Mal Bien Mezcal

Mal Bien works with independent distillers to bottle single-village mezcals made from wild agave varietals like Tobalá, Tepeztate, and Madrecuixe. The specific agave types vary from batch to batch, intentionally highlighting the unique terroir of different regions in Oaxaca.

The brand was founded by Temo García and Marco Ochoa, who collaborate directly with small-scale palenqueros (mezcaleros) in Mexico. They focus on preserving traditional, small-batch production methods rather than industrializing the spirit.

The agaves used in Mal Bien are typically roasted in underground pit ovens over hot stones, which gives the mezcal its signature smoky flavor profile. They are then crushed using a traditional tahona wheel, naturally fermented in open vats, and double distilled in copper stills.

Because Mal Bien produces mezcal in very small, single-batch quantities, it is primarily available at specialized liquor stores and high-end agave bars in the United States. You can also find specific batches through reputable online spirits retailers depending on your local shipping laws.