Jalisco, Mexico (Highlands Region) – 40%ABV – 750ml – $35
WARNING & DISCLAIMER – this tequila is certified as “Kosher” but not “Kosher for Passover”
Even though it’s not K for P certified I thought I should list both the fermentation process as well as the aging process as I can not see why this would not be K for P:
Fermentation Process — “The agave juice is extracted into a large vat where it is fermented with the same “prisse de mousse” yeast used in the fermentation of Champagne. Throughout this delicate slow fermentation process, Siembra Azul is gently serenaded around the clock by the sounds of Vivaldi and Mozart, in a sophisticated technique known as “serenading” the tequila. The soothing rhythms and gentle vibrations is thought to have a positive effect on the living yeast cultures, and helps to produce a smooth, mellow tasting tequila.” (I wonder what would happen if they played some Kimono Draggin’ during the process…)
Aging — “Before bottling, Siembra Azul’s Reposado and Añejo rest in virgin American White Oak “medium toast” barrels from the Ozarks in Missouri. These barrels were selected bcause of the impact the virgin oak from this region has on the flavor profile of Siembra Azul. The Reposado is aged for 3 months and the Añejo rests in these barrels for 12-36 months. The Añejo is bottled when the Master Distiller feels it is at its prime” (This is the “Blanco” which, correct if I’m wrong, does not spend much time, if any, in a barrel.)
Seems good to me – I’m moving on. Before I do, here’s some more info on this fine tequila (and, it is a very fine tequila, worth more than the price I paid for it):
Quick Description of Siembra Azul — “Siembra Azul, meaning “blue harvest”, is created in the town of Arandas, Mexico from only the finest blue agave. This premium quality spirit is different because more agave is used per bottle. The agave is also allowed to mature longer, which gives it a rich, pronounced flavor. To preserve this flavor, Siembra Azul is bottled by hand in specially designed bottles with air-tight metal caps. High quality ingredients combined with the creator’s attention to detail has resulted in a truly exceptional spirit.”
Sounds appetizing, right? Lets go!
On the nose – Mint – right off the bat, tobacco, lemonade, gingerbread man cookies, maybe ginger snaps, it noses more like a malt than it does a tequila, oaky (which is strange if this did not spend time in a barrel. Perhaps it’s a natural flavor from the agave?)
Palate — Black pepper (am I tasting salt too?), back to the mint and spiced tobacco (like licking an unlit cigar wrapper – “Roam” Acid Cigar to be specific), back to the citrus, this time it’s more orangey – Mineola Oranges (sweet and tart)
Finish – Peppery, lasting, citrus, more pepper
In sum – What a nice little break from whisk(e)y. This is really getting me ready for summer. While I am tasting this at room temperature, this would be quite nice chilled. Not sure I would ruin it with a lime but, if I wanted to make a bad cocktail taste good, I’d add this for sure. Out of the way Cuervo, Patron, there’s a new tequila in town! YUM!