Square Bottle. 2010 Marbete.

2007 Marbete tax stamp Nose: In the order that they weighed in: Light oak, super ripe dark cherry/berry notes, mineral earthiness, vanilla laced with nutmeg and luxurious mature agave. A lot going on, but not a real forceful nose. Flavor: More bang in the mouth than the nosing belied. Cinnamon, cloves and tickling pepper. Silky in the mouth. Round, mellow butterscotch, almond cream and vanilla. Agave complemented with light woody notes. The wood being more of a cedar-like wood than oak. Finish: Pepper, licorice and a touch of maple syrup. Lengthy, with the tiniest hint a bitterness. This is rich - could be a dessert tequila.

Marbete from 2007 Nose: First pass brings oak and barrel spice. This quickly takes on vanilla and butterscotch tones. Pleasant ripe fruit and bold mature agave. Light cellar and earth notes. Flavor: Caramel, almond, nutmeg with a black pepper kick. Robust barrel spices. The slightest bit of bitterness at the tail end. Finish: Butterscotch and pepper dominate a fairly long finish.

I am not a fan of Cristalino tequilas. I think it’s a overhyped fad and I’ve usually been disappointed. My opinion has changed on this tequila! The aroma is very pleasant and inviting of more swirls in the glass. The flavor is subtle and rich with a little sweetness. The finish is outstanding with your tastebuds asking for more. I highly recommend!