Espolòn Añejo X Tequila

Most extra añejo tequilas present a paradox. Individuals unfamiliar with tequila are unlikely to purchase such costly products. Tequila aficionados lament the lack of authentic tequila character. While a minimum of three years aging is required for an extra añejo classification, many producers seem to utilize damp barrels, resulting in the spirit being lost in offerings like Don Julio, Tears of Llorona, and Fuenteseca. It's as if these Mexican distillers are embarrassed by their own spirit. Enter Espolòn extra añejo, aged for six years (!) in virgin oak. Therefore, this will not resemble a bourbon, scotch, or brandy. This will be an agave spirit enhanced by oak. Let's proceed. NOSE: Herbal and spicy. The virgin oak beautifully complements the agave notes. You detect earthiness, grassy notes, cinnamon, mint, a subtle smokiness from roasted plants, and a faint vanilla sweetness. PALATE: A peppery arrival. The agave spirit is highlighted, not concealed. Experience green cactus notes enhanced by nutmeg, chili peppers, and mint. Bitter lemon zest and underripe pineapple are balanced by soft, creamy caramel. It becomes salty toward the conclusion. FINISH: Surprisingly briny. Dry, but not harsh. Although the virgin oak is reportedly uncharred or untoasted, you perceive notes of roasting/burning banana leaves, as the agave remains the star of the dram. WITH WATER: It can accommodate a few drops, leading to increased sweetness and creaminess. It reveals the softer wood flavors and definitely rounds out the drink. VERDICT: This has restored my confidence in tequila. At $100, it is a very reasonable price for a six-year-old tequila. A spirit-forward tequila of this age is rare. The bottle is exquisite and will serve as my 'black art' until I acquire a bottle of Bruichladdich Black Art. The only superior tequila I've encountered is from older (2009 and 2011) bottlings of Jose Cuervo de la Familia; unfortunately, more recent versions are significantly inferior. Currently, Espolòn's extra añejo might just be the pinnacle of tequila. MARK: 90/100.

There are aromas of light smoky sweetness and a fresh, tropical salty breeze, like being at the beach. The palate has a salty freshness with flavors of fresh sweet agave and citrus, like tangerines, with a light floral note. A very pleasant tequila for sipping.

Solid pour. It presents agave with mineral undertones, a kick of pepper, some caramel, and a hint of vanilla, though this vanilla note occasionally strikes as synthetic.

Extremely pale and thin, lacking the rich flavors typically associated with an Extra Añejo. Hints of floral notes and perhaps some raw sugar.

A limited edition, expensive but entirely justified. I acquired three bottles and gifted one to a close companion

Found on sale at the last call at Warren's.