Hornitos Black Barrel Tequila

First evening: After a few sips, I felt quite let down. However, similar to many spirits, allowing the bottle to breathe as you drink alters its character. Second evening: The following day, my initial tasting revealed a significantly more potent bouquet on the first pour. Immediately, the delightful, rich, buttery sweetness characteristic of bourbon was more apparent, accompanied by a subtle agave aroma, noticeable only upon close attention. It goes down smoothly enough, though not quite as smooth as superior tequilas or bourbons; it definitely possesses a hybrid whiskey/tequila profile. Considering its cost, I believe it's worth sampling for those who appreciate both whiskey and tequila. In mixed drinks, if a recipe calls for both bourbon and tequila, this could potentially substitute for the flavor of each, but it truly shines as an interesting sipper, primarily for its aroma. I also concur with many opinions noting rum-like undertones on the palate, possibly even hints of oak-aged brandy.

The professional notes are accurate. The aroma has dusty wood, bourbon-like vanilla, peppermint, and a touch of sweetness from the agave. The palate is quite rich and drinks much like a whiskey. More aromas from the nose appear, with plenty of sweet agave, more dusty charred oak, and dry cinnamon. The finish is long with more of that dusty wood flavor; it's sharp initially due to some alcohol but softens nicely.

The nose offers a sweet and sour agave with oak, vanilla, spice, and a hint of smoky barrel char. - The palate has caramel sweetness with fruity agave, wood spice, vanilla, and a bitter-sour citrus note. - Wood spice and sweetness linger in the finish with a slight musky undertone.

Hornitos Black Barrel presents a clear, deep gold color with consistent alcohol trails. The scent is of smoke and agave syrup. The taste features heavy smoke, ash, oak, sweet agave, and the crust of toast. It has a medium body and finishes relatively quickly. RJT

Agave, more spicy than vegetal, basil, smoke, barrel, distinct black pepper and cedar. Spicy, woody, medium-sweet; black pepper, oak and caramel; the agave is fairly subtle. Definitely tasty, but thin.

A very pleasant spirit to drink straight. I'm content with either whiskey or traditional tequila. This offers a nice fusion of the two. It's surprisingly good for its price. Hopefully, other producers will emulate this.