Corralejo Tequila Reposado

Okay, here are the rules of shopping for alcohol as a foreign tourist:

1. If the bottle looks too fancy, the quality inside will not live up.
2. If every tourist shop has a massive display right up front, avoid it.
3. If those same shops display a giant inflatable bottle in their entrance, that product will be overpriced and probably crap... so avoid it.

There are exceptions to every rule (or three rules).

Corralejo's reposado is very hyped and marketed. It is also available in the US (at least in the southern states) which tends to lessen a foreign product's mystique (I'm looking at you, Stella Artios). However, despite every red flag, Corralejo Reposado is a great choice if you are looking for a quality tequila in the $20 US price range. It is smooth from start to finish, easy on the nose and has a full flavour that lingers without ever being harsh. There is an alcohol aftertaste but it is a pleasant one, much like a good Islay scotch or Kentucky bourbon would have. It is also a very versatile tequila as it works well as a mixer (in a margarita or simply mixed with fresh juices) as well as it does neat... which is rare. Corralejo Reposado is one of the few tequilas that I will sip as its own back, while drinking a mango margarita made with it as well. It has a natural sweetness to its finish that allows it to stand on its own, even after drinking a sweetened cocktail. My advise is to ignore those that might question it as "too commercial to be authentic" and pick up a bottle with confidence. Finally, yes the bottle itself is the best looking in the business... purchase the 700 ml or larger for full grand effect on your bar as the bottles get taller by volume.

Tasted at home out of a snifter on 4/14/10.

Very balanced aroma of butter and grass. Not overly sweet.
First taste gives a bit of alcohol, but is offset by a nice medium body. Slightly spicy, but definitely acceptable for a nicely rested reposado.
Finish is surprisingly short and brings with it a hint of the oak.
Overall a very nice reposado especially for the price. And the distinctive bottle is an eye-catcher.

As a casual Tequila drinker, not a serious connoisseur I bought Corralejo Reposado on recommendation from the proprietor of a liquor store as his personal favorite Reposado.

Excellent aroma, very strong (in a pleasant way!) agave flavor. When I think of Tequila, this is the flavor I like to imagine. Pleasant mouth feel and body, easy to enjoy but impossible to ignore the alcohol burn - strong but not mean.

Medium-long richly spiced finish, very enjoyable. I dig this Tequila.

I don't dislike the presentation, but also honestly would not have bought it based on looks alone - can't put my finger on why. It's not too gimmicky and not too bland but doesn't speak to me. Very glad the shopkeeper recommended it however!

Tasted in a caballito on January 23, 2008 showing long and lasting legs down the glass.

Corralejo Reposado

Color: light yellow color
Aroma: lime and honey
Taste: agave, honey, peppercorn, light wood with an oily body, long smooth finish with a mellow burn

For the price I rate this Corralejo Reposado as a lighter alternative to the Casa Noble Reposado