Shaun M. rated 1d ago

Tapatio Blanco 110

91 SCORE

“Tapatío 110 Blanco Nose The nose opens with pronounced minerality accompanied by earthy, vegetal notes. A touch of alcohol vapor reminds you of the higher proof without overwhelming the aromas. As the glass opens, subtle floral notes emerge, adding elegance and complexity to the profile. Taste and Texture (TNT) A thick, oily mouthfeel coats the palate and leaves excellent legs in the glass. Sweet cooked agave arrives first before sharp black pepper takes center stage. The higher proof delivers a warming sensation that wraps around the throat more than the tongue, creating intensity while allowing the agave to remain the foundation. Cinnamon develops as the sip progresses, adding balance to the pepper-driven profile. Finish Long and warming with lingering black pepper and cinnamon. Subtle notes of natural fermentation, black licorice, and a distinct vegetal character continue to evolve after the sip, giving the finish depth while preserving its agave-forward identity. Overall Tapatío 110 is a classic high-proof blanco that emphasizes structure and balance over sheer power. The combination of minerality, earthy character, rich texture, and integrated proof creates a tequila that is both expressive and highly drinkable. The evolving floral aromas and layered finish reward time in the glass, making each sip a little different from the last.”

Shaun M. rated 1d ago

El Ateo Blanco Still Strength

92 SCORE

“El Ateo “Big Bang” High Proof Blanco Nose The aroma opens with rich roasted agave sweetness layered over pronounced minerality and a touch of coastal brine. The profile is clean and expressive, showcasing the natural character of the agave while hinting at the intensity to come. Taste and Texture (TNT) A thick, oily mouthfeel immediately coats the palate, leaving excellent legs in the glass. Sweet roasted agave remains at the forefront, followed by natural fermentation, warming cinnamon, and black pepper. The higher proof creates a pleasant tingling sensation across the palate, adding energy without masking the tequila’s core flavors. Finish The finish is long, warm, and agave-driven. Sweet roasted agave lingers alongside cracked black pepper, while subtle black licorice and delicate fermented vegetal notes gradually emerge. The warmth persists, but the agave remains the lasting impression rather than the alcohol. Overall El Ateo “Big Bang” High Proof Blanco delivers the intensity expected from a high-proof tequila while maintaining excellent balance. The combination of roasted agave sweetness, rich texture, minerality, fermentation, and restrained spice creates a flavorful, well-structured blanco that never loses sight of its agave foundation.”

Shaun M. rated 2d ago

El Tesoro Tequila Reposado

91 SCORE

“El Tesoro Reposado Nose The nose opens with a balanced combination of light oak and wet minerality, supported by natural cooked agave sweetness. The barrel influence is present without dominating, allowing the agave to remain the focal point while adding warmth and depth. Taste (TNT) A rich, oily mouthfeel immediately coats the palate, leaving pronounced legs that cling beautifully to the glass. Sweet cooked agave is complemented by gentle tannins, black pepper, and warming cinnamon. The oak is well integrated, providing structure rather than overwhelming the tequila’s natural character. Finish The finish is long, warm, and spice-driven. Lingering oak and cinnamon are joined by a pleasant dryness from the tannins, while subtle vegetal fermentation emerges toward the end, adding complexity and keeping the finish unmistakably agave-forward. Overall El Tesoro Reposado is a textbook example of traditional reposado craftsmanship. The barrel enhances rather than masks the agave, creating a profile built on balance instead of excess. Rich texture, integrated oak, warming spice, and a touch of fermentation combine to produce a refined and highly drinkable tequila.”

Shaun M. rated 3d ago

Mijenta Cristalino Tequila Reposado

90 SCORE

“Mijenta Cristalino Nose Sweet cooked agave leads the aroma, complemented by tropical coconut notes that add brightness without becoming artificial. The nose is inviting and approachable, with the sweetness remaining balanced and integrated. Taste (TNT) A rich, viscous mouthfeel immediately coats the palate, leaving excellent legs in the glass. Natural agave sweetness is supported by warming cinnamon and black pepper, while subtle tropical coconut notes add another layer of complexity. Despite the sweeter profile, the tequila retains enough spice and texture to stay engaging. Finish The finish is warm and gently sweet, carrying lingering tropical nuances alongside black pepper, cinnamon, and vegetal fermentation. The combination creates a finish that is balanced and expressive, allowing the sweeter elements to coexist with the tequila’s agave-forward character. Overall Mijenta Cristalino offers a thoughtful interpretation of the category by maintaining the distillery’s agave identity while introducing tropical sweetness and refined barrel influence. The rich texture, balanced spice, and lingering fermentation prevent it from becoming overly dessert-like, resulting in a Cristalino that remains both approachable and complex.”

Shaun M. rated 3d ago

Mijenta Reposado Symphony Series No. 2

92 SCORE

“Mijenta Symphony Series No. 2 Nose The nose immediately showcases elegant oak influence with inviting notes of caramel and butterscotch layered over natural cooked agave sweetness. The barrel complements rather than dominates, creating a warm, expressive aroma that remains balanced and approachable. Taste (TNT) Cooked agave sweetness leads the palate before giving way to warming cinnamon and black pepper. The mouthfeel is rich, thick, and silky, coating the tongue and leaving pronounced legs in the glass. The flavors are well integrated, allowing the sweetness, spice, and texture to work together without one overpowering the others. Finish The finish is long and warming, yet surprisingly cooling on the exhale. Lingering vegetal notes, natural fermentation, and a subtle black licorice character add depth and complexity while maintaining balance. The finish evolves gracefully, inviting another sip. Overall Symphony Series No. 2 is a beautifully composed expression that layers barrel character over Mijenta’s agave-forward foundation without losing its identity. The interplay of caramel, butterscotch, cooked agave, pepper, and fermentation creates a profile that feels both luxurious and balanced. Its rich texture and evolving finish make it a standout in the lineup.”

Shaun M. rated 3d ago

Mijenta Blanco Maestra Selection No. 2

90 SCORE

“Mijenta Maestra Selection No. 2 Nose The nose opens with pronounced minerality supported by delicate floral aromas. A subtle nutty character adds warmth and depth, while black pepper provides a gentle lift. The aromas are more focused and cohesive, creating a clean, inviting profile. Taste (TNT) A rich, warming palate immediately showcases the tequila’s higher proof without overwhelming the agave. Black pepper leads the flavor profile, balanced by a silky, full-bodied mouthfeel. The texture is thick and oily, clinging beautifully to the glass and coating the palate with each sip. The profile feels clean, integrated, and confident. Finish The finish is warm, long, and satisfying. Natural fermentation lingers well after the sip, adding complexity while allowing the pepper and cooked agave to remain at center stage. The finish leaves a lasting impression without introducing distracting or competing notes. Overall Mijenta Maestra Selection No. 2 delivers a richer and more cohesive experience than expected. The combination of minerality, floral aromas, pepper, and a luxurious mouthfeel creates an elegant, well-balanced tequila that remains true to its agave-forward character. The lingering fermentation on the finish adds depth without overpowering the profile, making this a memorable and enjoyable pour.”

Shaun M. rated 3d ago

Mijenta Blanco Maestra Selection No. 1

88 SCORE

“Mijenta Maestra Selection No. 1 Nose Freshly opened, the initial pour presents a noticeable alcohol presence that masks some of the underlying aromas. With time in the glass, cooked agave begins to emerge alongside vegetal notes, bright citrus, wet minerality, and a subtle briny character reminiscent of sea air. The aromas are intriguing, but they remain somewhat reserved and require effort to fully uncover. Taste (TNT) The palate opens with black pepper and warming cinnamon, immediately showcasing the tequila’s higher proof. Cooked agave provides a touch of natural sweetness that balances the spice, while fermented notes and a subtle black licorice character add depth. The mouthfeel is rich, thick, and oily, coating the palate and leaving pronounced legs in the glass. Despite the quality of the individual components, the overall profile never quite comes together into a seamless whole. Finish The finish is long and warming with lingering pepper and cooked agave. A noticeable tannic quality develops late, creating the impression of light barrel influence despite this being a blanco. Whether that character comes from fermentation or production techniques rather than oak, it introduces an unexpected twist that leaves the finish feeling more puzzling than satisfying. Overall Mijenta Maestra Selection No. 1 is clearly a thoughtfully crafted, high-quality tequila with excellent texture and plenty of complexity. The minerality, fermentation, and oily mouthfeel all point to careful production. However, on this first pour, the nose feels muted, the palate lacks complete harmony, and the finish introduces notes that don’t fully resonate with my palate. This is a bottle I’ll revisit after it has had time to open up, as I suspect additional air may help reveal its full character.”

Shaun M. rated 4d ago

Mijenta Tequila Blanco

91 SCORE

“Mijenta Blanco – 91/100 Mijenta Blanco is an elegant expression that showcases the beauty of cooked agave without unnecessary distractions. It balances sweetness, minerality, and natural fermentation with a rich mouthfeel, resulting in a tequila that is approachable while still offering plenty of complexity. Every sip feels authentic and well-crafted, allowing the agave to remain the focal point from start to finish. Nose The aroma opens with cooked agave immediately taking center stage alongside fresh minerality. Natural fermentation is evident, while subtle citrus and delicate herbal notes add brightness and freshness. A soft floral sweetness rounds out a clean, expressive nose that becomes more inviting with time in the glass. Taste Sweet cooked agave leads the palate before layers of cinnamon and baking spices gradually emerge. The texture is rich, silky, and beautifully coats the palate without feeling heavy. Minerality and natural fermentation remain woven throughout, providing depth while allowing the agave to stay firmly in the spotlight. The balance between sweetness, spice, and earthy character is excellent. Finish The finish is medium to long, carrying lingering cooked agave, warming cinnamon, and gentle baking spices. Minerality and natural fermentation continue to unfold long after the sip, leaving a clean, balanced, and unmistakably agave-forward impression that encourages another pour. Final Score: 91/100 Collection Notes Mijenta Blanco is an excellent example of a modern, additive-free blanco that remains true to its agave roots. It may not reach the intensity or complexity of some of your highest-rated blancos, but its balance, silky mouthfeel, and authentic agave character make it an easy bottle to recommend and one you’ll enjoy revisiting. For drinkers looking for a refined, approachable blanco with excellent craftsmanship, Mijenta delivers exactly that.”

Shaun M. rated 4d ago

General Gorostieta Blanco High Proof

90 SCORE

“General Gorostieta High Proof – 90/100 Flight: 1579 High-Proof Blanco Blind Showdown Contestants: * Don Vicente Fuerte * Terralta 110 * General Gorostieta High Proof * Volans Still Strength * G4 108 Third in the flight was General Gorostieta High Proof, a tequila that showcased a distinctive combination of minerality, briny character, and cooked agave. While it leaned more toward earthy and savory notes than some of the other contenders, its rich texture and balanced finish made it a rewarding pour that continued to evolve throughout the tasting. Nose The aroma opens with pronounced minerality supported by cooked agave and a subtle briny quality that immediately sets it apart from the rest of the lineup. The nose is clean and inviting, with the agave becoming more expressive as the tequila opens in the glass. Taste The palate begins with sweet cooked agave before earthy vegetal notes emerge. A thick, almost oily mouthfeel coats the tongue, while the elevated proof gently dries the palate without becoming aggressive. The flavors remain well integrated, allowing the natural agave character to stay at the forefront. Finish The finish is long, warm, and satisfying. Cooked agave sweetness lingers alongside a subtle hint of black licorice, while the warmth slowly fades without any harsh burn. The finish remains balanced and encourages another sip, revealing new nuances with each revisit. Overall General Gorostieta High Proof is an expressive, traditionally crafted blanco that highlights minerality, savory complexity, and rich agave character. Its distinctive briny notes, thick mouthfeel, and lingering finish create a profile that stands apart from the rest of the flight. Although it finished third in this blind tasting, it delivered an enjoyable and memorable experience that demonstrated both character and craftsmanship. Score: 90/100”

Shaun M. rated 4d ago

Terralta Tequila Blanco 110

91 SCORE

“Terralta 110 – 91/100 Flight: 1579 High-Proof Blanco Blind Showdown Contestants: * Don Vicente Fuerte * Terralta 110 * General Gorostieta High Proof * Volans Still Strength * G4 108 Second in the flight was Terralta 110, a beautifully traditional high-proof blanco that leaned heavily into earthy minerality and fermentation. While it lacked some of the polished texture of the flight winner, it delivered an authentic agave experience built around complexity rather than power. Nose The aroma opens with pronounced minerality accompanied by sweet cooked agave and fresh vegetal notes. As the glass develops, subtle fermentation character begins to emerge, giving the nose additional depth while maintaining excellent balance. Taste The palate immediately showcases sweet cooked agave layered with vegetal character and natural fermentation. The higher proof announces itself with a pleasant tingling sensation that becomes more noticeable with a deep inhale, yet the alcohol remains controlled and never becomes harsh. The overall profile feels earthy, authentic, and unmistakably agave-driven. Finish The finish is long and warming with lingering herbal notes that continue well after each sip. Sweet cooked agave remains present throughout while subtle fermentation, damp vegetal character, and hints of black licorice slowly develop, creating a finish that continues to evolve long after the tequila has been swallowed. Overall Terralta 110 delivers exactly what many enthusiasts seek from a traditionally produced high-proof blanco. Rich minerality, expressive fermentation, cooked agave sweetness, and earthy herbal complexity combine to create a tequila that rewards slow sipping and careful attention. While it finished just behind Don Vicente Fuerte in this blind tasting, its authentic profile and evolving finish made it one of the most memorable pours of the evening. Score: 91/100”

Shaun M. rated 4d ago

Don Vicente Fuerte

92 SCORE

“Don Vicente Fuerte – 92/100 Flight: 1579 High-Proof Blanco Blind Showdown Contestants: * Don Vicente Fuerte * Terralta 110 * General Gorostieta High Proof * Volans Still Strength * G4 108 Don Vicente Fuerte earned the top score in the blind tasting, standing out for its exceptional balance and texture. Rather than relying on overwhelming proof, it showcased a rich mouthfeel, integrated warmth, and a profile that remained focused on cooked agave from beginning to end. Nose The aroma opens with clean minerality accented by light citrus and fresh vegetal notes. Sweet cooked agave develops naturally in the glass, creating an inviting nose that feels vibrant without becoming overly complex. Taste The palate immediately delivers a thick, almost silky mouthfeel. Sweet cooked agave leads the way before black pepper and subtle vegetal notes emerge. Unlike several others in the flight, the alcohol is remarkably well integrated, providing warmth without excessive tingling or heat. The overall balance allows each flavor to develop naturally. Finish The finish is long, warming, and elegant. Sweet cooked agave remains at the forefront while gentle baking spices linger on the palate. Rather than sharp pepper or cinnamon, the spice profile stays soft and rounded, encouraging another sip almost immediately. Overall Don Vicente Fuerte proved to be the most complete tequila in this blind lineup. Its combination of rich texture, balanced proof, sweet cooked agave, pepper, citrus, and restrained baking spice created the most harmonious experience of the flight. Every component worked together without any one characteristic dominating the others, resulting in an exceptionally enjoyable high-proof blanco. Score: 92/100”

Shaun M. rated 6d ago

Irlandés Blanco Tequila

89 SCORE

“Irlandés Blanco (NOM 1588) Product Information * Brand: Irlandés Tequila * Expression: Blanco * NOM: 1588 * Distillery: El Mexicano * Agave: 100% Blue Weber Agave * ABV: 40% (80 Proof) * Additive-Free: Yes Brand Background Irlandés Tequila honors the Irish soldiers of the Saint Patrick’s Battalion who fought alongside Mexico during the Mexican-American War. Produced at NOM 1588, this blanco emphasizes traditional agave character with a profile rooted in minerality and fermentation. Nose Minerality leads the way, followed by fresh cooked agave and noticeable fermentation notes. The aroma is clean, authentic, and inviting, with just enough sweetness to round out the earthy character. Palate A medium-oily, almost creamy mouthfeel coats the tongue nicely. Cooked agave sweetness is joined by black pepper and cinnamon, while the fermentation character reappears on the back half of the sip, adding complexity without overwhelming the agave. The profile remains balanced throughout. Finish A pleasant warmth lingers for a while before fading into a simple, clean finish. It never becomes hot or harsh, making for an easy and enjoyable sip. Overall Irlandés Blanco is a traditional, agave-forward tequila that leans into minerality and fermentation while maintaining a creamy texture and balanced spice. It isn’t trying to be flashy or overly complex, but instead delivers an honest, well-made blanco that’s easy to enjoy and true to its production style. Score 89 / 100”

Shaun M. rated 6d ago

Irlandés Reposado Tequila

89 SCORE

“Irlandés Reposado NOM 1588 Product Information * Brand: Irlandés Tequila * Expression: Reposado * NOM: 1588 * Distillery: El Mexicano * Agave: 100% Blue Weber Agave * ABV: 40% 80 Proof * Additive-Free: Yes Brand Background Irlandés Tequila pays tribute to the Saint Patrick’s Battalion, the Irish soldiers who fought alongside Mexico during the Mexican-American War. Produced at NOM 1588, this reposado is crafted to preserve the character of cooked agave while allowing the barrel to contribute balance rather than dominate the profile. Nose Minerality is followed by notes of oak and light bourbon, with hints of vanilla and a trace of cooked agave. The bourbon influence is more pronounced on the nose than on the palate and slightly tempers the overall first impression. Palate Sweet cooked agave remains the star of the show, supported by caramel and butterscotch. Gentle tannins begin to emerge alongside black pepper, cinnamon, and baking spices. Despite the aromas, the barrel never overwhelms the tequila, allowing the agave character to stay front and center. Finish The oak influence continues without taking over, which keeps the finish balanced and enjoyable. A lingering fermentation note adds complexity, while subtle cinnamon and baking spices provide a pleasant warmth that fades naturally. Overall Irlandés Reposado delivers a thoughtful balance between agave and barrel. While the nose leans more toward oak and bourbon than my personal preference, the palate brings everything back into harmony. The cooked agave remains the focal point throughout, making this a well-crafted reposado for those who enjoy restrained barrel influence without sacrificing the spirit’s character. Score 89 / 100”

Shaun M. rated 6d ago

Alma del Jaguar Añejo

91 SCORE

“Alma del Jaguar Añejo (First Fresh Crack) Nose Leather and tobacco lead the way with toasted oak and a noticeable bourbon-barrel influence. As the glass opens, buttery caramel and light butterscotch emerge, adding richness without becoming overly sweet. Palate More barrel-forward than the reposado, showing warm bourbon oak, leather, tobacco, baking spice, and developing notes of buttery caramel. The agave remains present rather than being overwhelmed by the wood. Finish Medium-long with drying oak, lingering peppery spice, and a vegetal agave character that returns on the finish, keeping the profile grounded in tequila. Overall A richer, more barrel-driven expression than the reposado while still maintaining its agave identity. This is not a tequila that gives you everything in the first sip—it rewards patience. As the glass opened, additional layers of buttery caramel and butterscotch developed, and the overall balance became more enjoyable with each successive sip.”

Shaun M. rated 17d ago

Mijenta Tequila Añejo

91 SCORE

“Mijenta Añejo – Score: 91/100 Flight: Traditional Añejo Flight Contestants: * Terralta Añejo * Tapatío Añejo * El Tesoro Añejo * Mijenta Añejo The final pour of tonight’s añejo flight was Mijenta Añejo. Closing out the lineup, it presented a richer, creamier mouthfeel with an emphasis on fermentation, baking spices, and barrel influence. While the agave remained present, the oak played a more noticeable role throughout the experience. Nose The nose opens with fermentation accompanied by subtle sweetness. The aromas are inviting and hint at the richer style that follows on the palate. Taste The palate is thick, almost creamy, delivering layers of agave sweetness alongside cinnamon, baking spices, and black pepper. The fermentation character adds depth while the mouthfeel provides a luxurious texture that coats the palate beautifully. Finish The finish introduces drying oak tannins that create a pleasant structure while lingering fermentation remains on the palate. Cinnamon, baking spices, and black pepper provide a long, warming finish, with the barrel influence becoming more noticeable as the sip fades. Overall Mijenta Añejo offers a rich, elegant interpretation of traditional añejo. Its creamy texture and layered spice profile make for an enjoyable sip, while the oak contributes noticeable structure through the finish. Although the barrel influence is more pronounced than in El Tesoro, the tequila still delivers a balanced experience with lingering fermentation and agave sweetness. It is a refined añejo that finishes the flight on a strong note. Score: 91/100”

Shaun M. rated 17d ago

El Tesoro Tequila Añejo

93 SCORE

“El Tesoro Añejo – Score: 93 /100 Flight: Traditional Añejo Flight Contestants: * Terralta Añejo * Tapatío Añejo * El Tesoro Añejo * Mijenta Añejo The third pour of tonight’s añejo flight was El Tesoro Añejo. It immediately showcased the balance that has made El Tesoro one of the benchmark traditional tequila producers. The agave remained at the forefront while the barrel added depth and complexity without ever stealing the spotlight. Nose The nose opens with rich cooked agave layered over minerality, gentle oak, and natural fermentation. The aromas are inviting and balanced, with the barrel complementing rather than masking the tequila’s agave-forward character. Taste The palate delivers vibrant agave sweetness followed by cinnamon, black pepper, and well-integrated oak. The mouthfeel is noticeably thicker and oilier than the previous pours, coating the palate and allowing each layer of flavor to develop. The barrel influence adds richness while preserving the cooked agave at the heart of the experience. Finish The finish is long, warm, and satisfying. Lingering fermentation combines with cinnamon and baking spices to create a comforting warmth that stays with you well after the sip. The oak remains balanced throughout the finish, providing structure without becoming overly drying or dominant. Overall El Tesoro Añejo beautifully demonstrates how thoughtful barrel aging can elevate, rather than overshadow, exceptional tequila. The cooked agave remains the star while minerality, fermentation, cinnamon, pepper, and oak all work together in remarkable harmony. The richer mouthfeel and excellent balance make this the most complete pour of the flight so far and another outstanding example of traditional añejo craftsmanship. Score: 93/100”

Shaun M. rated 17d ago

Tapatio Añejo

91 SCORE

“Tapatío Añejo – 91/100 Flight: Traditional Añejo Flight Contestants: * Terralta Añejo * Tapatío Añejo * El Tesoro Añejo * Mijenta Añejo The second pour of tonight’s traditional añejo flight was Tapatío Añejo. Coming after Terralta, it immediately showcased a richer roasted agave profile while maintaining the classic balance that has made Tapatío a benchmark among traditional tequilas. The oak complemented the spirit rather than defining it, allowing the agave to remain the centerpiece. Nose The aroma opens with roasted agave and minerality, followed by gentle oak that adds depth without overwhelming the tequila. The nose is inviting, clean, and well balanced, staying true to its agave-forward roots. Taste The palate delivers cooked agave sweetness up front before layers of cinnamon, black pepper, and well-integrated oak develop across the tongue. The barrel contributes complexity while allowing the roasted agave character to remain the focus, creating a balanced and enjoyable sip. Finish The finish is long and warming, with lingering oak carrying notes of cinnamon, black pepper, and subtle fermentation. The barrel influence remains supportive rather than dominant, leaving a pleasant warmth that encourages another sip. Overall Tapatío Añejo is an excellent example of traditional añejo done right. Roasted agave remains the star while oak, pepper, cinnamon, and baking spices provide depth and complexity without overshadowing the tequila itself. It edges out Terralta in overall balance and value, earning a well-deserved 91/100. While it doesn’t quite reach the exceptional tier in my collection, it is a bottle I’d happily pour again and one I would confidently recommend to anyone looking for a classic, agave-forward añejo.”

Shaun M. rated 17d ago

Terralta Tequila Añejo

90 SCORE

“Terralta Añejo – Score: 90/100 Flight: Añejo Flight Contestants: * Terralta Añejo * Tapatío Añejo * El Tesoro Añejo * Mijenta Añejo Leading off tonight’s añejo flight was Terralta Añejo. As the first pour of the evening, it established a traditional profile that remained true to the distillery’s philosophy. Rather than relying on heavy barrel influence, it balances oak with the mineral-driven, agave-forward character that has become a hallmark of Felipe Camarena’s tequilas. Nose The nose offers classic minerality and wet stone aromas layered with cooked agave, light oak, and a touch of natural fermentation. The barrel is noticeable but restrained, allowing the agave to remain at the forefront while adding depth through gentle baking spice. Taste The palate delivers cinnamon, baking spices, and black pepper supported by subtle bourbon barrel notes. The oak contributes warmth and complexity without completely overshadowing the tequila’s core character. The balance between spice, agave, and barrel remains enjoyable throughout the sip. Finish The finish introduces drying tannins that gradually coat the palate while lingering fermentation provides additional complexity. A pleasant warming sensation develops with a gentle tingling on the tongue. The oak remains present through the finish but never becomes overwhelming. Overall Terralta Añejo is a well-crafted, traditionally produced añejo that successfully balances agave character with thoughtful barrel aging. The minerality, fermentation, pepper, and baking spices remain recognizable, while the oak adds structure rather than dominating the experience. For my palate, it strikes a much more comfortable balance than heavily barrel-driven añejos, making it an enjoyable expression that stays true to its agave roots. Score: 90/100”

Shaun M. rated 17d ago

Siembra Valles Aniversario Joven

92 SCORE

“Siembra Valles Joven – 92/100 Nose The nose opens with mineral notes, agave sweetness, and a clear fermented character. It still shows that traditional Siembra Valles profile with good agave presence and depth. Taste The palate brings cinnamon, pepper, and a stronger barrel influence than the Reposado. Some agave sweetness remains, but the barrel starts to move forward and takes more of the spotlight than I expected. Finish The finish carries pepper and fermentation with some drying tannins from the barrel. While still enjoyable, this loses some of the agave-forward character that made the Blanco and Reposado stand out so much for me. Overall Siembra Valles Joven is still a very well-made tequila with minerality, fermentation, spice, and remaining agave sweetness. However, compared to the Blanco and Reposado, the barrel influence is stronger and slightly pulls it away from the agave-forward profile I usually prefer. It’s an excellent pour, but for my palate, it does not quite reach the same level as the brighter, more agave-driven Siembra Valles expressions. Score: 92/100”

Shaun M. rated 18d ago

Fortaleza Reposado - Winter Blend 2025

86 SCORE

“Fortaleza Winter Blend 2025 – 86/100 Review #100 Reaching my 100th tequila review felt like the perfect occasion to finally open Fortaleza Winter Blend 2025. This is a bottle I had looked forward to for a long time, and while the hype surrounding it is undeniable, I wanted to judge it the same way I’ve judged every other tequila over the past one hundred reviews—based solely on what was in the glass. For this milestone review, I tasted the Winter Blend using my Denver & Liely Agave glass, which has become my preferred glass for evaluating aroma, texture, and flavor throughout this journey. Nose The nose opens with classic Fortaleza minerality accompanied by cooked agave sweetness. Soft barrel notes and baking spices quickly follow, creating an inviting aroma that balances traditional agave character with the influence of oak. It’s pleasant and well-made without being overwhelmingly expressive. Taste The palate begins with cooked agave sweetness before layers of black pepper, cinnamon, and baking spices develop. The tahona production shows itself through a slightly oily, almost creamy mouthfeel that coats the tongue nicely. As the sip develops, however, the barrel influence becomes increasingly dominant. Oak tannins introduce a noticeable dryness that gradually push the agave into the background. Finish The finish offers lingering warmth with a gentle tingling sensation across the tongue. Fermentation notes remain present long after the sip, while the cinnamon and baking spices soften. The agave sweetness is still there, but for my palate it becomes somewhat buried beneath the bourbon barrel character, making the finish less enjoyable than I had hoped. Overall Fortaleza Winter Blend 2025 is unquestionably a well-crafted tequila that showcases traditional production and careful barrel aging. The minerality, tahona texture, fermentation, and natural agave character are all evident throughout the experience. For my personal palate, however, the barrel influence eventually overtakes the agave, particularly on the finish. After one hundred reviews, I’ve learned that I consistently prefer tequilas where the agave remains the star of the show. This is an excellent bottle, but it doesn’t quite align with my preferred flavor profile, and the premium price makes it difficult to justify a higher value score. One hundred reviews have taught me that rarity and reputation don’t determine a score—the tequila in the glass does. That made Fortaleza Winter Blend 2025 the perfect bottle for this milestone. Not because it received my highest score, but because it reminded me how much my palate has evolved and reinforced the importance of judging every pour honestly. Score: 86/100”

Shaun M. rated 18d ago

Cascahuín Añejo

95 SCORE

“Cascahuín Añejo (Lote 82) – 95/100 Flight: 1123 Vertical Showdown Contestants: * Wild Common Reposado * Wild Common Blanco (Lote 02) * Wild Common Still Strength (Lote 03) * Cascahuín Añejo (Lote 82) Closing out the flight was Cascahuín Añejo (Lote 82). After three outstanding Wild Common expressions, this añejo immediately showed why Cascahuín has earned such a loyal following. Rather than burying the agave beneath heavy oak, it allows the barrel to complement the distillate while preserving the character that makes the distillery so recognizable. Nose The aroma opens with classic Cascahuín minerality layered with soft barrel spices and a gentle agave sweetness. The oak is elegant rather than dominant, creating a nose that feels mature while remaining fresh and inviting. Taste The palate delivers rich cooked agave sweetness supported by cinnamon, black pepper, and a noticeably thicker mouthfeel. The barrel adds depth and structure without overshadowing the agave, resulting in a beautifully balanced sip that continues to evolve across the palate. Finish The finish is long, warm, and satisfying. Lingering agave sweetness is joined by cinnamon and gentle baking spices, while a pleasant tingling sensation develops on the tongue. A subtle wave of fermentation arrives late, adding another layer of complexity that keeps the finish interesting long after the sip is gone. Overall Cascahuín Añejo is an outstanding example of what an additive-free añejo can be. The barrel enhances the tequila rather than redefining it, allowing the cooked agave, minerality, spice, and fermentation to remain the stars of the show. It is refined, balanced, and deeply enjoyable—a bottle that showcases maturity without sacrificing the identity of the spirit underneath. Score: 95/100”

Shaun M. rated 18d ago

Wild Common Tequila Blanco Still Strength

95 SCORE

“Wild Common Still Strength Blanco (Lote 03) – 95/100 Flight: 1123 Vertical Showdown Contestants: * Wild Common Reposado * Wild Common Blanco * Wild Common Still Strength * Cascahuín Añejo Third in the flight was Wild Common Still Strength Blanco (Lote 03). Building on the exceptional standard blanco, this higher-proof expression amplifies the distillery’s signature profile with additional richness and intensity while remaining remarkably balanced. Nose The aroma opens with pronounced minerality and natural fermentation accompanied by subtle vegetal notes. A rustic earthy quality—almost reminiscent of wet stone with a touch of “wet dog” funk—gives the nose authenticity and depth, showcasing the traditional production behind the bottle. Taste The palate immediately delivers rich cooked agave sweetness before unfolding into layers of black pepper, cinnamon, and lively fermentation. The mouthfeel is exceptionally thick and coating, allowing the higher proof to carry each flavor with precision while remaining balanced and approachable. Finish The finish is long, warm, and satisfying. Lingering fermentation, baking spices, and cooked agave sweetness continue to evolve after each sip. The warmth gently numbs the tongue in the best possible way, creating a lasting finish that encourages another pour. Overall Wild Common Still Strength Blanco is an outstanding expression that showcases everything great about traditional tequila production. The elevated proof enhances the sweetness, spice, minerality, and texture without overwhelming the agave. While it delivers more intensity than the standard blanco, it remains beautifully balanced and exceptionally drinkable. It is a still-strength tequila that demonstrates power without sacrificing elegance. Score: 95/100”

Shaun M. rated 18d ago

Wild Common Tequila Blanco

95 SCORE

“Wild Common Blanco (Lote 07) – 95/100 Flight: 1123 Vertical Showdown Contestants: * Wild Common Reposado * Wild Common Blanco * Wild Common Still Strength * Cascahuín Añejo Second in the flight was Wild Common Blanco (Lote 07). After an outstanding reposado, this expression strips away the barrel influence and lets the agave shine. The result is a tequila that is rich, expressive, and beautifully balanced from nose to finish. Nose The aroma opens with pronounced minerality and natural fermentation, accompanied by subtle vegetal notes. The nose is clean and authentic, allowing the cooked agave to build with time in the glass. Taste The palate immediately showcases sweet cooked agave before layers of black pepper, cinnamon, and baking spices develop. The mouthfeel is thick and almost creamy, coating the tongue while maintaining excellent balance. Every sip reinforces that the agave is the star of the show. Finish The finish is long, warm, and inviting. Cooked agave sweetness lingers alongside subtle fermentation and a gentle warming spice that slowly fades. The finish continues to evolve after each sip, making it difficult to put the glass down. Overall Wild Common Blanco is an exceptional expression of traditionally made tequila. The combination of rich cooked agave, minerality, fermentation, pepper, and cinnamon creates a profile that feels both vibrant and complete. The creamy texture and outstanding finish elevate an already excellent tequila into truly memorable territory. This is the kind of blanco that reminds you why agave should always be the focus. Score: 95/100”