Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/19027
TEQUILA EL MAYOR M aster Distiller Rodolfo González’s family has been producing tequila for 120 years. Having partnered with Luxco for the last 30 years, El Mayor combines historic romance and technology to bring this high-end, yet affordable spirit—for which each Weber blue agave from the rocky high plains of Jalisco is individually selected—to compete in the world market. RIAZUL F amily-owned Riazul tequila is packaged in a modern skyscraper bottle and is aged in cognac and Burgundy oak barrels for a unique style. Our Panel Votes: “Riazul Silver is bready and creamy, with dried pineapple and a dry, dusty finish. (MM) “Riazul Silver offers up mushroom and deep earthy essence up front, with pleasant citrus, pepper and orange peel; lightly perfumed.” (NR) “Riazul Añejo is reminiscent of Christmas: carrot cake, gingerbread and cinnamon spice.” (KV) Regency Wines Andrew Pfeffer, West Coast Division Manager of Luxco Spirited Brands, brought the Panel El Mayor, which translates as “The Greatest.” Our Panel Votes: “El Mayor Reposado is mild, approachable and enjoyable with wild flowers and minerality. The palate is peppered and perfumed.” (NR) “El Mayor Blanco has a delicate tangerine note with sweet agave richness and a long finish that yields an earthy minerality. El Mayor Añejo is full, rich and opulent, boasting a whisky character with fleshy texture and ultra smooth.” (KV) “El Mayor Extra Añejo is deep and expressive, with tobacco, pepper and a hint of Irish coffee.” (MM) “I picked up caramel, butterscotch and bourbon from the El Mayor Extra Añejo: bold, rich and full-flavored.” (KB) Luxco Spirited Brands november 2010 / the tasting panel / 87