A barrel aged tequila hits the right notes

Mi Campo Blanco Tequila | Mexico | LCBO Code # 43092 | 750 ml $39.95

When we were younger, the tequilas available to us were simply known as Cuervo and Sauza and they continue to be two of the biggest brands globally. Thankfully, we’re no longer confined to drinking those. 

Yes, tequila is still largely consumed in mixed drinks such as Margaritas and Palomas and for these, it’s common to use a cheaper, entry-level blanco tequila. This means a tequila that hasn’t undergone any aging process and stands up a little better with the addition of citrus juices. I recommend you check out 25 Essential Tequila Cocktails for your next get-together.

I recently had the opportunity to compare it next to the Sauza Silver, and the contrast was sharp and immediate. The Sauza tasted watered down and with little character carrying through. Just insipid stuff.

While blanco (aka silver) tequilas generally never see barrel aging, the Mi Campo breaks the mould by giving their product some time in French ex-Napa Chardonnay barrels. It makes for a striking difference.

Straightaway, you’ll notice some sweet vanilla on the nose, followed by a whiff of orange blossoms. On the palate, Mi Campo is eminently smooth, followed by the distinct spice of both cinnamon and clove on a longer finish. For all that, your classic agave tequila character is never masked and there’s no doubt about what you’re drinking. 

I decided a while back that Mi Campo would now become my bar blanco, as it made for such a magnificent Margarita.