In recent years, the world of tequila has witnessed a significant evolution in terms of flavor profiles. Gone are the days of strictly adhering to traditional classifications like blanco, reposado, and añejo. Instead, producers have begun experimenting with barrel aging and secondary barrels that can subtly reshape the spirit’s taste.
According to David Rodriguez, master distiller for Patrón Tequila, ‘Barrel finishing influences far more than aroma and flavor. It can also subtly reshape texture and the overall structure of a tequila.’
Patrón produces a range of tequilas with unique barrel aging profiles, including the Cask Collection Sherry Cask Aged Añejo, which matures in ex-oloroso casks, and the Gran Patrón Burdeos, finished in ex-Bordeaux casks.
When selecting a secondary barrel for finishing, the character of the underlying tequila is key. ‘The primary guide for any finishing decision is the character of the underlying tequila,’ says Rodriguez. ‘Every tequila carries its own personality, shaped by factors such as agave ripeness, fermentation profile, and distillation techniques.’
Industry experts agree that barrel-finished tequilas can add complexity and depth to classic cocktails. For example, Emanuel Nunes, director of bars at The Riviera Maya EDITION, recommends using barrel-finished tequilas in Old Fashioned-style cocktails or minimally stirred drinks with agave syrup and aromatic bitters.
Some notable examples of cask-finished tequilas include Mijenta Tequila Añejo Gran Reserva, aged in bespoke casks constructed from French oak, American oak, cherry, and acacia. 1800 Añejo Tequila leverages the unique character of both American and French oak to create a profile that bridges tequila and brown-spirit drinkers.
Espolón Nicholas Reserve Bourbon Barrel Aged Añejo Tequila, with a rich baked agave character layered with caramel and vanilla from extended oak aging. Casa Dragones Añejo Barrel Blend combines two tequilas aged in French oak and American casks to create a well-spiced yet generous añejo.
Other notable mentions include Código 1530 Rosa Tequila, which is a blanco by definition but has floral and fruity notes inherited from a month spent in French oak that previously held Cabernet Sauvignon. Corazón Expresiones Old Rip Van Winkle Tequila Añejo, aged for 23 months in barrels previously used to hold some of the world’s most coveted bourbon.
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title
The Rise of Barrel Finishing
In recent years, the world of tequila has witnessed a significant evolution in terms of flavor profiles.
Gone are the days of strictly adhering to traditional classifications like blanco, reposado, and añejo.
Instead, producers have begun experimenting with barrel aging and secondary barrels that can subtly reshape the spirit’s taste.
title
The Art of Barrel Finishing
According to David Rodriguez, master distiller for Patrón Tequila, ‘Barrel finishing influences far more than aroma and flavor. It can also subtly reshape texture and the overall structure of a tequila.’
Patrón produces a range of tequilas with unique barrel aging profiles, including the Cask Collection Sherry Cask Aged Añejo, which matures in ex-oloroso casks, and the Gran Patrón Burdeos, finished in ex-Bordeaux casks.
When selecting a secondary barrel for finishing, the character of the underlying tequila is key. ‘The primary guide for any finishing decision is the character of the underlying tequila,’ says Rodriguez. ‘Every tequila carries its own personality, shaped by factors such as agave ripeness, fermentation profile, and distillation techniques.’
title
Industry Experts Weigh In
Industry experts agree that barrel-finished tequilas can add complexity and depth to classic cocktails.
For example, Emanuel Nunes, director of bars at The Riviera Maya EDITION, recommends using barrel-finished tequilas in Old Fashioned-style cocktails or minimally stirred drinks with agave syrup and aromatic bitters.
title
Notable Examples
Some notable examples of cask-finished tequilas include Mijenta Tequila Añejo Gran Reserva, aged in bespoke casks constructed from French oak, American oak, cherry, and acacia.
1800 Añejo Tequila leverages the unique character of both American and French oak to create a profile that bridges tequila and brown-spirit drinkers.
Espolón Nicholas Reserve Bourbon Barrel Aged Añejo Tequila, with a rich baked agave character layered with caramel and vanilla from extended oak aging.
Casa Dragones Añejo Barrel Blend combines two tequilas aged in French oak and American casks to create a well-spiced yet generous añejo.
title
Conclusion
The world of tequila continues to evolve, with producers pushing the boundaries of flavor profiles.
From blanco to añejo, barrel finishing is redefining the spirit’s taste.
As we explore this exciting new frontier, it’s essential to consult with a knowledgeable bartender or spirits expert when selecting a cask-finished tequila.
