Tequila Semental Takes the Agave by the Horns

Founded by Efrain Lopez Gurza in 2007, Tequila Semental is an ultra premium line of triple distilled, 100% blue agave tequilas. According to its press materials, Tequila Semental derives its name from a special caste of “the bravest and most powerful bulls,” known as Sementals, that protected agave fields in ancient times. Gurza’s youthful experience with a Semental stayed with him and became the embodiment of his tequila brand.

When the booze fairy recently delivered not one, but all three expressions in the Tequila Semental range for review, I knew I had to call for backup. Enter Rivera mixologist Julian Cox, who graciously set aside some down time before dinner service and joined me in exploring the Tequila Semental line: Silver, Reposado, and Añejo.

Before getting into the tasting notes, I should mention the handsomely designed French bottles. They’re surprisingly heavy, probably because they’re double glass. Each bottle is individually numbered, with barrel and bottling dates, and topped with a sealed cork bar tap. The most eye-catching detail is the clever use of the Semental image, as seen at the top of this post. Backlighting frames the illustration (printed in reverse) through the front of the bottle, creating a nice effect for display.

Tequila Semental

• 100% blue agave
• Triple distilled
• 40% ABV
• www.tequilasemental.com

Tequila Semental is currently available in Southern California, Nevada, and Arizona.

Tequila Semental Silver

• Bottle: 03706
• Bottled: 3-30-07
• Suggested retail: $39.00

TASTING NOTES

• Color – Clear.
• Nose – Initial hints of agave with white pepper notes.
• Taste – Hints of lemon and spearmint.
• Finish – Short, crisp, and slightly sweet.

With its subtle flavor profile and short, smooth finish this plata is an ideal cocktail mixer. Julian thought the Silver would play well with the fresh, seasonal ingredients he favors in his cocktails.

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Tequila Semental Reposado

• Bottle: 22946
• Barrelled: 12-17-07
• Bottled: 6-6-08
• Suggested retail: $48.00

TASTING NOTES

• Color – Golden honey.
• Nose – Earthy and spicy, with vanilla and cracked pepper notes.
• Taste – Flavors of caramel, vanilla, dried fruit, and peppercorns.
• Finish – Long, spicy, and creamy.

Thanks to the introduction of new, medium-toasted American oak barrels in the aging process, the reposado demonstrates remarkable complexity and depth. The spicy finish lingers for quite some time, offering an excellent sipping experience. A superb reposado and easily our favorite of the three Semental expressions.

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Tequila Semental Añejo

• Bottle: 08669
• Barrelled: 9-21-06
• Bottled: 12-24-07
• Suggested retail: $59.00

TASTING NOTES

• Color – Amber.
• Nose – Initial grapefruit and mandarin orange notes.
• Taste – Caramel, honey, and cherry flavors with a hint of smoke.
• Finish – Lightly spiced, smooth and creamy.

New French and American Oak barrels provide the añejo rich, luxuriant flavors balanced between fruit and spice. Semental suggests enjoying this fine añejo in a brandy snifter, the better to appreciate the lovely nose and finish.