TEQUILA!
El Diamante del Cielo
by Nancy Huang

In the United States, most people have a hard time naming great tequilas other than the usual Patrón or Don Julio. But branch away from the Don and you’ll find a number of excellent tequilas, all with unique flavors and aromas. This January, tequila fans can stock another top-shelf spirit in their home bar: El Diamante del Cielo, or “Diamond of the Sky.” Made by Blavod Extreme Spirits in partnership with Suntory, the makers of Midori, this new tequila comes in the three usual varieties: Añejo, Reposado and Blanco.

The Añejo, the most refined of the three, is aged two to four years before bottling. Its smooth taste with aromas of oak, spice and fruit make it a better sipper than mixer, unlike the Reposado and Blanco. The Reposado’s vanilla and caramel flavors make for an interesting mixer, especially with a strawberry or peach margarita. For the simplest and cheapest mixer, the Blanco is the best bet, although it might be easier on the wallet to choose an inexpensive José Cuervo if you simply want tequila’s bite.

Price per 750 ml bottle:
Añejo: $60
Reposado: $50
Blanco: $45

For more information, visit www.blavodextreme.com

(Published: 12/12/05)