After years of cranking out additional anejo particular editions, for 2024, El Mayor has turned its consideration elsewhere: to the standard reposado, within the type of this “Rosado” tequila, which presents itself in a vibrant shade of pinkish orange. The colour comes from ending in cabernet sauvignon casks for 9 months — which suggests it should not be aged in bourbon barrels for a lot time (if in any respect) with the intention to keep beneath the one 12 months threshold that defines the reposado type.
Regardless of the pink shade which will connote cotton sweet, the nostril of the tequila is daring with agave, showcasing the peppery, natural high quality on the core of the spirit, nicely above any influence from the barrel(s). Notes of contemporary mint, a touch of charred wooden, and a few toasted coconut notes are featured because the tequila opens up with time in glass — basic reposado components, actually.
The palate finds that the tequila has ample sweetness up its sleeve, that coconut popping alongside a wholesome slug of vanilla, then transferring into notes of cola, expressed orange oil, and a lemon peel notice because the end approaches. There’s a sure bitterness right here that’s fleeting but in addition attention-grabbing, including a twist to what may have been an excessively candy expertise. Chalk that up maybe to the cabernet sauvignon barrel. Whereas it’s in no way related to lemon notes, the tannins within the barrel could possibly be accountable for that light bitterness that’s performing some magic right here — just like the drops of Angostura in your Outdated Original.
It’s a tequila that’s delightfully simple to sip by itself however which additionally works completely in a margarita due to its delicate citrus components — and its cheap value, all issues thought of.
80 proof. NOM 1603.
A- / $45 / elmayor.com
El Mayor Tequila Rosado Reposado – Cabernet Sauvignon Cask Aged
$45
