Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/188061
of tequila—including several on tap—REVOLUCION stands out. "Our staff is highly trained on the spirit and we enjoy spending time educating our guests," says Nicolosi. "We recently featured REVOLUCION for an entire month, and they put together special flight boards for the occasion. They make for a cool presentation and help us display the quality." REVOLUCION Silver, bottled at 80 proof, is 100 percent organic, which Nicolosi says, is a big selling point with his customers. Plus, the crisp nose of herbs, citrus, and ripe agave elevate Margaritas and Palomas beyond their commonplace status. He is also impressed with REVOLUCION Silver 100 Proof, a tequila niche that is definitely growing. "REVOLUCION Silver 100 Proof is smooth with an extra punch," he says. "Obviously it's great in a cocktail, but as far as a shot, it's probably one of our bestsellers." Double-distilled and aged in white oak for 10 months, REVOLUCION Reposado expresses vanilla, caramel, herbs, and honey. With tasty oak influence, it lingers to a lengthy and velvety finish. REVOLUCION Añejo goes through the same double distillation before resting in white oak for 18 months. The extra time builds complexity, smoothness, and richness. "There are a lot of qualities similar to bourbon in the Añejo, like sweetness and caramel, but with deep agave flavors up front. This is definitely one of our go-to spirits when the staff is trying to get someone to try something new," says Nicolosi. The brand's crown jewel is its REVOLUCION Extra Añejo, another tequila category that is growing in popularity. Aged more than three years in French oak, this medium-bodied spirit features rich chocolate and prominent agave flavors with an enticing spicy finish. Nicolosi says that the best tequilas, like REVOLUCION, are an integral component of Houston's craft cocktail scene, but trying to do too much takes away from the beauty of the spirit. "Simpler is better for me," he explains. "The florals and spices aren't meant to be overpowered. And with REVOLUCION, you definitely don't want to cover anything up." GM Daniel Nicolosi (left) serves Houstonite Chris Javier at TQLA's bright red bar. A flight of REVOLUCION tequilas. october 2013 / the tasting panel / 121 TP1013_104-152.indd 121 9/23/13 10:35 PM