GUINIGI

Spirit Reviews

94

Skip Rock Straight Rye Whiskey ($39)

Made with local grain in Snohomish, Washington, this Rye was aged a minimum of two years in barrel. Salty molasses, spice and mango flavors build around a foundation of dry intensity and dried fruit, making for an immensely flavorful and memorable experience on the palate.

99

Tres Tribus Espadin Capon Mezcal, Mexico, 88 Proof ($106)

Aromas of ripe agave are adorned with marzipan, sweet smoke, pineapple, and minerals in soil. Balanced ripeness for an exquisite mouthfeel and just a quick shock of heat. The reveal of almond butter, dried mango and vanilla latte plays well with the rich agave notes. Earthy and powerful, the nuance of orange peel and vanilla lingers on the finish.

92

Trinity Bay Gin, USA ($25)

Made in Ukiah, California, this 92-proof Gin delivers compelling aromas of juniper berry, black peppercorn and lemon peel, all of which make for an inviting foundation for the crisp, clean and flavorful palate that follows.

91

Trinity Bay Vodka, USA, 80 Proof ($23)

Previously made in Siberia, Russia, this Vodka is now made in Ukiah, California at a family-run distillery with grain grown in America. Opening in notes of peppery spice and slate, it packs upfront power with a sophisticated finish of lemon peel.

91

Tycoon VSOP Cognac, France, 80 Proof ($70)

Dark amber in color, this is the rich, learned cousin of the Tycoon VS, showing notes of red apple, baking spice and black pepper. A hint of jalapeno gives it an edgy undertone of racy spice while the palate remains lengthy and deeply concentrated, with a rich mouthfeel of Tahitian vanilla and woody oak.

92

Villa One Tequila Silver, Mexico, 80 Proof ($40)

Aromas of fresh pineapple, marshmallow and clay blossom and reunite on the palate. Marked by a tingle of sea salt, vanilla, and white beans that emerge through a lace curtain. Cooked agave and tropical fruit notes shine through to the finish.

90

Blackford Artisan Blend Scotch Whiskey ($25)

Peppered peaches and caramel cedar combine for a feisty start. Walnut tannins brace on the palate for a devilish zing. From one of the few independent distilleries in Glasgow, this spirit has a youthful presence.

94

Blackletter Straight Bourbon Whiskey, USA, 90 proof ($60)

After completing its two-year stint in American oak, this small batch whiskey finishes in Blackletter cabernet Sauvignon barrel staves. Created by winemaker Adam LaZarre, high-flying aromas of pecan pie, ripe banana, aged red wine, and singed orange peel are compelling. On the palate, a nectar of peppered Luxardo cherry mingles with a potpourri of tobacco, dark chocolate almond and toffee. Remarkably straightforward and focused.