Spirit Reviews

93

E. Cuarenta Tequila Añejo, Mexico, 80 Proof ($50)

Aged in once-used American oak, this Tequila tastes of salty brine and caramel molasses, while presenting an indelibly smooth midpalate and ample length. Sippable on its own, it will add complexity and weighty intensity to any cocktail.

93

E. Cuarenta Tequila Reposado, 80 Proof ($55)

Aged in twice-used American oak, this Reposado is salty and confectionary, with woody overtones of oak and spice. The smooth texture leads to a powerful finish while showing complex and concentrated sophistication along the way.

93

Godet Cognac V.S. Classic ($33)

From a family-run distillery that has existed for more than 400 years in La Rochelle, this powerful Cognac is double-distilled and aged three years in oak cask. It offers lovely aromas and flavors of pear, light vanilla, a hint of cherry and aged leather amidst a woody backbone.

94

Godet Cognac V.S.O.P Original ($40)

Integrated tannins surround an inherent floral quality in this deep and intensely layered Cognac, a blend of different aged Cognac up to 10 years in oak cask. Velvety smooth and luxurious on the palate, it begins in pear, peach and mandarin orange notes that lead to woody baking spice undertones and a finishing touch of nutty hazelnut.

96

Godet Cognac X.O. Terre ($150)

The longest-aged offering in Godet’s portfolio is a blend of Cognacs aged 10 to 30 years in oak casks. This is a powerfully complex, spiced and honeyed spirit that is immensely contemplative, quaffable and yet pretty in subtle floral aromas. The subtlety leads to a decadently long, complex and densely layered core of baking spice, black pepper, warm vanilla and oak. This Cognac sources from all six of the appellation’s Crus.

93

Goodnight Loving Vodka ($20)

Made in Texas from a father-son team who source spring water from an unknown aquifer on the family ranch, this begins with American-sourced corn, and is gluten-free. Impressively smooth and seductive, it offers focused citrus aromas and a clean, refined palate that would work well in a Martini.

91

HARDHIDE Ponchatoula Strawberry Whiskey, USA, 86 proof ($ ?)

Ponchatoula, located about an hour north of New Orleans, is said to be the strawberry capital of the world. The authentic strawberry notes are fresh and mocha-tipped, while the whiskey is sippin’ smooth. Perfect for cocktails or over ice, the balance is perceptible, with no burn and not overly fruity.

90

Hetchy Vodka, USA, 80 Proof ($20)

From a distillery founded in San Francisco, the water used to make this gluten-free vodka is sourced in Northern California. With a lemony nose, the flavors follow thematically in lime peel, lime salt and wet stone, with a lengthy finish that is round and smooth.