Patrón

Patrón is one of the most recognisable brands in the world. The distinct shape of the bottle, the highly rated liquid produced and the fact that it’s not been around for long makes Patrón one of the most talked-about brands in the world, and it’s done wonders for the tequila category. But what is it exactly that’s made Patrón stand out? Lets take a look.

Patrón originates from Casa 7 Leguas, one of the oldest Mexican distilleries, but in 1989, John Paul DeJoria and Martin Crowley of St. Maarten Spirits purchased the brand rights and in 2002 moved production to a new distillery, Hacienda del Patrón within the highlands of Jalisco, Mexico. It is here that Patrón is created, using harvested 100% Blue Weber agave piña that are first steamed for 79 hours in traditional masonry ovens, before being shredded and macerated using the traditional method of Tahona. Another method, known as the roller mill, is also used, but both are created separately and then blended together. The juice from the macerated agave is transferred to wooden tanks where the fermentation process occurs for 72 hours. This creates a ‘must’ which is then twice distilled in copper pot stills. After each distillation, filtration and blending taking place, all overseen by Master Distiller Francisco Alcaraz, who is also credited for the recipe that Patrón abide by.

The bottles themselves are a thing of beauty. The ovens used to make the Patrón bottles were designed specifically to produce them. The glass artisan measures the amount of glass used to make a Patrón bottle by hand, with each Patrón bottle individually handmade by the artisan and using recycled glass, save the pure crystal Gran Patrón. Each bottle is carefully hand inspected at every stage for shape, volume, clarity and beauty, looking for any imperfections. Fourteen distinct criteria are used to assure quality. Each bottle is individually washed in tequila before it is filled. Workers individually label, hand tie ribbons and wipe the bottle free of dust. The final product is then cradled in paper and boxed.

It’s the liquids that are ultimately the selling point, so below, I give to you my tasting notes –

Patrón Silver – 40%

Fudge and white chocolate aromas upon the nose, with hints of dry pepper, earthy notes and a slight citrus. Sharp, white pepper flavours on the palate, fresh, with a slightly sweet, bold kick of agave that creates a very long finish.

Patrón Reposado – 40%

Aged for 6 to 8 months within ex French, Hungarian and American oak barrels. Plenty of dry oak with vanilla and toffee blending well. Slight smoke near the finish too. Smooth, silky texture on the palate with plenty of agave that creates a sweet finish.

Patrón Añejo – 40%

Aged for 16 months within ex French, Hungarian and American oak barrels. Butterscotch aromas with fudge, vanilla and citrus all on the nose. Soft agave follows nicely. Very smooth upon the palate, with plenty of agave that develops a spice flavour for a dry finish.

Patrón XO Cafe – 35%

A blend of Patrón Silver and infused Mexican coffee beans. Rich, fresh coffee with slight vanilla notes on the nose. Freshly roasted coffee and thick vanilla combine on the palate to create a sweet flavour, but soon disappears.

Patrón Citrónge – 40%

A blend of Patrón Silver infused with lemon and orange peel. Light citrus notes on the nose, with smooth, sweet aroma of agave coming through. Very sweet on the palate though, with sharp orange that mellows into a clean, lingering finish of orange and agave.

A really good range available, and as you can imagine, there have been many bartenders taking full advantage –

Frappe XO Extreme

Glass –

Goblet

Ingredients –