La Serpiente Tequila Extra Añejo

La Serpiente Emplumada Extra Anejo is the top of this Jalisco range built on 100% Blue Weber agave, named for the feathered serpent of Aztec myth and dressed in a golden label. Extra anejo is a demanding class where spirits sit at least three years in oak, and this one has aged beyond that mark to a deep amber colour, made as a sipping tequila where smoothness, sweetness and depth are the goal rather than mixing.

Time in barrel does most of the talking here. The aroma carries a pleasant smoke note wrapped in honey, full bodied agave, vanilla and a touch of coconut and almond, while the palate shows a fine sweetness that stays restrained rather than turning sugary. The long oak contact pulls the agave back toward the mid palate and rounds the texture, which is why it is best given room in a brandy glass where the barrel notes can open.