Vago El Manantial by Hijos de Barriga Mezcal – 86 Proof (43% ABV) | 750ml

Bright, fruit-forward, and deeply rooted in Oaxacan tradition, Vago El Manantial by Hijos de Barriga Mezcal is an artisanal joven mezcal crafted by Joelito and Adán Barriga, sons of renowned mezcalero Don Joel Barriga. Bottled at 43% ABV (86 proof) in a 750ml bottle, this 100% Espadín expression showcases the distinctive terroir of Tapanalá, Oaxaca, with a delicate balance of tropical fruit, creamy cooked agave, minerality, and subtle vegetal character.

Process & Production

Produced at Hacienda Tapanalá in Oaxaca's Sierra Sur, El Manantial is crafted from 100% Espadín agave using traditional artisanal mezcal production methods. The expression is produced by Hijos de Barriga — Joelito and Adán Barriga — carrying forward the mezcal-making traditions of their father, Maestro Don Joel Barriga.

The name El Manantial, meaning "the spring," pays tribute to the natural local spring water of Tapanalá. This water plays an important role in the expression, being used during production and to proof the finished mezcal to 43% ABV. Combined with high-elevation Sierra Sur agave, it contributes to the mezcal's bright, approachable, and fruit-forward character.

Appearance

Crystal clear with brilliant clarity, reflecting its traditional joven, unaged character.

Tasting Notes

Nose: Sweet and creamy aromas open into subtle vegetal and mineral notes, creating an inviting introduction with fresh agave character.

Palate: Cooked agave, sweet potato, and red apple lead into a clean mineral-driven mid-palate with a soft, creamy texture.

Finish: Smooth and balanced with lingering vegetal character, gentle minerality, cream, and warm baking spice.

What Makes It Special

Vago El Manantial represents a continuation of the Barriga family's mezcal-making legacy, with Joelito and Adán carrying forward the traditions and distinctive flavor profile associated with their father, Don Joel Barriga.

The use of natural local spring water is central to this expression. Combined with Espadín grown at high elevation in Oaxaca's Sierra Sur, it creates an unusually delicate, creamy, mineral, and fruit-forward profile designed to remain approachable without sacrificing traditional artisanal character.

How to Enjoy

Best enjoyed neat in a copita or tasting glass to appreciate its fruit, minerality, and creamy texture. Its approachable 86-proof profile also makes it particularly versatile in bright, tropical, citrus-forward mezcal cocktails.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the alcohol content of Vago El Manantial by Hijos de Barriga Mezcal?
It is bottled at 43% ABV (86 proof).

What type of agave is used?
El Manantial is crafted from 100% Espadín agave.

Who makes Vago El Manantial?
It is distilled at Hacienda Tapanalá by Joelito and Adán Barriga, the sons of Maestro Don Joel Barriga.

Where is it produced?
It is produced in Tapanalá, Oaxaca, in the Sierra Sur region of Mexico.

What is the bottle size?
This expression comes in a 750ml bottle.

Pricing & Availability

This listing includes one 750ml bottle of Vago El Manantial by Hijos de Barriga Mezcal, bottled at 86 proof (43% ABV). Available now on our website while supplies last.

Brand Story

Mezcal Vago is dedicated to showcasing traditionally produced, small-batch mezcal and the individual craftspeople responsible for making it. Rather than hiding the details behind each spirit, Vago emphasizes transparency, identifying the mezcalero, village, agave variety, production methods, and other important details directly on its bottles. El Manantial continues that philosophy through the work of Hijos de Barriga, preserving the family's mezcal-making heritage while showcasing the distinctive agave and natural spring water of Tapanalá.