Spirit Reviews

97

Ron Carúpano Añejo Reserva 18-Year-Old, Venezula

The lilting aromas of marzipan and peach lead to a gentle spirit, round and wafting with flavors of butterscotch, peanut brittle, peach nectar, and cedar closet. Luscious and rich, with a finish of orange peel and mocha latte. As stylish and elegant as one would imagine in an aged rum. Aged in American oak barrels; 80 proof.

98

Ron Carúpano Privada Reserva 21-Year-Old, Venezuela

Aging in American oak adds nuances to its heady perfume of coffee, cocoa, and crème brûlée. Spiced notes of cedar are surrounded by orange zest, white pepper, walnut paste, and banana bread. Lush, semi-dry flavors of sarsaparilla lead to a soothing finish to please the tastebuds, of earth and burnt almonds. 80 proof.

94

3 Tres Tequila Añejo, Mexico ($75 for 750 ml)

Subdued notes of toasted cocoa bean and sun tea offer an ethereal quality, with a streak of minerality. Its bold nature is soon to be revealed at mid-palate, with black pepper, cigar leaf, and charred cedar creating a crescendo of intensity.

94

3 Tres Tequila Blanco, Mexico ($43 for 750ml)

With a nose of vanilla-blueberry and bright earth tones, it poses a delicate entry mirroring its aromas. Vanilla marshmallow and clay, Brazil nuts and a fine salinity are highlights of this layered spirit. Anise adds a creamy texture on the lengthy finish.

95

3 Tres Tequila Reposado, Mexico ($45 for 750 ml)

Woodsy and spiced, an exotic array of clove, sarsaparilla, and hazelnut reveals itself on first sip. Cinnamon-clove and lemon verbena drape over the palate for a satisfying ending.

94

AgaveLuz Añejo Organic Tequila ($100)

Earthy and spicy, with a hint of black peppered coffee bean. Minerality is cleanly positioned as the foundation of this bold expression. Finishes with tobacco and walnut.

95

AgaveLuz Blanco, Valentina Edition Organic Tequila ($60)

Sea breeze aromas are focused on salt and persimmon. Creamy on the palate, with a dense wash of anise, graphite, and cocoa. Cherries are in step with ripe pineapple on the luxe finish.

95

AgaveLuz Extra Añejo Organic Tequila ($490)

Aged 12 years, cedar wraps around the tongue, with brush strokes of black cherry, bittersweet dark chocolate, and burnished leather. Complex, with a dry, stony finish.