El Mayor is a solid budget-friendly tequila brand produced by distillery DGL Destiladores – Distiladora Gozalez Lux (NOM 1603) run by the Gonzalez family in Arandas in the Jalisco Highlands (Los Altos). The distillery uses its own estate-grown Blue Weber agave grown at around 7,500 feet above sea level in sandy, mineral-laden soil that produces agave plants with high sugar levels (brix). El Mayor tequilas are 2x-distilled using a family yeast strain in stainless steel pot stills with copper coils and uses deep well water to cut to bottling proof of 80 (40% ABV). The añejo is aged at least 18 months in American White Oak ex-bourbon barrels.
This review is based on multiple separate notes-taking sessions over 3 months using Denver & Liely Mezcal & Riedel Tequila flute glasses. I finished the bottle (Lote #L061524M bottled on 24 June 2024).
COLOR: Amber
AROMA PROFILE: Sweet cooked agave & baking spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamom, light clove), white pepper, strong spiced fruits (red berries, dates, raisins), sweet citrus & citrus peel, caramel & light but creamy butterscotch, vanilla, grilled tropical fruits (pineapple & mango), sugared nuts (pralines, almonds), & sandalwood.
PALATE: Mirrors the nose with the addition of black pepper, minerality, salinity, anise, & a vegetal/herbal note – Earthy, herbal/vegetal/grassy mixed with dried fruit, & baking spices profile.
FINISH: 6-7 seconds
MOUTHFEEL/VISCOSITY: Medium viscosity
VALUE: Enjoyable añejo for under $50 in my market.
ALWAYS ON SHELF/BUY AGAIN? Yes
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