Review: Mijenta Tequila Blanco Maestra Selection No. 2

Last year, Mijenta Tequila launched the first in a series of new special editions called Maestra Selection, each intended to explore a rare facet of tequila and agave production. Selction No. 1 was a high-proof blanco make only from agaves grown from seed. Selection No. 2 is not about how agave plants are grown but where, made using agave sourced from one estate in each of the five states where tequila can be legally produced — Guanajuato, Jalisco, Michoacan, Nayarit, and Tamaulipas. (This expression was produced at NOM 1412, it’s older distillery partner.)

For this release, Mijenta’s Maestra Tequilera Ana María Romero wanted to explore how the incredibly diverse soil, climate, elevation and cultivation practices across Mexico impact the flavors of the agave. Shaped by each state’s unique ecosystem and traditions, Romero found that the agaves develop drastically different taste profiles.

“Mexico is a country of immense beauty, both culturally and naturally, and this tequila offered an opportunity to celebrate both of those aspects,” Romero said. “Beginning my career in wine, I’ve been fascinated by terroir, and I was amazed to see how different the taste profiles are for each state’s agaves as they are shaped by the local environmental conditions. From the caramel and spice of Guanajuato, to the citrus and red fruit of Michoacan, to the preserved fruits, herbs and almond of Nayarit, to the mint, fresh grass, sage and spices of Tamaulipas, to the herbal and citrus notes of Jalisco, this tequila is crafted to allow the unique personalities of each state to shine through in every sip.”

Sourced from single estates in each of the five territories, the agaves for this release were distilled separately and then masterfully blended to create a final profile that is rich and complex.

The unique five-sided bottle also pays homage to the five states from which the agaves for the expression were sourced.

Let’s dig in.

Mijenta Tequila Blanco Maestra Selection No. 2 Review

Bright and salty on the nose, Maestra #2 offers aromas that would be right at home in a martini (Mexican or otherwise) — briny green olives, lemon peel, and lime leaf, all sparring for dominance against aromas driven by crisp, herbaceous, and rather grassy agave.

The palate somehow feels even sunnier and more effusive, with flavors of fresh lime and lemon juice bursting on the tongue. As the midpalate arrives a reprise of olive emerges, with subtle notes of anise building in earnest. The citrus never fades, crisp fruit notes biting well into the finish, where a slick of vanilla cream and a grind of white pepper await you. The fade-out is clean and refreshing, inviting the next sip of the night almost immediately.

This is glorious on its own but it might be a bit too much for a margarita — unless you like them super salty — and again I think a Mexican martini is the go-to cocktail for this, should you wish to mix with it. Straight toasts by a campfire, I think, are the best way to go.

80 proof. NOM 1412.

A / $84

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