The New York World Spirits Competition, a yearly event taking place in Brooklyn, has rapidly established itself as a beacon of excellence in the spirits industry. Emulating the prestige of its San Francisco counterpart, this competition gathers a panel of expert tasters who meticulously evaluate a diverse range of liquors. As 2024 draws to a close, this year’s awards have drawn considerable attention, especially for their crowning of Nobleza 33 Reposado as the ultimate tequila champion.
Nobleza 33 Reposado emerges from the lush highlands of Jalisco, Mexico, a region renowned for its exceptional agave. Aging in a blend of freshly-emptied ex-bourbon barrels for a period of 4 to 6 months, this tequila absorbs an intriguing bouquet of flavors including coconut, cinnamon, and Madagascar vanilla. However, it is the tasting experience, particularly when enjoyed neat, that truly showcases its character.
The initial sweetness derived from caramelized roasted agave gradually gives way to more complex notes, including hints of savory Herbs de Provence and the elegance of hazelnut. This transformation in flavor is not only impressive but exemplifies the tequila’s layered profile, inviting drinkers to appreciate its depth over time.
At the heart of Nobleza 33’s success lies its master distiller, Felipe Camarena. An influential figure in the tequila-making community, Camarena operates Destileria El Pandillo, which is celebrated for producing some of the finest tequilas available today, including the esteemed Tequila G4 and the ArteNOM Selección de 1579 line.
Camarena’s commitment to traditional methods, such as utilizing tahona wheels to mill his meticulously cultivated agave, sets Nobleza 33 apart. This dedication to craftsmanship and quality is evident in the choice of barrels for aging, where only the finest cooperage is employed. The result is an elixir that has captivated the palates of spirits enthusiasts and created a distinctive identity in a highly competitive market.
Nobleza 33 Reposado did not simply win the accolades at the New York competition; it also secured the title of „Best of Class“ at the 2024 San Francisco World Spirits Competition. Such accolades speak volumes about the quality and uniqueness of this tequila, especially given the stiff competition it faced from both established and emerging brands.
While it is certainly noteworthy that Nobleza 33 deserves recognition, the financial investment required to enjoy this spirit cannot go unmentioned. Priced at about $210 per bottle, it positions itself in the premium segment of the market—a figure that may deter casual drinkers or those unfamiliar with the brand.
Further enhancing Nobleza’s portfolio is its other reposado variant, Reposado Legado. With an aging process that involves sherry-seasoned casks instead of ex-bourbon barrels and an elevated proof of 84, this expression offers a spicier alternative, enriched with dark chocolate and red berry notes. For enthusiasts seeking a distinctive tasting experience, the Legado variant might prove to be even more remarkable than its standard counterpart.
Despite its accolades, Nobleza 33 Reposado remains a relatively unknown entity within the broader tequila market, especially among consumers in the U.S. The award recognition at prestigious competitions can undoubtedly augment the brand’s visibility and potentially reshape its fortune in the market. As distribution expands and more tequila enthusiasts discover this exceptional offering, Nobleza 33 may soon transition from a hidden gem to a household name.
In an increasingly crowded market, Nobleza 33 Reposado stands as a testament to quality craftsmanship, rich flavor profiles, and the tradition of tequila-making. With its distinct character and accolades from respected competitions, this spirit not only elevates the standards of what tequila can be but also invites us to explore the depths of its complexity. As Noblezza 33 continues to garner recognition, its journey is one worth following for any spirits aficionado eager to discover their next prized pour.
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