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Don Julio Blanco Tequila
Distiller Score 94
The nose is bright and sassy with fresh agave aromas bolstered by some lemon and grapefruit. A little smoke accompanies pear and citrus peel on the palate. The flavors persist on the finish with agave making a return appearance, along with some lingering pepper. The blanco is a stainless fist in a glove of terciopelo (a pit-viper snake)--seductive and velvety on the surface, steely and smart on further acquaintance.
Reviewed by Ron Bechtol
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Don Julio Reposado Tequila
Distiller Score 88
Don Julio Reposado offers less citrus on the nose than the Blanco, and the agave component now comes across as more cooked. The oak seems also to have tamed the original spirit's fruit and citrus (though the pepper remains) while adding a slight bitterness. Better as a mixer than solo, and much improved by a splash of Topo Chico.
Reviewed by Ron Bechtol
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4 Copas Tequila Blanco
Distiller Score 98
A massively aromatic tequila: sun-baked earth, dried herbs, grilled nectarines, olive brine, crisp citrus. On the palate the touch is delicate but full-bodied, with notes of almond flower, white pepper and cinnamon joining in. Tangy, lip-smacking and generous - a nearly perfect expression of agave.
Reviewed by Jack Robertiello
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Fortaleza Blanco Tequila
Distiller Score 94
Fortaleza Blanco Tequila is a tequila that manages to be fairly balanced in its earthy, vegetal, and sweet agave notes. It has an average mouth-feel without being slick or too sweet. Raw pineapple, green olives, and lime round out the palate. The finish is only slightly bitter and is dry, but not bone dry. This is a tequila that has a solid character and is a good yardstick by which to measure other valley tequilas.
Reviewed by Stephanie Moreno
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Azuñia Añejo Tequila
Distiller Score 94
Less bombastic than the brash reposado, Azuñia's añejo adds mature woody tones to its nose of spicy agave and green olive tapenade. Spice and wood surge on the palate, with white pepper giving way to black, cinnamon bark retaining its grip and spiced Mexican chocolate emerging on the lush finish. Sip while contemplating the contributions of Sor Juana to Mexican cuisine.
Reviewed by Ron Bechtol
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Azuñia Reposado Organic Tequila
Distiller Score 94
The nose bounds out of the glass with not just notes but a full chorus of agave, green olive, fresh alfalfa and spice. The palate continues the choral assault with more intense agave and spice (white pepper, cinnamon bark, vanilla) and a soothing counterpoint of sweetness--most of which carries on into the medium finish.
Reviewed by Ron Bechtol
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Corralejo Reposado Tequila
Distiller Score 96
There's a lot going on here, and each sip brings a new experience. At times the smoke from the charred American oak, seems at the fore, then the cinnamon, clove, nutmeg and black pepper kick in. Mushrooms do a funky dance before twirling into flavors of dark chocolate and vanilla. Don't you dare turn this into a Margarita - this highly nuanced tequila is meant for neat enjoyment.
Reviewed by Amanda Schuster
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Siete Leguas Blanco Tequila
Distiller Score 93
The aroma is intensely full of sweet agave and earthy notes, maybe even smoky. The palate is rich, but not oily and the rustic, earthy tones continue on the palate. There's a bit of pepper and some sweetness, but not overtly so. A blanco tequila with substance.
Reviewed by Stephanie Moreno
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Gran Centenario Añejo Tequila
Distiller Score 90
Brilliant amber in color with flecks of reflective gold. Clove, distinct oak, and white pepper is found on the nose along with caramel and cinnamon. Cooked agave characterizes the initial taste. The mouthfeel is slightly buttery and smooth, leaving a well-rounded, pleasant earthy finish.
Reviewed by Katrina Niemisto
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Gran Centenario Reposado Tequila
Distiller Score 92
The contact with the charred oak manifests in a spicy, peppery style of reposado with a delightfully smoky kick. Chili peppers and cinnamon spice fan out a bit on the palate to reveal vegetal and tropical fruity notes. Very pleasant to sip.
Reviewed by Amanda Schuster
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Tequila Ocho Plata "La Magueyera" 2014
Distiller Score 88
This is a very fresh-tasting tequila, with strong citrus and green pepper notes and a lot of salinity. A smooth, earthy flavor ties everything together, ending in a peppery, mineral, clean finish.
Reviewed by Amanda Schuster
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t1 Tequila Blanco Selecto
Distiller Score 92
On the nose, you’ll find earthy notes paired with stewed agave and green peppercorn, possibly some aromatic geranium leaf. On the palate, its earthier agave character may lack the creaminess of the Ultra Fino, but it more than holds its own with the help of the higher proof--which is discernible only as a foundation; there is no excess heat, just a deeper spice. Food pairing suggestion? Think duck with mole sauce.
Reviewed by Ron Bechtol