Hornitos Cristalino Tequila Añejo: The Clarity of Innovation, The Depth of Tradition
Experience the best of both worlds with Hornitos Cristalino Tequila Añejo, an extraordinary spirit that masterfully combines the rich complexity of an aged Añejo with the crisp, bright appearance of a Blanco. This innovative expression from Hornitos Tequila redefines what a premium tequila can be, offering a surprisingly smooth and versatile experience that honors tradition while embracing modernity.
Hornitos Cristalino begins its journey as 100% pure Blue Weber Agave, meticulously grown in Mexico. The agave is then triple-distilled to ensure exceptional smoothness and purity. This spirit is then aged for at least one year in American white oak barrels, allowing it to develop the characteristic vanilla, butterscotch, and toasted wood notes typical of a premium Añejo tequila. After this significant maturation period, Hornitos Cristalino undergoes a unique carbon filtration process. This revolutionary technique carefully removes the color imparted by the oak barrels, resulting in a crystal-clear tequila, while diligently preserving the rich, nuanced flavors and aromas developed during aging. Bottled at 40% ABV (80 Proof), Hornitos Cristalino offers a unique sensory paradox – the visual purity of a Blanco with the sophisticated palate of an Añejo, making it perfect for sipping neat, on the rocks, or as an elevated base for premium cocktails.
Key Characteristics:
- Cristalino Añejo: An Añejo tequila that has been filtered to remove color, offering the clarity of a Blanco with the complexity of an aged spirit.
- Aged 1+ Year: Matured for over a year in American white oak barrels, developing rich, aged notes.
- Triple-Distilled: Ensures an extra-smooth and refined tequila.
- 100% Blue Agave: Crafted from pure Blue Weber Agave.
- Unique Carbon Filtration: Preserves the Añejo flavor profile while achieving crystal clarity.
- Versatile (40% ABV / 80 Proof): Excellent for sipping or in sophisticated cocktails.
- Balanced & Approachable: Offers a harmonious blend of sweetness, oak, and agave, appealing to a wide range of palates.
Tasting Notes:
- Appearance: Crystal clear, resembling a Blanco, despite its aging.
- Nose: Sweet and inviting, with prominent notes of honey and delicate floral undertones. Hints of vanilla and toasted wood are also present, reflecting its time in oak.
- Palate: Smooth and velvety, with a delightful richness. Flavors of vanilla and butterscotch are wrapped in notes of toasted wood and a subtle agave sweetness. Some may detect mild spice or a hint of fruit.
- Finish: Smooth and subtly warm, with a pleasant sweetness and velvety tannins that linger on the palate.
Awards & Recognition:
Hornitos Cristalino Tequila Añejo has been recognized for its innovative approach and quality:
- Often receives positive ratings from spirits reviewers for its smoothness and unique flavor profile that bridges aged and unaged tequilas.
- Praised for its approachability and versatility, making it a popular choice for both sipping and mixing in elevated cocktails.
- Hornitos as a brand has a legacy of quality and authenticity, earning numerous awards for its tequila range.
Overall Impression:
Hornitos Cristalino Tequila Añejo is a truly intriguing and rewarding tequila experience. By expertly filtering an Añejo to crystal clarity, Hornitos offers a spirit that challenges perceptions, delivering the depth and character of aged tequila in a surprisingly clean and bright form. Whether you're a seasoned tequila connoisseur looking for something new, or simply seeking a remarkably smooth and flavorful spirit, Hornitos Cristalino offers an elegant and innovative choice for any occasion.
