Mark G. rated 237d ago

Cazcanes No. 9 Rosa Blanco

87 SCORE

“Cazcanes No. 9 Rosa Blanco takes an already beloved expression and gives it a completely new personality. The result isn’t a “pink gimmick,” but a beautifully judged evolution of the No. 9 profile, one that stays true to the brand’s purity while adding a layer of fruity complexity you don’t normally find in a blanco. On the nose, cooked agave comes through immediately: warm, earthy sweet tones wrapped in light citrus and a touch of minerality. The rosa finish adds a whisper of red fruit, subtle strawberry skin, a floral lift, and a soft creaminess that rounds the edges without muting the agave. The palate is where it really shines. You get that familiar high-proof Cazcanes punch: bright agave, pepper, and mineral grit, but smoothed by a silkiness that feels almost unexpected at 100 proof. The rosa influence is delicate and perfectly integrated: hints of raspberry, rose petal, and a gentle vinous note that never overshadows the heart of the tequila. Everything is balanced, controlled, and incredibly drinkable. The finish is long and evolving with pepper, sweet cooked agave, a brush of fruit, and a clean, dry fade.”

Mark G. rated 239d ago

Volans Single Barrel Reposado

90 SCORE

“This Volans Single Barrel Reposado caught me off guard, in the best way. I’ve had my share of Volans SiBs and enjoyed every one, but this barrel stood out even among a lineup of standouts. This 2025 single barrel (I-25) spent six months in French oak and comes in at 44% ABV. It stays true to El Pandillo’s signature profile: a bold, clean expression of cooked agave leading the charge. The barrel contributes nuance rather than influence, just enough wood to add some complexity without ever getting in the way. On the palate, you get soft dried fruits like apricot and plum, flashes of citrus, black pepper, and a whisper of cinnamon. The higher proof lifts the agave beautifully, adds brightness to the agave and without a hint of harshness carrying into a confident medium finish. A barrel that doesn’t just shine… it elevates. ”

Mark G. rated 239d ago

Volans Still Strength Blanco

90 SCORE

“This Volans 2023 Lot #1 still-strength blanco at 53% ABV never disappoints. It’s quintessential Felipe, an unapologetic explosion of agave. The palate is loaded with cooked agave, bright citrus, minerals, and black pepper, with a touch of vegetal character and a whisper of brine rounding out this outstanding high-proof blanco. Yes, 53% ABV might look intimidating, but don’t let it fool you. The alcohol is remarkably well-balanced. There is a touch of heat, but it’s reined in beautifully by the sheer density of agave. A must-have for high-proof lovers, and if you’re not one yet, this bottle might be the one that converts you.”

Mark G. rated 611d ago

El Mante Pasion Blanco Rosas

53 SCORE

“Over the course of my 30-year tequila journey I have tried over three thousand varieties. I’ve encountered tequilas of every kind—some extraordinary, others downright dreadful. Among the latter lies Pasion—a tequila I sampled not out of desire, but as part of the process that shaped the palate I have today. El Mante Pasion Blanco Rosas from NOM 1529 is discontinued. Quote from the brand, “This Blanco Rosas begins a new category of Tequilas, unique to the Blanco Tequila market.” This was not an early iteration of the now-familiar Rosa tequila, where color comes from aging in red wine barrels. Instead, its pink hue came from cochineal—a pigment derived from crushed insects. While FDA-approved as a food colorant, it added little more than novelty here. Luckily for all of us their unique process never caught on. Twelve years ago, I swore off this tequila, but curiosity got the better of me—how would it fare on a second try? Unfortunately, not much has changed. The nose is tolerable, with a faint hint of raw agave struggling to emerge but never quite breaking through. On the palate, a whisper of agave appears briefly before being overwhelmed by a bitter, chemical aftertaste that lingers unpleasantly past the finish. The flavor profile is as perplexing as the tequila’s bright pink hue: a synthetic, fruity note that feels entirely unnatural. The finish? Mercifully short. In the end, Pasion remains a tequila best left in the past.”

Mark G. rated 647d ago

Tequila Ocho Plata Puntas - 2021 La Ladera

91 SCORE

“Did a side-by-side tasting of Ocho Puntas 2021, 2023, and 2024, and 2021 was the standout. The nose is exceptional—bursting with agave, complemented by subtle notes of celery, grapefruit, minerals, and a hint of cilantro. On the palate, it’s everything a clean blanco should be: intensely pure, with a perfect balance of flavor and alcohol at 50.50% ABV. There’s no harsh burn upfront, nor any lingering ethanol finish, making it smooth from start to finish. While all three Puntas were excellent, the 2021 held something truly special.”

Mark G. rated 678d ago

Cazcanes No. 9 Rosa Reposado

88 SCORE

“Cazcanes No. 9 Rosa Reposado (lote RR92401) from NOM 1614 was an absolute delight. Though I haven't had the chance to try the previous rosa reposado releases for comparison, this limited edition left a strong impression. It begins its life as a 104-proof barrel-strength blanco, which is then rested for 82 days in first-fill Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon French oak barrels, before being bottled at a robust 50% ABV. In the bottle, its deep, dark golden hue suggests a longer aging, reminiscent of an extra añejo, though the transformation is surprising once poured. The liquid reveals a much lighter orange with a soft pink tint, a welcome sight for those like me who aren't looking for a reposado overwhelmed by heavy oak notes. On the nose, it's subtler than anticipated, but the body more than compensates, packed with flavors of cooked agave, dried fruits, allspice, and a hint of ground pepper. It's layered and complex for a reposado. The true highlight, however, is the finish—an enduring, agave-forward warmth that evolves into a gentle, sustained dry heat, free of any harsh alcohol bite or bitterness. It’s the kind of finish that lingers, inviting you to savor it long after each sip. I’m reserving a bottle for après-ski in Telluride this year, and despite its $129 price tag—a bit steep for a reposado—I wholeheartedly recommend it. Cazcanes has crafted something special here.”

Mark G. rated 963d ago

Siembra Azul Reposado

89 SCORE

“I did a tasting of Siembra Azul Reposado with three different lots including lit #13, #14, and the newest release, a blend of lots #13 and #16. I anticipated similar aromas but what I encountered were three different and distinct profiles—Lot #13 showcased caramel, butterscotch, banana; Lot #14 had light smoke and an ancestral nose; Lot 13/16 exhibited herbaceous, earthy notes. Despite nearly identical production methods, the varied terroir, owing to different agave ranchos, resulted in three remarkably different aroma and taste profiles. In a blind tasting, I would have bet the farm that each of these three were different brands. It's a compelling testament to the impact of terroir on both aroma and flavor.”

Mark G. rated 979d ago

Teremana Tequila Blanco

52 SCORE

“Absolutely undrinkable. I love the Rock, I’ve actually met him. But this endeavor of his was a fail. In 30 years reviewing tequila, only one was worse: Black Death. ”

Mark G. rated 981d ago

Don Fulano 20 Aniversario Sherry Cask Añejo

83 SCORE

“I had the pleasure of sitting with friends to share the newly released Don Fulano 20th Aniversario Sherry Cask añejo. Except for me, the consensus was unanimous - everyone was thoroughly impressed. For them it struck a perfect balance, avoiding an overwhelming oakiness while delivering exceptional flavor. I had a different take on it, I felt it had an overwhelmingly burnt taste that drowned out much of the character. The aroma is rich in dried fruit, a characteristic I typically appreciate, The nose combines cooked agave, orange, and a subtle hint of caramel for a harmonious blend. On the palate, a natural sweetness unfolds, accompanied by the distinct presence of cooked agave and subtle barrel nuances. The sherry influence takes center stage, accentuated by notes of black pepper, dried plum, apricot, and a touch of nut and caramel. The finish is of medium duration, concluding with a subtle hint of citrus peel. The higher proof 44.4% ABV, effectively elevates the agave essence and brightens the overall flavor profile. I had the opportunity to taste it alongside the Jerizito Sherry Cask añejo, both produced at NOM 1146, and my preference leaned towards the Jerizito, In comparison, the 20th that burnt wood taste overwhelmed. ”

Mark G. rated 981d ago

Tequila Ocho Plata Puntas - 2023 Mesa Colorada

89 SCORE

“Ocho Puntas 2023 is truly exceptional. Congrats Carlos Camarena, I found it more enjoyable than its predecessor. Its aromatic profile bursts with sweet cooked agave, a citrus foundation, and a subtle hint of grass and celery. After resting in the glass for 6-7 minutes, the experience deepens, revealing new botanicals. On the palate, abundant cooked and raw agave notes take center stage, accompanied by citrus with a focus on lime, black pepper, brine and a touch of lemongrass and minerals in the background. Despite a robust alcohol content of 53% ABV, it's well balanced, awakening the palate rather than overwhelming it. This higher alcohol content brilliantly enhances the tequila, showcasing the hallmark mature, high brix agave characteristic of master distiller Carlos Camarena. The finish is impressively long and enduring, with the elevated alcohol content prolonging the flavorful journey; a symphony of agave and citrus notes that linger delightfully. This his one you’ll want to stock up on..”

Mark G. rated 1037d ago

Tezon Añejo

81 SCORE

“Tezon is a tahona-ground tequila that is no longer in production. I was fortunate enough to acquire cases of it years ago for just $18 each. I initially rated it an 85, and after revisiting it, I stand by that score. It offers a slight fruitiness with a touch of florals, accompanied by cinnamon, vanilla, and hints of orange and spice. While the agave presence is noticeable, it departs a bit too quickly. The finish, though medium to light, comes across as somewhat harsh compared to its overall light flavor. This is the 40% ABV US version. Given its lighter profile, I'm a bit skeptical about the MX 38% version. The pricing here in NJ ranged from $55 to $65, which might have contributed to its discontinuation. Tezon was produced at NOM 1111 which currently produces Olmeca Altos. The bottle itself is a work of art and a collectible item. Its unique shape features heavy metal placards on both sides with a volcanic tahona capper. These placards bear four inscriptions: agave, fire, a tahona, and water – the key elements, along with yeast, needed for tequila production. It's a collectible tequila that can still be found in stores. ”

Mark G. rated 1069d ago

Siembra Valles Tequila Añejo

90 SCORE

“Savoring a splendid tequila evening on my balcony, cradling Batch #10 Siembra Valles Anejo – yet another triumphant creation by Tequila Cascahuín and Siembra Spirits. This Anejo introduces itself with a bold rush of agave, its essence seamlessly refined. The delicate hue suggests that the barrel gracefully complements the rich cooked agave, without being overly oaked and your first sip confirms this harmony. The aroma enchants with notes of dried fruit, vanilla, and a subtle touch of licorice. On the palate, complexity reigns as agave, sweetness, and a gentle, alcohol-tinged warmth meld effortlessly. The finish, a lingering symphony of flavors, seals the experience. I thoroughly enjoyed this Anejo; a true delight, earns a well-deserved 91 points in my book.”

Mark G. rated 1162d ago

Charbay Blanco

87 SCORE

“Cooked agave with citrus notes and minerals. Nice finish. . Discontinued, if you can find it Gran a bottle. ”

Mark G. rated 1198d ago

Cascahuín Tequila Blanco - 11 Brix

92 SCORE

“This blanco quickly grabs your attention with a nose of cooked agave intertwined with citrus fruit… lemon/lime with a hint of orange peel, and then that awesome minerality. I love the herbaceousness of this with a bit of grass, white pepper and vegetal tones. The alcohol comes through, expected for a 53 ABV over-proof, but never does it overtake the wonderful aromas, it might even accentuate it. Now the palate…… I loathe the buildup of an enchanting nose that quickly disappoints once the liquid hits your palate… But with Cascahuin that never happens, the enchanting aromas of 11 Brix is only the lead up to the climax… Oh yes, this is Cascahuin, this is what I love!!! The highlights of the Plata 48 woven into the earthiness of the Tahona. Cooked agave, citrus and minerals are perfectly interwoven. The added heat opens the agave, brightens it and ushers in its natural sweetness. Spices come in to play, a bit of cinnamon, great fruit and anise…. The mouth is gently coated with buttery agave that slowly evolves into a long, extended finish. This screams 1123. ”

Mark G. rated 1203d ago

Don Fulano Imperial (5 yr)

87 SCORE

“imperial is loaded with oak that dominates the nose and palate, too much so for my liking. The heavy wood presence masks the underlying layers of flavor. A hit of caramel follows the oak with a trace of cooked agave eventually fighting it’s way through. As it opens up, hints of cherry, cinnamon and chocolate come through nicely. It’s not overly sweet which is redeeming as well as it being free of additives. It’s best quality is it’s long-lasting finish with just enough heat to give it character and allow the secondary flavors to linger on the palate. The older metal label version has more agave prevalent on the nose and palate with a slightly darker color, other than that they were fairly consistent. Price is high which brings down its value. ”

Mark G. rated 1215d ago

Cascahuín Tahona Blanco

91 SCORE

“I have been sipping Cascahuin Tahona for years and it has always been one of my favorite blancos. I just opened Lot #248 and it is absolutely delicious. The cheese and lactic aromas have become much less pronounced over the years, which is neither good nor bad just an observation. This is a tequila where the nose and taste match almost perfectly. On both the nose and palate you are first hit by a strong presence of cooked agave followed by loads of citrus and minerals. Vegetal overtones come into play with a hint of cut grass, black pepper and a tinge of anise. At 42% ABV, the alcohol is well balanced with medium heat pushing through a long agave finish. It’s not overly complex, just a clean, beautiful example of what an agave forward blanco should be. Everything you would expect from an artisanal, valley tequila. Cascahuin hits this one out of the park. ”

Mark G. rated 2814d ago

Astral Tequila Blanco

74 SCORE

“Hit with strong alcohol on the immediate nosing. Overwhelming at first since I didn’t know it was 46% but quickly realized it. Citrus, white pepper some spice comes through on the nose after acclimating. Medium body, with citrus,, cinnamon, pepper. I get the same chemical/diffuser aftertaste on this that I get from Herradura 2002 blanco round bottles. Not a favorite for high octane juice. If I’m going 45% plus I want Lots of flavor coming through to make the heat worthwhile— I’m not getting here. eh.”