GUINIGI

Spirit Reviews

97

Bomberger’s PFG Kentucky Straight Bourbon, USA 100.2 proof ($140)

PFG stands for the Precision Fine Grain oak barrels in which the liquid is finished. As Michter’s first release of this expression, Master Distiller Dan McKee pointed out that the texture and richness of the whiskey “results from our team’s thoughtful exploration of wood science under very specific conditions.” The finishing barrels hail from some of France’s most prestigious forests. At this proof, the nose exhibits zero heat. Aromas of cedar closet, dried figs, and dates are soothing. Flavors of sarsaparilla, walnut, egg cream, and battered chocolate cookie dough are among the layers of a luxe creaminess that embodies its character. The burnished crème brulée finish integrates with notes of Italian herbs, cinnamon spice, and apricot jam.

96

Escasa Tequila Blanco, ($100)

Its named translates as scarcity, and true, this small production spirit is made only for a select few is a rare find. It shows its unique qualities through aromas of spearmint, fresh agave, wet stone, and spiced jasmine rice. The liquid sails smoothly across the palate, prickling the tongue with black pepper, capers, and a bite of jalapeño. Mid-point notes of blue flowers tone down the jolt, and bring forward unctuous notes of vanilla bean and blueberry.

93

Southbound Tequila Añejo ($70)

Aromas of sarsaparilla, almond, and cocoa are subtle and elegant. Dusty cocoa, peach, and a hint of lanolin are luxuriously exhibited in the biscuity, brandy-like finish.

92

Southbound Tequila Blanco ($40)

Aromas of vanilla cream, white flowers, and plum blossom are subtle and pretty. With a point of white pepper, and a stark mineral tone, there’s a creamy, unctuous mouthfeel beneath its delicate demeanor.

93

Southbound Tequila Reposado ($45)

Sensuously smooth, with an expressive style. Candied ginger, sage, and a lengthy, spiced hazelnut adds to its woodsy character.

93

Alma del Jaguar Añejo ($80)

A complex blend of two different tequilas—one fermented with wild yeast and the other with Champagne yeast—and three distinct oak-aging stints has resulted in an añejo of complexity and notable delicacy. It’s all marked by banana bread and mineral flavors, as well as warm vanilla, brown sugar caramel, and citrus oils.

93

Alma del Jaguar Nocturna, High-proof, Fall ’24 Seasonal Release ($71)

This single-estate, wild-yeast-fermented, additive-free tequila carries its 101 proof with real elegance. Sweet, crystalline flavors of citrus oils and orange marmalade shine alongside saline notes of mineral and roasted bell peppers. A star anise lift marks the spice-kissed finish.

94

Evil Bean Cold Brew Coffee Liqueur, USA ($30)

From Minden Mill Distillery in Nevada, this 50- proof, high desert estate spirit delivers a most aromatic coffee aroma. Piquant notes of red pepper surprises while bittersweet dark chocolate and Luxardo cherry dive into a maelstrom of espresso and caramel. Bravo for the satin-lined mouthfeel on the finish that hangs on and begs for more as it spreads across the palate.