Banhez
Banhez is a mezcal brand produced in Oaxaca, Mexico, crafted by a cooperative of small-scale producers (palenqueros) in the region of Ejutla and San Juan del Río. The brand has become widely recognized for offering an approachable, artisanal mezcal that reflects traditional production methods while remaining accessible to newcomers exploring the category.
Known for its balanced smoke and smooth agave character, Banhez is typically produced from a blend of Espadín and Barril (also called Barriles or Madrecuishe) agave. It has earned a following among bartenders and mezcal drinkers for delivering authentic, cooperative-made spirit at a reasonable price point.
Banhez is a mezcal brand produced in Oaxaca, Mexico, crafted by a cooperative of small-scale producers (palenqueros) in the region of Ejutla and San Juan del Río.
Read more about Banhez
Banhez is a mezcal brand produced in Oaxaca, Mexico, crafted by a cooperative of small-scale producers (palenqueros) in the region of Ejutla and San Juan del Río. The brand has become widely recognized for offering an approachable, artisanal mezcal that reflects traditional production methods while remaining accessible to newcomers exploring the category.
Known for its balanced smoke and smooth agave character, Banhez is typically produced from a blend of Espadín and Barril (also called Barriles or Madrecuishe) agave. It has earned a following among bartenders and mezcal drinkers for delivering authentic, cooperative-made spirit at a reasonable price point.
Background and Origin
Mezcal is a distilled spirit made from the agave plant, produced primarily in Oaxaca and several other designated Mexican states under a controlled Denomination of Origin. Unlike tequila, which must be made from blue Weber agave, mezcal can be made from dozens of agave varieties, giving it a broad spectrum of flavors and aromas.
Banhez is the product of a cooperative model, bringing together numerous small family producers in southern Oaxaca. This structure supports traditional palenqueros and helps preserve time-honored distillation practices while providing consistency across batches.
The brand's name and identity reflect its cooperative roots, and its widespread availability has made it a popular entry point for consumers looking to experience genuine artisanal mezcal rather than mass-produced alternatives.
Production and House Style
Banhez follows traditional mezcal production methods. Agave hearts, known as piñas, are typically roasted in earthen pit ovens, which imparts the characteristic smoky note associated with mezcal. The roasted agave is then crushed, often using a stone tahona, before being fermented and distilled.
The signature Banhez expression is commonly a blend of Espadín agave with a smaller proportion of Barril agave. Espadín provides a versatile, agave-forward base, while the Barril contributes additional complexity and herbal or floral nuance.
The house style emphasizes balance: enough smoke to signal its mezcal identity, but a smoothness and drinkability that make it suitable both for sipping neat and for use in cocktails. This accessibility has helped it become a bar staple.
What to Expect and Buying Tips
When shopping the Banhez collection, expect an artisanal mezcal that leans approachable rather than intensely smoky or funky. It tends to show cooked agave sweetness, gentle smoke, citrus, and subtle green or herbal notes on the finish.
Mezcal is traditionally enjoyed neat at room temperature, sipped slowly to appreciate its layers, and often accompanied by orange slices or sal de gusano (worm salt). Banhez also works well in cocktails such as a Mezcal Negroni, Oaxaca Old Fashioned, or mezcal margarita.
As with all spirits, availability of specific expressions can vary. Check the label for agave type, ABV, and bottling details, and consider Banhez a strong value choice for those seeking authentic, cooperative-produced Oaxacan mezcal.