Espolon Cristalino Tequila Review

Last Updated on: 13th May 2024, 09:42 pm

Uncover all the details about Espolon Cristalino in this comprehensive review that addresses all your inquiries!

Reviewed by: J Highland

Espolon Cristalino: Smooth, But Not Show-Stopping

Rating: ⭐⭐

Espolon Cristalino falls into the category of Cristalino tequilas, known for their smoothness thanks to filtration, according to tequila authority Neil Coleman. While it delivers on that promise, the flavor profile might leave you underwhelmed.

Strengths:

• Unmatched Smoothness: If a smooth and easy-drinking tequila is your top priority, Espolon Cristalino excels in this area. The filtration process removes harsher flavors, making for a very pleasant texture.

Weaknesses:

• Simple Flavor Profile: The initial hints of caramel and vanilla fade quickly, leaving a lingering rubbing alcohol note. Overall, the taste lacks complexity and depth.
• Potential Added Flavors: The strong vanilla presence might be indicative of added flavors, which some tequila purists might find inauthentic.
• Flat at the Price: Considering the price point, other tequilas offer a more interesting flavor experience.

Verdict:

Espolon Cristalino caters to those who prioritize a smooth tequila experience. However, for the price, there are tequilas that offer both smoothness and a more complex flavor profile. If you're looking for a more interesting sipping experience or value a taste that reflects the agave plant, you might want to explore other options. Espolon Cristalino might be a better choice for mixed drinks where smoothness is important.

In short:

• Smooth, as expected from a Cristalino tequila.
• Flavor profile lacks complexity, with potential added notes.
• Consider exploring other options for a more exciting taste.

Related: Best Cristalinos

What's unique about Espolon Cristalino?

Espolon Cristalino starts by combining the brand's Añejo and Extra Añejo Tequilas.

Later, the blend is filtered through charcoal to remove its color, along with some hard edges.

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Floral, banana, mango, alcohol
• Palate: Caramel, vanilla, alcohol, minerals
• Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
• How to drink: Neat
• Similar to: Cazadores Cristalino
• Price: $60-$70

The nose presents a rich floral aroma, accompanied by fruity hints of mango and banana, alongside a subtle initial alcohol presence that dissipates with time.

On the palate, Espolon Cristalino offers a satisfactory body, providing an acceptable mouthfeel.

The taste reveals upfront notes of caramel and vanilla, followed by a generic alcohol flavor that lacks warmth and allure.

Late mineral notes emerge.

The finish is brief, with minimal warmth, leaving behind a touch of vanilla and a hint of black pepper.

How did I review Espolon Cristalino?

I run a pub and a liquor store, granting me extensive access to various spirits, in addition, I moonlight as an agave spirits distiller.

My evaluations include my insights and feedback from customers and patrons and Tequila expert opinions from Neil Coleman who has been for decades in the liquor business.

I also corroborate my views with online research to ensure accuracy.

Our ratings are determined primarily by four key factors: aroma, taste, finish, and value for money. While we do consider packaging, it is of lesser importance to us, as we prioritize the quality of the liquid inside over the aesthetics of the bottle.

⭐ - Poor, ⭐⭐ - Average, ⭐⭐⭐ - Good, ⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Very Good, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Excellent.

Frequently Asked Questions

Alternatives

• Maestro Dobel Diamante: A top choice for budget-friendly Tequila, offering a superior experience with signature agave flavors.

Does Espolon Cristalino Use Additives?

• Potential Additives: Suspected use of vanilla infusion to mask an alcohol taste, indicating a possibility of manipulation. However, this is not confirmed.

How to Drink

• Sipping Over Ice: Recommended to sip over large ice cubes to avoid dilution and maintain flavor.

Is it Good for Cocktails?

• Not Recommended for Cocktails: Better to use Espolon Blanco for cocktails due to its favorable flavor profile.

Bottle Price

• Approximate Prices in USD:
• TotalWine.com: $62
• Drizly.com: $70
• Value Assessment: Not the best in terms of price-to-quality ratio.

Availability

• Online Shopping Options: Available on websites like totalwine.com, drizly.com, and oldtowntequila.com for convenient shipping.

Alcohol Content

• Strength: 80 proof (40% ABV).

Does it Expire?

• Shelf Life: Can last indefinitely if stored correctly.
• Post-Opening: Best consumed once it's down to 25% to maintain flavor.

Does it Have Sugar?

• Low Sugar Content: Ideal for calorie-conscious individuals, but avoid sugary mixers.

Espolon Cristalino: Specs

• Type: Cristalino
• Proof: 80
• 100% Agave: Yes
• ABV: 40%
• Double-Distilled: Yes
• Aging Length: Undetermined
• Taste Profile: Sweet, not warm, not smoky
• Suitability: Good for beginners, but not for cocktails
• Calories per Shot: 98
• Gluten-Free: Yes