Chinaco Blanco - NOM 1127 (BJ) - 40%
NOM 1079 (Unicorn Part: 2) got me into tequila treasure hunting but it didn't take long to chase Germán Gonzalez's Chinaco bottlings. Gonzalez left Chinaco in 2007 to pursue other projects (including enthusiast favorite, Tears of Llorona). Chinaco bottles distilled under his watch are prized for two reasons: the high quality of the tequila and the historical significance of the brand. Chinaco was a pioneer tequila that changed the game back in the 1980s, putting premium 100% agave tequila on the map in the US.
I've tasted about a half dozen F&J Gonzalez tear drops. They've all been muscular, drinking pleasantly overproof with robust structures and expressive notes - natural marshmallow, butterscotch, candied citrus. I've yet to try one I didn't like.
Nose: Out of this world. Simultaneously bright and baked. Orange. Big marshmallow. Nougat. I’ve loved every F&J Chinaco nose I’ve run across.
Flavor: Fruity up front - tangerine. Marshmallow again. We’re almost to orange creamsicle. Drying blast of minerality settling into a pleasant bitterness.
Structure: Lots of action. Ramps up and spikes right away (not much dilution?). Closes with a few drying waves.
Alcohol Integration: Weight and texture are fantastic: pillow-y. Drinks overproof and pleasantly punchy for 40% ABV.
Score: 9 (Stash Two) Craveworthy. Glass went down way faster than usual. Haven’t stopped thinking about it since.
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Rating System
10 - Reevaluate The Budget
9 - Stash Two (If Able)
8 - Stash One (At The Right Price)
7 - Highly Recommend It To Strangers
6 - Solid - Above Average
5 - Acceptable For The Situation
4 - Not Vocally Complaining
3 - Wish I Was Drinking Something Else
2 - Nothing Nice To Say
1 - Drain Pour