Is Calle 23 Criollo Worth It? Unveiling the Value of this Premium Tequila

Tequila aficionados are constantly on the lookout for unique and exceptional spirits to add to their collection. With the recent release of Calle 23 Criollo, the tequila market has been buzzing with excitement. But amidst all the hype, the question remains: Is Calle 23 Criollo worth it? In this comprehensive review, we’ll delve into the various aspects of this limited edition tequila to help you decide whether it’s worth the investment.

Calle 23 Criollo

Unique Production Process

Calle 23 Criollo stands out due to its distinctive production process. Unlike many other tequilas on the market, Criollo is crafted exclusively from small, super sweet agaves known as Blue Agave ‘Criollo’. These agaves are meticulously selected from the highlands of Jalisco, where they thrive in the region’s unique climate and soil conditions.

Sophie Decobecq, the mastermind behind Criollo, opted to focus solely on these special agaves to create a tequila that captures their unique flavors and characteristics. By using only Blue Agave ‘Criollo’ plants, Criollo offers a taste experience unlike any other, showcasing the richness and complexity of these unique agaves.

Flavor Profile

The flavor profile of Calle 23 Criollo is a testament to its exceptional quality and craftsmanship. From the moment it hits the nose, Criollo entices with its sweet and sugary aroma, hinting at the abundance of ripe agave and tropical fruit notes to come. Upon tasting, Criollo reveals a rich and layered flavor profile, with nuances of agave, citrus, and spice dancing on the palate. Despite its high alcohol content, Criollo maintains a smooth and balanced character, making it a delight to sip and savor.

Limited Edition Appeal

Part of what makes Calle 23 Criollo so special is its limited edition status. With only 16,019 bottles produced, Criollo is a rare find that appeals to collectors and enthusiasts seeking something truly unique. Each bottle is hand-blown and individually numbered, adding to its exclusivity and charm. The limited availability of Criollo adds to its allure, making it a coveted addition to any tequila collection.

Artistic Presentation

In addition to its exceptional taste, Calle 23 Criollo also captivates with its artistic presentation. The hand-blown bottles feature stunning artwork by Rose Guerrero, adding an extra layer of visual appeal to the overall experience. Guerrero’s artwork pays homage to Mexican culture and tradition, further enhancing the connection between Criollo and its roots. From the intricate details of the label to the unique shape of the bottle, every aspect of Criollo’s presentation reflects the care and attention to detail that went into its creation.

Expert Recognition

Calle 23 Criollo has garnered praise from experts and enthusiasts alike within the tequila community. Its exceptional quality and distinctive flavor profile have earned it critical acclaim, cementing its reputation as one of the top blancos on the market. Whether sipped neat or mixed in cocktails, Criollo consistently delivers a memorable drinking experience that leaves a lasting impression on those who have the pleasure of tasting it.

In summary, Calle 23 Criollo is much more than just a tequila – it’s a testament to craftsmanship, tradition, and innovation. From its unique production process to its exceptional flavor profile and limited edition appeal, Criollo stands out as a true masterpiece of the tequila world. Whether enjoyed on special occasions or savored as a prized addition to a collection, Criollo embodies the spirit of excellence and passion that defines the world of fine tequila.

Evaluating the Price

One of the most important factors to consider when determining whether Calle 23 Criollo is worth it is its price point. At around $80-85 per bottle, Criollo is positioned as a premium tequila, competing with other high-end blancos on the market.

Comparing Value

When assessing the price of Calle 23 Criollo, it’s essential to compare it to other tequilas in a similar price range. By evaluating factors such as production quality, flavor complexity, and overall drinking experience, we can determine whether Criollo offers good value for money compared to its competitors.

Production Quality

Calle 23 Criollo is crafted with meticulous attention to detail, using only the finest Blue Agave ‘Criollo’ plants sourced from the highlands of Jalisco. The small, super sweet agaves are hand-selected for their exceptional quality, ensuring that every bottle of Criollo delivers a superior tasting experience. The use of a moderate cooking process in an autoclave further enhances the flavor profile of Criollo, resulting in a tequila of unparalleled quality and craftsmanship.

Flavor Complexity

One of the key factors that sets Calle 23 Criollo apart is its exceptional flavor profile. From its sweet and sugary nose to its rich and layered taste, Criollo offers a sensory journey that delights the palate with every sip. The nuanced blend of agave, citrus, and spice notes creates a truly unique drinking experience that showcases the depth and complexity of this premium tequila.

Drinking Experience

Beyond its flavor profile, Calle 23 Criollo also excels in terms of its overall drinking experience. Despite its high proof (49.3% abv), Criollo is surprisingly smooth and drinkable, making it a favorite among blanco connoisseurs. Whether enjoyed neat or mixed in cocktails, Criollo consistently delivers a memorable drinking experience that leaves a lasting impression on those who have the pleasure of tasting it.

Limited Edition Appeal

Another factor to consider when evaluating the price of Calle 23 Criollo is its limited edition status. With only 16,019 bottles produced, Criollo is a rare find that appeals to collectors and enthusiasts seeking something truly unique. The exclusivity of Criollo adds to its allure and desirability, making it a coveted addition to any tequila collection.

Artistic Presentation

In addition to its exceptional taste and limited edition appeal, Calle 23 Criollo also captivates with its artistic presentation. The hand-blown bottles featuring artwork by Rose Guerrero add an extra layer of visual appeal to the overall experience. Guerrero’s intricate designs pay homage to Mexican culture and tradition, further enhancing the connection between Criollo and its roots.

Expert Opinions

Ultimately, the price of Calle 23 Criollo is influenced by its exceptional quality, limited edition appeal, and artistic presentation. While it may be priced higher than some other tequilas on the market, the value of Criollo lies in its superior craftsmanship, unique flavor profile, and overall drinking experience. For enthusiasts seeking a premium and distinctive blanco, Criollo is undoubtedly worth the investment.

Assessing the Flavor Profile

The flavor profile of Calle 23 Criollo is a crucial consideration when determining its worth. As a high-proof blanco tequila, Criollo is expected to deliver bold and complex flavors that set it apart from other offerings on the market.

Aromas

The journey into the flavor profile of Calle 23 Criollo begins with its enticing aromas. From the moment the bottle is opened, Criollo releases a sweet and sugary bouquet that immediately captivates the senses. The aroma is reminiscent of ripe agave, with hints of tropical fruits and floral notes lingering in the air. This initial olfactory experience sets the stage for what promises to be a delightful tasting journey.

Taste

Upon taking the first sip of Calle 23 Criollo, the palate is greeted with a symphony of flavors that dance across the tongue. The rich and layered taste profile of Criollo is a testament to its exceptional quality and craftsmanship. Notes of agave dominate the forefront, with hints of citrus adding a refreshing brightness to the palate. As the tequila lingers on the tongue, subtle undertones of spice emerge, adding depth and complexity to the overall flavor profile. Despite its high alcohol content, Criollo maintains a smooth and balanced character, making it a pleasure to drink neat or in cocktails.

Finish

The finish of Calle 23 Criollo is a satisfying conclusion to the tasting experience. As the tequila glides down the throat, it leaves behind a lingering warmth that is both comforting and invigorating. The finish is long and smooth, with the flavors of agave and oak lingering on the palate long after the last sip. This lingering finish invites further exploration, encouraging drinkers to savor every moment of the Criollo experience.

Complexity and Balance

What sets Calle 23 Criollo apart is its remarkable balance and complexity. The interplay of flavors – from the sweetness of the agave to the zesty citrus notes and subtle spice undertones – creates a multi-dimensional taste experience that evolves with each sip. Despite its high proof, Criollo manages to strike a perfect balance between boldness and smoothness, ensuring that every aspect of its flavor profile is harmoniously integrated.

Pairing Possibilities

The versatility of Calle 23 Criollo extends beyond its exceptional taste profile to its potential for pairing with a variety of foods and cocktails. Its rich and nuanced flavors make it an ideal companion to a range of dishes, from traditional Mexican cuisine to contemporary culinary creations. Whether enjoyed alongside spicy tacos, grilled seafood, or decadent desserts, Criollo adds depth and complexity to any dining experience. Additionally, Criollo’s smooth and balanced character makes it an excellent base for crafting cocktails, allowing bartenders to experiment with different flavor combinations and techniques.

Expert Opinions

To provide a well-rounded assessment of Calle 23 Criollo, it’s essential to consider the opinions of experts and enthusiasts in the tequila community. By gathering insights from industry professionals and experienced tasters, we can gain valuable perspectives on the quality and value of Criollo.

Critical Acclaim

Calle 23 Criollo has garnered praise from critics and industry professionals for its exceptional quality and distinctive flavor profile. Reviews from respected publications and tasting competitions serve as a testament to Criollo’s excellence, helping to solidify its reputation as a top-tier tequila. The recognition and accolades received by Criollo underscore its standing as a standout choice among blancos on the market.

Tasting Notes

Expert tastings provide valuable insights into the nuances and complexities of Calle 23 Criollo’s flavor profile. By conducting blind tastings and rigorous evaluations, experts can assess the tequila’s aroma, taste, and finish with precision and accuracy. Their detailed tasting notes offer a comprehensive understanding of Criollo’s sensory attributes, helping consumers make informed decisions about their tequila selections.

Industry Recognition

Beyond individual tastings, industry recognition and awards further validate the quality and craftsmanship of Calle 23 Criollo. Awards from prestigious competitions and organizations highlight Criollo’s excellence within the tequila category, reinforcing its status as a premium offering worthy of attention and acclaim. The accolades bestowed upon Criollo by industry experts serve as a seal of approval, affirming its position as a top choice for discerning drinkers.

Consumer Feedback

In addition to expert opinions, consumer feedback provides valuable perspectives on Calle 23 Criollo’s appeal and overall drinking experience. Reviews and testimonials from enthusiasts who have had the opportunity to taste Criollo firsthand offer insights into its flavor profile, versatility, and value for money. By considering the opinions and experiences of consumers, we can gain a holistic understanding of Criollo’s reputation and desirability among tequila aficionados.

Influence on Purchasing Decisions

Expert opinions play a significant role in shaping consumer purchasing decisions within the tequila market. Recommendations from trusted sources and industry professionals carry weight and influence, guiding consumers toward premium offerings like Calle 23 Criollo. The endorsement of experts lends credibility to Criollo’s brand image and contributes to its success in the competitive spirits landscape.

Conclusion

Calle 23 Criollo is a tequila worth considering for enthusiasts seeking a premium and distinctive blanco. Its unique production process, exceptional flavor profile, and limited edition status make it a standout choice for collectors and connoisseurs alike. While its price point may be higher than some other offerings on the market, the quality and craftsmanship of Criollo justify the investment for those who appreciate fine tequila. Ultimately, whether Calle 23 Criollo is worth it comes down to individual preferences and priorities. For those who value exceptional quality and exclusivity, Criollo is undoubtedly a worthy addition to any tequila collection.