G4 Reposado Single Barrel - Bien Trucha Group - 40%
I've just started getting an idea of the expected variation between different lotes (batches) of tequila. Having only tasted a handful of single barrel tequilas, I'm wondering whether there's a higher expected degree of variation between two different lotes or between different single barrels from the same lote. Probably gonna have to try a lot more single barrel tequila to solve this mystery.
This barrel was selected by the Bien Trucha Group which started with one restaurant (just 4 tables in Geneva, IL) before eventually birthing a successful group that includes: Bien Trucha, a toda madre, Quiubo, Santo Cielo, and Lil Donkeys. The group is primarily run by expats from Mexico City and based off their agave list at Quiubo, they know and love traditionally made spirits. With to-go cocktails laws ever evolving during the pandemic, many bars have begun to offer sample packs for sale to generate new revenue streams. When I saw Quiubo's quality list, I put together a nice size sample pack that I'm looking forward to working through in the New Year.
Nose: Chalky and mineral driven. Fresh peppers. Caramel.
Flavor: Sweet and vegetal on the palate. Caramel and sweet peppers. Faint mint in finish.
Structure: Dense on the palate. Very integrated. Light, drying finish.
Alcohol Integration: Could use a slight bump to open up the palate and structure.
Score: 7 (Highly Recommended) This one is rich with just enough complexity to keep it well balanced. One of the heavier G4 profiles I've tried, included the 5 yr. and 55 XA. A worthwhile bottle to grab. Not as complex or floral as the standard expression I reviewed last week, but well within my wheelhouse.
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The vegetal and mineral driven nose with rich caramel on the palate was very similar to this great Binny's pick.
El Tesoro Reposado Binny’s #1 B095-L264 - NOM 1139 - 40.4%
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