Despite its long ageing, this minimum 30-month blend is not overtly sweet or oaky; it has a drier style, which is full of spice and character from its highland terroir. Cooked agave is present with a fine mixture of dried fruits, almonds and roasted coffee. There is a subtle and masked fudginess reminiscent of dark cocoa that emerges from the depth in its long and slightly dry finish.

The Madrecuishe agave is part of the Karwinskii family, which also includes agave Cuishe, Cirial, and Tobasiche. Harvested between 14-16 years old, it grows mostly in the drier climates of Oaxaca, and typically takes a tall, cylindrical form. Due to the agave's dense core and low water content, mezcal made from Madrecuishe typically has high minerality and freshness with vegetal and floral notes. QQRQ's Madrecuishe is made by Maestro Mezcalero Natalio Vazquez at his palenque in El Palmar. Agaves are sourced from both wild and semi-wild plantations in Sitio El Palmar, San Luis Amatlán and Miahuatlán. Semi-wild means that wild seeds are sowed in community or private fields and when transplanted, left to grow, as in the wild. True wild agaves are increasingly scarce and Symonds feels replanting wild seeds represents a more responsible way to enjoy these rarer types of agave. To this end QQRQ re-sow ten times as many seeds as agaves used in their Mezcals. Tasting note: Clear. Oily and dense with a briney / fruity / waxy / dried herb opening sniff. Drifts lazily from the glass. Air contact loses no definition or intensity adding hints of menthol tobacco, white pepper, char grilled pineapple and dried fruits. A medium sweet, light to medium bodied mezcal with Islay-esque flavours of grilled citrus, tyre tube, wood smoke and a brisk, minerally finish. Elegant and remarkably balanced. The bouquet is first class. 47% Alc./Vol.

818 Tequila is a brand that prides itself on working closely with local, family-owned farms in Jalisco, Mexico to deliver the smoothest most natural and best-tasting tequila possible. With a commitment to using only the highest quality ingredients, 818 Tequila ensures that every bottle embodies the essence of craftsmanship and authenticity. The ethos of 818 Tequila goes beyond just creating exceptional spirits. The brand recognizes the importance of sustainability and transparency throughout its supply chain. Taking inspiration from the area code 818, which represents their home, they also acknowledge that the earth is home to all of us. With this in mind, 818 Tequila places great emphasis on sourcing their agaves responsibly and ensuring the production process is environmentally friendly. The journey of 818 Tequila begins with the skilled jimadores, local agave farmers from the Tequila region. These experts identify the optimal conditions for growing agaves in the Los Valles region, patiently waiting for at least 7 years until the agaves reach peak maturity. Once harvested, the agaves undergo a slow cooking process that lasts for over 30 hours. Large stone Tahonas, weighing 800 kilograms each, are then utilized to crush the cooked agaves. This age-old technique allows for the extraction and collection of the juice, preserving the authenticity and tradition of tequila production. The extracted juice, known as "mosto," then goes through a natural fermentation process. Unique wood and stainless steel tanks are utilized, and the fermentation is enriched by using leftover agave fibers from the tahonas. Native yeast is added to enhance the aromatic expression, resulting in a deeper and more nuanced flavor profile. The tequila is distilled in hand-built copper alembic pot stills of the highest quality. It undergoes a double distillation process, carefully monitoring the alcohol volume to achieve the desired smoothness that 818 Tequila is known for. To further enhance the character of the tequila, it is aged in superior oak barrels. The Reposado and Añejo expressions are aged in both American and French oak, allowing for a harmonious fusion of flavors. Expert blending techniques ensure that each bottle of 818 Tequila embodies the iconic taste that the brand is celebrated for - smooth, versatile and sippable. 818 Tequila Reposado 700ml is a testament to the brand's commitment to crafting exceptional tequila. Aged in French and American oak barrels for a minimum of 3 months, this reposado expression offers a unique and memorable tasting experience. On the palate, 818 Tequila Reposado delights with a ripe roasted agave flavour, accompanied by notes of caramel and vanilla. The combination of these flavors creates a harmonious and indulgent taste profile that showcases the craftsmanship of 818 Tequila. The straw colour with golden hues and medium body of this reposado tequila adds to its allure. Its appearance is inviting and sets the stage for the sensory journey to come. The aroma of 818 Tequila Reposado is a delightful blend of vanilla, meringue, honey and fruit accents. These aromatic notes create an enticing bouquet that prepares the senses for the flavors that await. The finish of this reposado tequila is smooth and satisfying. It leaves a lingering caramel finish with notes of sweet cooked agave and pecan pie. These flavors add depth and complexity, leaving a lasting impression on the palate.

Amarás Logia Cenizo keeps a balance between smoky and citric aromas on the nose, with bold and intense hints of roasted coffee beans. Handcrafted with a 14-year-old wild agave scientifically known as an A. durangensis. It is crafted using a particular artisanal recipe that starts with the use of local mesquite and huisache wood when cooked. It is milled with an axe. Its fermentation is 100% natural, in rectangular vats at ground level, maintaining a stable temperature. Please note that some bottling may have "Amores" rather than "Amares". This is due to a change in brand name. The producer, notes, history and liquid are identical.