Casa Noble Crystal 100% Blue Agave Tequila (750ml)

Agree or disagree as to its number one status, this is one all-round superb package.

There are those who believe Casa Noble Crystal is unrivalled in its category, an opinion that certainly resonates with the distillery's production philosophy: Recognising that one of the most important factors in a great tequila is the agave plant, Casa Noble are not only distillers but growers too. Their agaves are certified organic, farmed and harvested at 10-14 years of age from their own estate after meeting strict requirements for water and sugar content. The agaves are then slow-cooked (steam roasted) for thirty six hours in stone ovens followed by a 3-5 day natural fermentation and a triple distillation (most other tequila is distilled twice). Three stainless steel pot stills with internal copper plates are employed. Unlike most other brands, lightly toasted French oak barrels are given preference over x Bourbon. The commitment to quality extends from the inside out, with the tequilas finished in glass decanters (reportedly hand blown), adorned with an embossed metal label and heavy ball-stopper.

Tasting note: Clear. Pure, lifted and engaging aromas of brine, dill pickle, roast capsicum and white pepper developing with crushed chilli, grilled pineapple and sappy / resiny notes in later passes. Salty entry follows through with flavours of chilli, beeswax, white pepper and sappy agave with a creamy, warming finish and excellent length. Effortlessly combines the body and elegance of great vodka with the vibrancy and exoticism associated with blanco tequila. 40% Alc./Vol.

Other reviews...Clear with a gun metal cast. Roasted red pepper, mature cheese, and marinating spice aromas with a fair amount of vapor and a touch of vanilla. A smooth, round entry leads to an off-dry medium-to full-bodied palate with sweet tropical fruit, black pepper, and salty, grilled pepper flavors. Finishes with a long fade of spicy heat and sweet agave fruit. Great texture and very true agave flavours. 40% Alc./Vol.
International Review of Spirits Award: Gold Medal
92 points (Exceptional)
- www.tastings.com

...A triple-distilled lowlands spirit with a crisp, agave and lemon peel scent and clean, citrusy flavor with a mild, custardy finish and a soft feel.
89 points - www.wineenthusiast.com

The New York Times Best Value for Taste in Blanco Tequilas 2013

Double Gold Medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition.