Centinela 3 yr. Anejo - NOM - 1140 - 40%
In 2006, the classification extra anejo was certified for tequilas aged longer than 3 years. This Centinela pre-dates that rule so it still carries the anejo designation.
From 2008 on Tequila.Net: Tequila Centinela was established in 1904 and was the first distillery located in Arandas, Jalisco. Centinela means "the one to watch and keep"... Our Agaves take approximately 8 years to mature, and are hand-picked at their peak from our own Agave fields. We also buy 20% from local producers to help the region's economy. Our Jimador's are hired as full time workers and are paid a salary. The Jimador's are trained to cut the pencas extremely close to the pina to prevent any bitter flavors during cooking.
We use a clay oven that gives our cooked Agaves a smoky flavor, and a sweet after taste....This process takes approximately 24 hours.
For the extraction or the grinding process, we have 2 mills with 5 press each, they crush and wash the fibers in a gentle way. The reason is not to tear the fibers... Our yeast is natural and it comes from the environment, and is controlled. This process takes from 3 to 5 days, as the yeast starts converting the sugars into alcohol.
The first distillation is called "destrozamiento" (5 hours), we get rid of the "heads and tails" (colas y cabezas) and the heart in this process is called "ordinario". The second distillation is called "rectificacion" (10 hours), again we cut the "heads and tails", and now the heart of the second distillation is called Tequila.
We age our Tequilas in previously used 200 liter American White oak bourbon barrels.
Notes: Nose is totally unique - malted chocolate balls (got this in the old school, Centinela Repo too), vegetal with fresh agave. Pine. Minerality. Great layers of both fresh and aged notes. Fennel driven on the palate. Fresh green peppers. Light sweetness. Very little oak. Delicate but active structure. Clear notes. Lots of complexity.
Score: 8 (Stash One) Very layered - nose to finish. Soft touch with the wood keeps this drinking light and fresh and preserves the complexity.
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 - Anything Else To Drink?
2 - Nothing Nice To Say
1 - Drain Pour