Cacique Superior Guaro

This sugar cane spirit, a staple in Costa Rica, holds the title of the country's top-selling distilled drink. It's commonly referred to as "Costa Rican liqueur." The Cacique brand offers three variations: the 30% ABV red label Guaro, the 35% ABV Superior black label, and the 30% ABV Roncolorado yellow label. These are a type of aguardiente, a spirit popular throughout Central and South America, frequently made from the residue of sugarcane processing. I acquired this 365 ml plastic bottle of the Superior black label sometime between 2015 and 2016 while visiting Costa Rica. While I consumed many drinks there (cola and guaro, a Vida Libre), I brought this bottle home and subsequently misplaced it. Tasting it straight. Visually, it's clear with faint legs. The aroma is clean, with subtle floral notes of sugar cane. The initial taste brings raw alcohol, but at its moderate 35% ABV, it's a mild burn. It has a sugar cane sweetness accompanied by an unusual chemical and sour accent, mingled with a funky, earthy character. The finish is somewhat sour and leaves a persistent tingling on the lips that endures for a considerable time. It's an aguardiente. It originates locally, is unremarkable, inexpensive, and (as a well-crafted Costa Rican product) it suffices. No need for deep contemplation. When mixed with cola soda, it becomes the de facto national beverage... in a way.