For this Agave Club selection, we were thrilled to work with the good folks at Cazcanes with a selection of single barrel tequilas they've been holding back. The whiskey world is well used to single barrel bottlings at this point, but it is still relatively new turf in the world of aged agave spirits. Whereas many producers may pride themselves on their ability to blend to a consistent and appealing profile each and every time, it's a real delight for curious drinkers to be able to try individual barrels, each one a unique character. You see variations in so many things while actually appreciating what really defines a "house style" of different distilleries. The details all come out to play and the puzzle falls into place. We've always been fans in particular of their 100 Proof bottlings, and this single barrel version takes things to yet another level.
Cazcanes also happens to be the kind of producer that rewards paying attention to the details. There's a real focus on the raw material and on letting the character of the agave come through rather than sanding everything down into a generic "smooth" spirit. We fell in love with this barrel, Barrel 31 - originally a Four Roses bourbon barrel, for exactly that character. It feels expressive without feeling like it's trying too hard to prove a point. In the glass, the first thing that comes through is cooked agave, followed by ripe fruit and bright citrus. From there, things get a little more nerdy: herbal and vegetal notes, savory pepper, and a distinct mineral quality that gives the spirit some backbone. There's a lovely richness to the texture, too—lush without becoming heavy, with enough acidity and earthiness to keep everything in check. The finish brings the agave back around, with lingering fruit, pepper, and mineral notes. It's complex without being fussy, distinctive without being difficult. Ultimately, this a bottle for the curious drinker, whether your idea of research is a tasting notebook or simply pouring another glass, because this one will keep you coming back either way.
