Never a brand to rest on its laurels, Patrón has launched two limited-release smoky tequilas, Ahumado Silver and Ahumado Reposado. It's another bold play from one of the industry's top producers that recently set its eyes on breaking into the luxury market with El Cielo.
Patrón's move into the smoky realm stems from a desire to convert Scotch and mezcal enthusiasts. Good tequilas often deliver smooth, bold flavors. Añejos (and some reposados) lean toward bourbon-partially thanks to the ex-American bourbon barrels used to age many varieties-while blancos are frequently applauded for their crisp, clean qualities. It's a flavor profile that appeals to many. Last year, tequila overtook American whiskey to become the second most valuable spirit category in the U.S. However, Scotch and mezcal lovers more intrigued by smoke remain unmoved.
That's where Ahumado comes in. The two new tequilas look to appeal to "Scotch and mezcal lovers alike, as well as those looking to elevate classic cocktails like the margarita and old fashioned with a smokier touch," says David Rodriguez, Patrón master distiller.
Related: Best Sipping Tequilas of the Year (So Far)
Like all Patrón tequilas, Ahumado begins with 100 percent Weber blue agave, but this time around, it's "handcrafted through a traditional process typically used in making mezcal but not usually in tequila," explains Rodriguez. "Unlike the baking [or steaming] technique, which utilizes pressurized steam from above-ground ovens to cook the agave, these agave piñas are roasted with mesquite charcoal for seven days in small underground stone pits at Hacienda Patrón in Jalisco, Mexico. The agaves are then crushed through a 100 percent tahona wheel distillation process, which creates a tequila with natural sweetness and flavors of the earth."
Ahumado Silver (41 percent ABV) delivers lingering smoke and a smooth taste with a natural sweetness that's balanced by notes of spices, black pepper, and cooked agave. It's a tequila that'll appeal to many mezcal fans, especially when used in smokier versions of classic cocktails like a margarita or a Negroni.
Ahumado Reposado (40 percent ABV) may appeal more to Scotch enthusiasts. It features smooth, sweet, smoky, and woody flavors with notes of black pepper and hints of vanilla and caramel. Patrón recommends serving the tequila neat, on the rocks, or in a cocktail like an old fashioned.
[$70, Silver, $80, Reposado; patron.com]