Tequila del Marinero: An Ultra-Smooth Blanco Tequila Made Traditionally in Mexico

Introducing Tequila del Marinero

Tequila has been a beloved spirit in Mexico for centuries, with its origins tracing back to the 16th century. One tequila that has been making waves recently is Tequila del Marinero, a crystal-clear blanco tequila made with an ultra-smooth finish. Keep reading to learn all about this unique tequila brand and what makes it stand out.

The History Behind Tequila del Marinero

Tequila del Marinero was founded in 2002 by Master Distiller Carlos Santana along with his two sons who grew up working in their family’s distillery. Located in the highlands of Jalisco, Mexico, Carlos wanted to create a tequila that embodied the true essence of the agave plant while also appealing to the evolving tastes of tequila drinkers.

The name “Tequila del Marinero” means “Tequila of the Sailor” in Spanish. This name pays homage to the sailors who first began exporting tequila out of Mexico back in the 1800s. The label’s nautical themes and signature bottle shaped like a sailor’s barrel are a tribute to these seafaring spirits of days past.

What Makes Tequila del Marinero Unique

Tequila del Marinero has some unique production methods that set it apart from other tequila brands on the market today. Here are some key things that make this tequila special:

• It is distilled using both a copper pot still and column still to achieve complexity.
• The agave used is sustainably sourced from highland regions of Jalisco.
• It is fermented using a proprietary yeast developed by the master distiller.
• The tequila ages for 2 months in ex-bourbon barrels before bottling.
• It is bottled without any additional colors or flavors added.

These traditional yet innovative techniques result in a tequila with distinct floral and herbal notes complemented by subtle hints of vanilla, butterscotch, and pepper. The agave flavor really shines through in a smooth, rounded profile.

Tasting Notes

So what can you expect when sipping Tequila del Marinero? Here are some of the notable tasting notes:

• Color: Crystal clear with silver-white hints
• Aroma: Floral, herbal agave, black pepper, fresh lime, vanilla
• Flavor: Green agave, Meyer lemon, ginger, white pepper, briny hint
• Finish: Smooth, slightly dry yet fruity finish with a subtle burn

The aromas are really vibrant with agave at the forefront, while the flavors strike an impeccable balance between citrus, spice, and vegetal notes. Sipped neat, it has a gentle yet satisfying finish.

How To Drink Tequila del Marinero

This versatile tequila works excellently in cocktails but can also be happily sipped on its own. Here are some serving suggestions:

• Sip it neat or on the rocks as a simple yet flavorful tequila
• Use it in tequila cocktails like the Paloma, Margarita, or Tequila Sunrise
• Create a unique gin and tonic by substituting Tequila del Marinero for the gin
• Add it to fresh juices like pineapple, lime, or grapefruit for a delicious twist
• Infuse it into fruit slices to make an agave-kissed sangria

With its mixability and complex flavor, Tequila del Marinero gives you plenty of options for creative cocktails. It brings that authentic taste of agave even when blended with other ingredients.

Where to Buy Tequila del Marinero

While still a newer, independent brand, Tequila del Marinero is gaining recognition worldwide. Here are some places you can find this tequila:

• Premium liquor stores - Ask at your local liquor store if they carry it
• Online spirits retailers - Many e-commerce sites like ReserveBar or Drizly deliver it
• Mexico - Easier to find in liquor stores across Mexico
• On-site distillery - Purchase it at the distillery in Jalisco, Mexico

As Tequila del Marinero continues expanding globally, make sure to look out for it at your favorite spirits retailer. The striking bottle with a barrel shape and sailor logo makes it easy to spot on shelves.

Reasons to Try Tequila del Marinero

If you’re a tequila lover, here are some key reasons you should give Tequila del Marinero a taste:

• It exemplifies high quality blanco tequila before any aging
• The floral, herbal agave flavors really sing in this expression
• It works beautifully in cocktails, especially margaritas and palomas
• The smooth finish makes it very easy to sip on its own
• It’s an excellent introductory tequila for someone new to the category
• The classic bottle and branding give it gift-worthy appeal

With its remarkable smoothness, balance of flavors, and versatility, Tequila del Marinero is a bottle to have on your bar cart. It allows the true natural tastes of the agave to take center stage while still carrying complexity and character. If you want to experience a uniquely authentic tequila made traditionally with care, give Tequila del Marinero a try.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Tequila del Marinero:

What type of tequila is Tequila del Marinero?

Tequila del Marinero is classified as a blanco or silver tequila. This means it is unaged and bottled immediately after the distillation process.

What does blanco or silver tequila taste like?

Blanco tequila has a bright, floral, and herbal taste that showcases the natural flavors of the agave plant. It tends to taste grassy, fruity, and peppery.

Where in Mexico is Tequila del Marinero produced?

Tequila del Marinero is produced at a family-owned distillery located in the Los Altos (Highlands) region of Jalisco, Mexico.

What is special about Los Altos tequila?

The higher elevations and mineral-rich red clay soil of the Los Altos region impart distinct terroir into the agave grown there. Tequilas from this region are often more herbaceous and earthy.

What is Tequila del Marinero's bottling proof?

Tequila del Marinero has a bottling proof of 80, which equates to 40% alcohol by volume (ABV).

How long does Tequila del Marinero age for?

Tequila del Marinero ages for approximately 2 months in ex-bourbon barrels before bottling. As a blanco, no extended aging is done.

What cocktails work well with Tequila del Marinero?

The herbal citrus flavors make Tequila del Marinero excellent in cocktails like the margarita, paloma, tequila sunrise, or tequila mule.

FAQs

What foods pair well with Tequila del Marinero?

The herbal and citrus notes of Tequila del Marinero pair nicely with spicy Mexican dishes, seafood, lime-accented ceviches, and fresh salsas and guacamoles. Its crispness contrasts rich meats like carne asada tacos or chicken mole.

Does Tequila del Marinero use diffusers in production?

No, Tequila del Marinero is produced using traditional techniques like stone ovens and copper pot stills. No diffusers or additives are used, giving it natural agave flavor.

What is the best way to drink Tequila del Marinero?

Sipping it neat or on the rocks is a great way to enjoy Tequila del Marinero and taste its nuanced flavor. It also shines when used in cocktails like margaritas and palomas.

Is Tequila del Marinero available in other sizes besides 750ml?

Yes, Tequila del Marinero comes in 750ml, 1 liter, and 1.75 liter sizes. The liters are a great value for sharing or making cocktails.

What is Tequila del Marinero's suggested retail price?

Tequila del Marinero blanco has an SRP of $45-50 for a 750ml bottle depending on your location.