Milagro Tequila Select Barrel Reserve Reposado

I had never tasted tequilla because I had always heard tequilla had a bitter taste and burned when swallowed. While aboard the Splendour of the Sea cruise ship I was given a sample by the gentleman working in the liquor store, Ciprian, and it was wonderful. Didn't burn going down, wasn't bitter, tasted great! I don't know what the price of this tequilla is, as I didn't purchase it, I was given a shot.

Bought 1/15/10 paid ~$70 at costco, came in a gift pack of the three (anejo, Repo, blanco) barrel select tequilas in .375 ml. The bottle and overall display group is impressive and would be a great gift. Tasted the Anejo and Reposado back to back in a 6 oz. shot glass. The repo's color is light straw, no legs or tears just instant gathering on the glass. The repo has a smooth nose light agave/alcohol, very clean. Initial taste is smooth agave with a bit of a alcohol tinge the body is typical of an Repo, thiner than what I'm accustomed too but overall presence is good. Has a nice heated finish that lingers a bit, overall smooth and balanced, but without the more complex personality of it's older anejo brother. Awarded 89 for the tequila

I bought this one on a whim and I heard it went down smoothly. The initial aroma was pleasant with vanilla standing out but a little light. There was a little pepper in the first sip, but not near as strong as most Don Julio selections. The finish was good but a little on the thin side. For a reposado, it was a good price at $45 but I usually prefer a extra anejo with no bite during the finish. Would I recommend this one ? Yes, to expand your experiences and the bottle will make a cool display.

A nose of agave, grass, earth...and French oak. I'm afraid triple distillation has taken away some character. The taste is sweet cooked agave and French oak with some bitterness, and there is a bit of caramel and light spice. Fairly thin and dry body without a lot to offer. A quick and somewhat non-existent finish. There is not much of a lingering at all, except for maybe a tinge of vegetal flavor.

Nothing really offensive here, but just not a lot going on, and not consistent throughout. There's a big hurt on price; this sells at a serious premium that simply can't be substantiated except for the bottle itself. Speaking of the bottle, it is beautiful to be sure - exquisite heavy glass with an intricate interior agave form. It also comes in a nice box. Too bad the juice inside doesn't match the presentation outside.