Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/288975
april 2014 / the tasting panel / 1 15 Best KARMA Reposado KARMA Reposado 100% Agave Tequila has been eight years in the making. The first three years alone were spent selecting the best recipe, the most capable distiller, the choicest agaves and purest water. A few minutes alone with the tequila will show that the time and effort was well invested. KARMA is made by the family owned and operated Tequila El Viejito (NOM 1107) located in Atotonilco El Alto, Jalisco using sugar-rich, Highland agaves and pure well water. Much of the character of the finished tequila can be attributed to the singular nature of its blend. KARMA is a marriage of tequilas that are double- or triple- distilled in a traditional half copper/half stainless steel pot still. KARMA Tequila uses only a small percentage of triple-distilled spirits, which lightens and refines the tequila, whereas most of its flavor is derived from the double distilled spirits. According to brand co-founder and President Gary Eisenberger, another important quality feature of KARMA Tequila is that it is all-natural. "Our tequila is certified kosher, which means KARMA doesn't contain glycerin and artificial coloring and uses none of the chemical accelerators that other distilleries may use to speed up the fermation process. KARMA is pure and unadulterated. Basically, there's no makeup on this model . . . it's naturally beautiful." The comparison is apt. KARMA Reposado is matured in charred American oak a few days shy of a year. The extended aging imbues the tequila with a shimmery amber/golden hue, a satiny textured body and a wafting bouquet of vanilla, fresh fruit and toffee with light oaky notes. It fills the mouth with fruity, spicy flavor before tapering off to a long, dry finish. Even KARMA's brand name seems well deserved. Eisenberger and business partner Devin Semler have dedicated their company to supporting organizations that contribute to the educational and wellness of the children. "Devin and I have been board members on a few of these types of organizations, some for over 20 years, and it's a marvelous way to give back," says Eisenberger. "Together we started the KARMA Cares Foundation. All of the monies it raises go directly to the cause. That's not just an investment of money or product, but of our time as well. It's a commitment." As the brand's tag line says, "When KARMA flows . . . good things follow!" WC SPIRITS, LLC TP0414_102-132.indd 115 3/21/14 2:53 PM