Severo Tequila Añejo Cristalino: The Uncompromising Purity of Aged Perfection
Discover the refined elegance and exceptional craftsmanship of Severo Tequila Añejo Cristalino. This remarkable spirit is a testament to the pursuit of perfection, seamlessly blending the rich, complex flavors of a meticulously aged Añejo with the stunning, pristine clarity of a Blanco. Severo Tequila, crafted by Master Distiller Gerardo Mendoza at NOM 1477 (Destiladora del Valle de Tequila), is renowned for its commitment to traditional methods and uncompromising quality.
Severo Tequila Añejo Cristalino begins its journey with 100% Blue Weber Agave, harvested at peak maturity from the high altitudes of Jalisco. The agave piñas are slow-cooked in traditional stone ovens (hornos) for 72 hours, a process that extracts the deepest, most authentic agave flavors. Following fermentation with proprietary yeast and a meticulous double distillation in stainless steel pot stills, the tequila is then aged for a minimum of 14 months in American white oak barrels. This extended maturation period imbues the Añejo with a beautiful golden hue and a complex array of vanilla, caramel, chocolate, and toasted wood notes. To achieve its dazzling clarity, the aged Añejo then undergoes a precise charcoal filtration process. This innovative step delicately removes the color imparted by the oak while diligently preserving the rich, nuanced flavors and aromas developed during its long rest. Bottled at a classic 40% ABV (80 Proof), Severo Tequila Añejo Cristalino is an additive-free spirit, inviting connoisseurs to experience true agave expression in its purest and most refined form.
Key Characteristics:
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Cristalino Añejo: An Añejo tequila, aged for a minimum of 14 months, then charcoal filtered to achieve crystal clarity while retaining its complex aged profile.
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Additive-Free: Certified as additive-free, ensuring a pure and authentic tequila experience.
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100% Blue Weber Agave: Sourced from high-quality agave from Jalisco, reflecting its superior origin.
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Traditional Oven Cooking: Agave slow-cooked in stone ovens for deep, authentic flavor.
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Aged 14+ Months: Matured in American white oak barrels, developing rich vanilla, caramel, and oak notes.
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Charcoal Filtration: The precise process that removes color and refines the spirit while preserving its aged characteristics.
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Master Distiller Gerardo Mendoza (NOM 1477): Crafted by an acclaimed distiller known for quality.
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Balanced & Versatile (40% ABV / 80 Proof): Excellent for sipping neat, on the rocks, or as a sophisticated base for clear cocktails.
Tasting Notes:
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Appearance: Pristine, crystal clear, with remarkable brilliance.
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Nose: Elegant and complex, opening with aromas of sweet cooked agave, creamy vanilla, and rich caramel. Subtle notes of toasted oak, a delicate fruitiness (pear, apple), and a hint of warm baking spice (cinnamon, nutmeg) also emerge.
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Palate: Exceptionally smooth and velvety, coating the palate with a luxurious sweetness. Flavors of decadent vanilla, butterscotch, and milk chocolate mingle seamlessly with refined oak notes. A delicate spice, possibly white pepper or cinnamon, might emerge, adding complexity, beautifully balanced by the inherent agave sweetness.
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Finish: Long, clean, and remarkably smooth, with a lingering warmth. Impressions of sweet cooked agave, soft vanilla, and a refined, subtle oak finish provide a truly satisfying conclusion.
Awards & Recognition:
Severo Tequila Añejo Cristalino has garnered significant acclaim, quickly establishing itself as a top-tier Cristalino:
- Platinum Medal & Best in Class, SIP Awards 2023.
- Double Gold Medal, San Francisco World Spirits Competition (SFWSC) 2022.
- Gold Medal, Tequila & Mezcal Masters 2022.
- Consistently praised by critics and enthusiasts for its uncompromising purity, exceptional smoothness, and balanced complexity, often cited as a benchmark for the Cristalino category.
Overall Impression:
Severo Tequila Añejo Cristalino is a testament to the art of premium tequila making, offering a profound sensory experience. By combining traditional cooking, extended aging, and meticulous filtration, Severo has created a Cristalino that is not only visually stunning but also deeply flavorful and incredibly smooth. It's the perfect choice for discerning palates seeking the rich nuances of an aged tequila with the crisp, clean presentation of a Blanco. Enjoy it neat or on the rocks to truly appreciate its exceptional character and the master craftsmanship behind every drop.