For the month of May, the tiny laneway bar Cantina OK! is pouring a rotating trio of small-batch mezcals for $10 a serve – or $30 for all three – pulling bottles from a back bar that’s usually reserved for those willing to spend a lot more. It’s a rare chance to drink through seriously limited agave spirits without committing to a full pour (or a minor financial decision).
The lineup includes ‘Bondi Beach’ from Gilberto Aquino, a layered blend of four agave varieties distilled together; ‘Antipasti’ from Paula Aquino, one of the few female mezcaleras working in San Luis Amatlán, and ‘Red Lipstick’ from the Cortes family, built on aromatic Karwinskii agave. Three very different expressions, all priced to experience.
It’s a move that tracks for the bar, which has been hand-importing mezcal, raicilla, and other agave spirits since 2017 – long before it was trending and built its reputation on bottles you’re unlikely to see again.
For regulars, it’s an affordable excuse to revisit. For everyone else, it’s probably the easiest way you’ll ever get into this level of mezcal without being gently judged by your wallet.