Reviews / El Pintor Ensamble
Review · · by The Editors
El Pintor Ensamble
Ensamble at 41%, below the category's seriousness floor, and demonstrably so
Score: 1.5/5 agaves
- Producer: El Pintor
- Region: Yautepec, Oaxaca
- Agave: Cuishe, Espadin
- ABV: 41%
- Price: $150 ($$)
Verdict
41% ensamble is an economics decision, not a recipe decision. Two or three agaves sharing a bottle at this proof produces a composition that can't develop, the base can't carry anything. Skip; Banhez Ensamble at less money is legitimate ensamble work. El Pintor isn't even trying, and the bottle reads that way.
41% ensamble is where the category stops meaning much of anything
Tasting notes
Nose: Faint smoke, muted wildflower, a trace of sour-fruit
Palate: Thin at 41% – commercial production at commercial proof. The ensamble label is generous for what's in the glass; the cuishe contribution barely registers on top of an espadín base that itself is underpowered
Finish: Bitter, with a faint smoke fade
The bottom line
Skip
Where to buy online
We found this bottle at 4 US retailers. Prices and stock vary – click through to check.