NOSE: Cooked agave, citrusy-maybe orange peel. Vanilla, oak, barrel spices, black pepper. herbal. Maybe even clove PALATE: Cooked agave. Very citrus. Cacao, oak, black pepper, earthiness, cinnamon, barrel spices and caramel FINISH: Smooth and balanced. Medium finish. Very easy to drink and enjoy. Oaky on finish

If just starting to drink blancos, Great tequila to start with

Elevación 1250 is co-owned by a Canadian advertising exec and Iliana Partida, the talented head of Hacienda del Oro, where 4 Copas, Quintaliza and other emerging craft brands are created.  This rosa blanco is the flagship expression for the brand, and they’ve made a smart move in that regard.  Many rosas (tequilas aged in wine barrels) can exhibit fruitiness and the signature pink hue, yes, but can also become a scary labyrinth of discordant flavors when left in barrel too long.  This rosa is in Napa Valley French oak wine barrels for just over two weeks. The aroma is fine, but not my favorite. It’s a bit musty and earthy and mushroom-y which isn’t an issue per se, but seems out of step with the pink color. You certainly don’t sniff this one and think “blanco”. But once you drink it you realize this is a really interesting expression that still maintains a lot of agave character and sweetness, but with added apple and pear notes and a distinct earthiness and saltiness that you don’t find on their regular blanco.  The little bit of extra ABV on this helps too, giving more flavor impact, especially with the salinity.  For me, one of the best rosas on the market.