Professional Tasting Notes: Tres Tiempos Don Jatt Artisanal Ensamble
I recently had the distinct pleasure of experiencing the Tres Tiempos Don Jatt Artisanal Ensamble Agave Spirit – Limited Edition Tobalá Tepezate. This expression is not just a spirit; it’s a testament to tradition, terroir, and the masterful hand of Master Distiller Diego Lucas Garcia, crafted at 5,000 feet in San Luis Amatlán, Oaxaca. This is truly a rare and exceptional release that demands attention.
Nose – The initial approach to this ensamble is a captivating journey. The nose immediately reveals a harmonious blend of earth and bright fruit. You’re greeted by the comforting scent of roasted agave, deeply rooted in the damp forest floor notes imparted by the traditional earthen oven. A vibrant hint of green bell pepper and the luscious sweetness of sun-ripened mango beautifully uplifts this earthy foundation. A subtle, elegant whisper of smokiness, a signature of the copper pot distillation, adds a profound depth, truly promising a multifaceted experience on the palate.
Palate – Upon tasting, the palate unfolds with a full-bodied and elegantly structured character. The Tobalá agave distinctly contributes a creamy, mineral-driven texture, adorned with rich flavors of cooked stone fruit. Complementing this, the Tepezate introduces a lively, herbaceous spiciness that leads into a remarkably distinctive and long, vegetal finish. As the spirit evolves on the tongue, nuanced notes of white pepper, bright citrus zest, and a delicate touch of pine resin emerge, creating a truly dynamic and evolving taste profile that keeps you engaged sip after sip.
Finish – The finish is nothing short of exceptional – long and impeccably clean, leaving a gentle, lingering warmth that gracefully fades. It presents a delicate balance of the inherent sweet agave, a pleasant earthy minerality, and a final flourish of savory spice, compelling you to savor every intricate moment.
Bottled at a robust 49.8% ABV, the Don Jatt Artisanal Ensamble is a pure and authentic expression of Oaxacan heritage. Each batch is a testament to time-honored techniques, from the wild-harvested agaves roasted slowly in earthen ovens to the wooden pallet milling and distillation in small copper pot stills. This meticulous process preserves the nuanced flavors and aromas, delivering an extraordinary and truly memorable ensemble. For those seeking an agave spirit that embodies depth, complexity, and a profound connection to its origins, the Tres Tiempos Don Jatt Artisanal Ensamble is an absolute must-experience.
