Destileria y Bodega Abasolo
Almave
Almave is the latest in a trend of celebrity-backed nonalcoholic spirits, this time courtesy of F1 racer Lewis Hamilton. Unlike many products in the category, this one is actually distilled — Blue Weber agave piñas are harvested, crushed and cooked just like a typical tequila, the only step missing is the boozy fermentation process. Production is overseen by Casa Lumbre co-founder Iván Saldaña, who also has a hand in Montelobos Mezcal, Ancho Reyes liqueur and Abasolo Ancestral Corn Whisky.
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Cooked agave, citric acid and a distinct candy note I can liken only to blue raspberry flavor. It's an odd mix, though I've come to appreciate that nonalcoholic spirits sometimes dabble in scents totally out of sync with their palate.
Plenty of agave, more akin to the honeyed bite of agave syrup than the roasty flavor of tequila. There's hints of florality, lime rind and vanilla swirling around as well. I've never tasted something quite like this. The mouthfeel is decidedly thin, giving it the overall vibe of an iced tea brewed with agave and baking spices.
A touch of black pepper, lemon and acidity. And a prickle not unlike alcohol? Something's been put in here to mimic a tequila finish and it works surprisingly well.
There's no denying that this is an agave beverage through and through. The subtle sweetness is there, the Blue Weber is absolutely present and the citrus hits just the right note. The only thing truly lacking is the mouthfeel, something which perhaps wouldn't matter if you're using this inside a cocktail (as I suspect is intended).
85
Disclosure: The producer provided this sample to review free of charge, and without expectation of review or rating.
