Review: Siembra Valles High Proof
Siembra Valles High Proof Blanco - 47%
From Siembra Valles: High Proof features a tahona (stone wheel), bagasse to spark fermentation, and months of resting in glass demijohns. Corn-cob-capped demijohns allow micro-oxygenation, helping us distill to proof without masking delicate aromas and flavors.
The website goes into a ton more detail as well.
Notes: Right from the nose this is in the vein of one of my favorite high proof blancos, Calle 23 Criollo - bright: minerality, pollen, florals with some deep vegetal notes supporting. The palate carries the elevated proof well. More of the same from the nose - top note heavy - florals, pollen, crisp vegetal notes. Running underneath everything is a light natural sweetness - piloncillo, overripe honeydew. Medium and balanced on the finish. Very balanced structure as well.
Score: 8 (Stash One) Whenever high proof and balanced show up in my notes, it's high praise. Across spirits, I feel the default is starting to err on the side of proof for proof's sake. High proof blancos like this that strike a balance with the ABV, structure, and depth of flavor are a lovely response to that trend.
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