5 Sentidos Jabali - Sergio Juárez Patricio

Verdict

Juarez is a capable producer from San Agustín Amatengo and the build here is honest. The limiting factor is proof – jabalí is one of the agaves where each additional degree of alcohol unlocks aromatics, and under-proofed jabalí always reads slightly ghostly. If you want jabalí as a benchmark, take the Alberto Martinez release above. This is a lighter secondary pour.

Tasting notes

Nose: Melon rind – then cooked agave, dry herb, a thread of pepper

Palate: At 45.7% the proof is below where jabalí really lives – the aromatics are there but they don't extend through the mid-palate the way Martinez's clay-pot version does. Juarez's refrescador rig delivers clean liquid; jabalí would prefer more energy

Finish: Herbal, slightly clipped – medium

The bottom line

Pass for the Martinez jabalí; come back if you already love this agave