aquilino Garcia is a joven mezcal artesanal bottled at 49.9% ABV (99.8 proof) in a 750mL bottle — a 100% espadín mezcal from Temo and Mateo García, the sons of Vago co-founder Aquilino García López, triple-distilled with toasted heirloom corn kernels added between the second and third distillations at the family palenque in Candelaria Yegolé, Oaxaca. A Double Gold winner at the 2025 San Francisco World Spirits Competition, Elote is the García family's celebration mezcal — creamy, softly sweet, and unmistakably corn-kissed. It is available to order online at Del Mesa Liquor.
- Proof / ABV: 49.9% ABV / 99.8 proof
- Size: 750mL
- Aging: unaged joven — bottled after distillation
- Origin: Candelaria Yegolé, Oaxaca, Mexico (García family palenque)
- Production: 100% espadín (8–10 yr); earthen pit roast 2–4 days, mule-drawn tahona, open-air pine vats; toasted heirloom corn between 2nd and 3rd distillation
Corn Meets Agave in the Third Distillation
Elote — "corn" — honors the two staples of Mexican life, and the García family's method is a pechuga-style twist: after the standard double distillation, roasted corn kernels from the family farm go into the still for a third pass. The result softens espadín's edges into caramelized corn, roasted nuts, and honeycomb with a light smokiness — a creamier, rounder take on the family's classic expression. Discover the rest of the Mezcal Vago family or keep exploring mezcal and tequila at Del Mesa Liquor.
Tasting Notes
Nose: Smoky toasted corn and dry river stones with charred agave, subtle smoke, and fresh green herbs.
Palate: Sweet wood tones and layers of honeycomb, caramelized corn, and green tropical fruit — roasted nuts and vanilla balanced with gentle earthiness and minerality.
Finish: Long and warming with roasted corn, peppery spice, and a soft, savory sweetness.
How to Enjoy
Neat in a copita is the classic serve — the creamy texture shines at room temperature. Its softer, rounder profile also makes it an excellent entry point for whiskey drinkers, and a memorable base for craft cocktails that call for mezcal.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is elote mezcal?
A mezcal made with roasted corn (elote) added during distillation — Vago's version infuses toasted heirloom corn kernels between the second and third distillations for a corn-kissed, creamier spirit.
Who are the Hijos de Aquilino Garcia?
Temo and Mateo García, sons of the late maestro mezcalero Aquilino García López, a founding mezcalero of Vago who passed in 2020; they carry on his artisanal methods at Candelaria Yegolé.
Is Elote sweetened?
No — the sweetness comes from the roasted corn and agave alone; Vago mezcals are additive-free with no added sugar, flavors, or colors.
What awards has Vago Elote won?
Double Gold at the 2025 San Francisco World Spirits Competition and 96 points in the Ultimate Spirits Challenge Top 100 (2020).
A celebration mezcal unlike any other — buy Mezcal Vago Elote online today from Del Mesa Liquor, San Diego, CA, while the current lot lasts.