Maestro Dobel Diamond Tequila
Small-batch, aged tequila just turned a new corner, a crystal clear corner.
The recently released Maestro Dobel Diamond Tequila may appear to be a blanco but in reality it is nothing of the sort. What makes this tequila stand out is its rich blend of reposado, añejo and extra añejo tequilas masked behind the veil of a crystal clear spirit.
The purpose behind the tequila’s concept is to create a unique, clear tequila that is free of congeners (“hangover makers”) but has the seductive taste of oak. The result is impressive and surprising if you don’t know the story before your first sip. This concept is also useful for marketing and the reason “Diamond” is in the name. The tagline reads, “The First-Ever Diamond Tequila” and they use that to explain the tequila’s 4 C’s: clarity, complexity, crispness and craftsmanship. The complexity and crispness are there for obvious reasons (blending and aged agave respectively) and the craftsmanship clearly defines the genius and care behind the spirit but if you want to know the secret behind the clarity, forget it, the filtration process is “proprietary” and whatever it is it works.
The tequila is rich and complex. There are notable flavors of butterscotch, vanilla and oak and just enough agave to remind you that you are drinking tequila. More of that vegetal aspect of tequila is noticeable in the aroma than in the taste but it is so smooth and rich that you almost forget you’re drinking alcohol and the lack of agave isn’t important.
Maestro Dobel is also notable for its bottle. Fashioned much like those that hold premium vodkas, it is tall and lean with beautiful, elegant decoration. The glass has raised outlines of agave plants round the bottom with a silver and black, metal base which is mirrored in the secure and heavy synthetic cork closure. The label details the life of the tequila in the bottle and includes the bottle number, date bottled, the signatures of those who made and blended it and the ranch where the agave was grown.
This tequila is definitely an experience that I recommend you not miss. The price of a bottle is $75 and it is new and produced in small batches so it is a little difficult to find, but when you do you will not be disappointed.
My GOD I tasted this last night and am still all aflutter this morning. I was treated to a taste by a local bar owner who keeps it high on the top shelf hidden in the shadows. It’s not on the menu at all since there is so little of it to be had. I have no idea what I did to deserve such a treat. If you are lucky enough to find it, DRINK it. Slowwwly. With hand clapping.