There are few mezcals on the market for under $40 that display so much flavor and complexity as El Jolgorio’s Nuestra Soledad espadín from La Compañía Ejutla, Oaxaca. That said, it shouldn’t come as a huge surprise: El Jolgorio’s top-shelf line made from wild-harvested agave is one of the most diverse and incredible-tasting available anywhere.

Nuestra Soledad – La Compañía Ejutla really bursts with floral notes and hints of cilantro and mint. It’s sweet but not cloying, perfumy without being Bloomingdale’s-perfume-department overwhelming, and not overly smoked. This NS expression has a slightly medicinal quality to it, but that really props up its layers of complexity. Cocktail-wise, it works well in cooler-flavored citrus drinks (not the kind of thing I’d mix with whiskey or mole bitters, necessarily), and is stunning when sipped neat. It’s got an introductory price tag, but it’s about as unique as a $40 mezcal could possibly get. For more experienced, adventurous palates. I really love this one.

Read more about my favorite mezcals for under $40 here.