Review: El Tequileno Reposado Rare

For El Tequileño’s Reposado Rare expression the appellation “rare” is more fitting than meets the eye. By law reposados are required to be aged for less than one year, but El Tequileño circumvents these rules by maturing this limited edition tequila in a massive 25,000 liter American oak container known as a pipón for 6 whole years. The size of the container makes all the difference in its designation. As a result, this 100% additive-free expression reaches a depth of flavor and complexity uncommon among reposados while being aged for twice as long as many extra añejos.

Offering a unique tasting experience unlike any other on the market, Reposado Rare is a real treat from the moment the liquid tumbles into your glass as aromas of bruised pineapple, crisp agave syrup, and paprika rush to meet the nose. The flavor wheel keeps spinning as floral aspects are buoyed atop a slight butterscotch undercurrent – courtesy of that extra aging – which makes for an intriguing medley. As other spices like pepper and cinnamon combine with a touch of potting soil to round out the aromas the palate becomes sufficiently whetted.

After one sip, the taste of honey and honeydew melon meets black pepper and vanilla, coating the mouth before receding crisply with an arboraceous note providing the faint indication of oak on the finish. This is a tequila that forces you to take notice of its nuance and delivers on the lofty expectations that come with any liquid commanding a three-figure sum. Cooked agave, citric sweetness, and cherry flavors continue to come out in spades after repeat sips, rewarding those patient enough to sit and appreciate the rose hued spirit at length.

Just because there’s nothing like it doesn’t mean it’s incomparable, but this is the – yes, rare – case where El Tequileño Reposado Rare earns every bit of its name in the best way possible. At $200 you would be forgiven for giving pause before purchasing this bottle; however, it’s more likely that you’ll be sorry for passing on it when it’s all gone.

80 proof. NOM 1108.

A / $200 / tequileno.com

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