The Single Barrel Tequila Experience

Recently, we were honored when Cazcanes produced a single-barrel tequila for us – Cazcanes No.9 Reposado Single Barrel/Cask Strength #1.

Tasting a single-barrel tequila can be a unique and enjoyable experience, as each barrel can produce a slightly different flavor profile. Here are a few tips to help you get the most out of your tasting experience:

Use a proper glass: A tequila snifter or a wine glass are ideal, as they help concentrate the aroma and flavors.
Look at the color: The tequila’s color can indicate the age and the quality of the spirit. Aged tequilas will typically have a darker color than younger tequilas.
Smell: Take a moment to smell the tequila before you taste it. This will help you to identify different aromas, such as fruit, spices, and wood.
Taste: Take a small sip and let it sit on your tongue before you swallow. This will help you to identify different flavors, such as sweetness, bitterness, and acidity.
Take notes: Keep a notebook handy to record your impressions of the tequila, including the aroma, flavor, and finish. This will help you to remember the details of each barrel you taste.
Compare: Try to taste different barrels of the same tequila or tequilas from the same distillery to compare and contrast the different flavors and aromas.
Enjoy! Don’t rush; take your time and enjoy the experience, and remember to drink responsibly.

Lastly, here’s a simple tip to enhance the experience.

Adding a few drops of water to tequila can help open up the spirit’s flavors and aromas. Water can help to soften the alcohol burn and bring out subtler flavors and aromas that may be hidden behind the alcohol. The dilution also allows the flavors to linger longer on the palate, making the tequila more enjoyable to sip.

When adding water to tequila, it’s important to use high-quality, filtered water, as impurities in the water can negatively impact the flavor and aroma of the tequila. A few drops of water are all needed, as too much can dilute tequila and take away from the overall experience.

As always, it’s a matter of personal preference and experimentation. Try a sip of tequila neat, and then add a few drops of water to see how it changes the flavor profile.