Sauza Tequila Blanco

It's remarkable to revisit this product with some age. This was my go-to Tequila in my early college years, being affordable, tasting of agave, and not immediately revolting like another brand. However, my fond recollections of this product have faded now that my palate has become more refined. Let's start with the aroma. For a mixto, it's surprisingly decent. There's a strong scent of alcohol mixed with agave, but it doesn't overwhelm other notes. Hints of green apple, a vegetal muskiness, and an unidentifiable floral characteristic are present. I'm amazed the official tasting notes are mostly accurate, though calling the floral scent Jasmine seems a bit pretentious from that brand. Faintly in the background, a white pepper note tries its best to remain hidden. The taste is also unexpectedly palatable – let me be clear, I don't mean it's *good*, but it's not undrinkable. Agave with a strong ethanol presence dominates the palate. It feels very disjointed and unrefined, but it doesn't sting the tongue. The mid-palate features artificial green apple and a strange, almost tea-like note in the background. It's completely undefined but not unpleasant. Almost like brewing a third cup of the same tea and finding most of the flavor has vanished. It's also a surprisingly salty, almost briny Tequila. It's not immediately obvious. Rather, as you drink and reflect, you notice a peculiar saltiness on your tongue, and it's hard to disregard once noticed. But it's also not extremely prominent. Difficult to describe. It's just annoying enough to make its presence known but not enough to "ruin" the experience, not that tasting this is particularly pleasant to begin with. However, where the Tequila truly falters is the finish. It doesn't burn like Jose Cuervo Especial. It is, however, quite bitter. Very similar to chewing on the pith of a lime with some odd citrusy undertones. This lasts for about 20 seconds before yielding to both a white pepper finish and an absolutely dreadful swill of processed chemicals. The pepper does a decent job of masking the chemical aftertaste, but sadly it lingers in the back of your throat for far too long. I wouldn't really suggest this Tequila for sipping or drinking neat. It's not bad at all for making a large batch of cheap margarita mix for a big party, though. But it has limited use as a serious cocktail ingredient. I recommend the Zapopan if you're looking for an inexpensive mixer.

The aromas are sweet vanilla and sweet cream. The agave is quite masked by this candy-like scent. The flavors are similar, but the previously unnoticed alcohol makes a sharp and quick appearance. However, it vanishes just as fast. It's replaced by a sweetness that's somewhat rubbery, artificial, and plasticky. Still, it's better than some low-cost tequilas available.

Translucent, herbal aromas, vegetal notes, alcohol is present, fresh, medium finish.

Tastes like dirty ashtray water.

The sweetness and spice feel artificial and create an unpleasant taste.

Ideal tequila for a margarita