On the nose, heavy French oak. This smells almost like cognac to me. Some leathery notes, a bit of chocolate and slight citrus. Something like candied fruit, and the barest hint of agave. Really, the cognac aromas are overwhelming for me. On the palate, definitely that French oak comes through heavily. Grape, candied fruit. Cocoa. If you are a cognac lover, this will likely be a hit with you. I, unfortunately, am not. This is a respectable tequila and hid in its way, but this one isn’t for me.

Got this for a steal at $79 Very different but nice and complex XA. Has a very bitter orange peel, slight pitted fruit, and licorice notes up front then goes into oak and caramel finish leading to pepper with a long finish. The tart orange peel going into the caramel is different, but works well together.

Noses: wood notes like old cedar, leather, some cooked agave in the background, some fruity sweetness, and fresh dried tabaco Flavor: some sweet cooked agave, fresh peach, orange peel, caramel, and barrel notes. Nice mouth feel Finish: short and peppery (black pepper) and slight bitterness

Leather, tobacco and caramel aromas, decent mouthfeel and cooked agave flavor. Enjoyable, especially for XA fans. A bit pricey ($75).

Fruit upfront which fades into a hint of licorice and more savory notes of herbs and tobacco.