Review: Tequila Pantalones Extra Anejo

Matthew McConaughey’s suggestive tequila brand recently dropped its first limited edition, an extra anejo expression of their signature organic tequila. In classic McConaughey style, the ageless Texas movie star offered a memorable one-liner, comparing his latest liquid creation to “a favorite couch with just a little extra cushion to it.” I’ve never heard a tequila compared to a couch, and I’m not exactly sure what he means. But like most people who listen to the man talk, I’m somehow still enthralled.

That “extra cushion” he’s referencing may be the 36 months of barrel aging that this latest Pantalones release undergoes. Ever the proud Lone Star Stater, Mr. McConaughey reportedly sourced the bourbon barrels for this release from a Texas distillery (or distilleries). Let’s kick the tires on this one, shall we?

Tequila Pantalones Extra Anejo Review

While those Texas bourbon barrels have clearly added a lot of character and depth, there’s still plenty of the classic Pantalones style at the core of this expression. The aroma is bright and expressive, not nearly the brooding vanilla or butterscotch bombs of some extra anejos. Despite three years in oak, the citrusy energy of lemon oil and lime zest, a highlight of the blanco, are well-represented and a welcome contrast to barrel-driven notes of vanilla cream and caramel candies. It’s mildly sweet initially but becomes more herbal and a little savory as it opens, adding notes of roasted agave, grass clippings, and brioche.

The palate is clean and light, drinking perhaps more like a reposado than an extra anejo with subtle, airy barrel notes of cinnamon sugar, cocoa powder, and marshmallow. Like the aroma, there’s plenty of the house style on display, especially on the midpalate where the vanillas and caramelized sugar notes shift more to limeade, agave syrup, and bruised mint. The finish is soft – perhaps a touch thin – but fades out with a sweet, creamy Key lime pie note. A unique extra anejo that should appeal to tequila purists and casual drinkers alike.

80 proof. NOM 1614.

A- / $99

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