El Tesoro Mundial Collection: Laphroaig Edition (2023 Release)

Sweet roasted agave that begins to evolve into some light lime, mild oakiness, subtle minerality, salinity, hints of leather, and some green herbal agave/medicinal scotch notes. The peat starts to emerge at this stage but isn't overpowering in any way. It's perceptible as peat smoke but playfully interacts with the finish. The finish is medium to long with notes of vanilla, smoke, and mineral. It certainly feels like a younger anejo, but all its elements are executed masterfully. The salinity and smoke from Laphroaig provide a nice extra layer of complexity while remaining an effortlessly sippable spirit with intriguing notes.

Surprisingly, the smell of peat smoke is quite reserved on the nose. Only a faint hint of creosote appears after several attempts to detect it. Sweet agave flavor leads the way on the palate, followed by a touch of saltiness. A mild smokiness, like a cigar malt, emerges only at the very end of the flavor experience. The body is medium, and the finish is exceptionally long. As the younger member of the Mundial Collection, this one is a bit reserved, but it will grow on you quickly.

A pleasant offering with hints of baked agave, sweet potato casserole with marshmallows, tart limes, spicy jalapeño, smoky mesquite, ripe peaches, warm cinnamon, aromatic star anise, and a touch of iodine.