Reviews / Maguey Melate Barril - Jaime Reyes Morales
Review · · by The Editors
Maguey Melate Barril - Jaime Reyes Morales
Jaime Reyes Morales at 58.9% – barril that earns the high proof
Score: 4.0/5 agaves
- Producer: Maguey Melate
- Maestro: Jaime Reyes Morales
- Region: Ejutla, Oaxaca
- Agave: Barril
- ABV: 58.9%
- Price: $70 ($$)
Verdict
High-proof karwinskii usually flattens the agave's subtlety, and Jaime Reyes Morales doesn't let it happen here. The barril stays legible through the ABV because the cuts are disciplined – this is what proof earned through restraint looks like. Closer to Dixeebe territory than typical Melate releases.
Barril at 59% – Jaime proves the math can work
Tasting notes
Nose: Cracked pepper, dried herbs, mineral heat, citrus pith
Palate: 58.9% on barril is a choice and Jaime carries it. The karwinskii's cold spine reads through the heat; what could have been a proof stunt instead lands as concentrated, not aggressive
Finish: Warming, stone – very long
The bottom line
A high-proof barril that doesn't cost the agave