Cuatro Copas is a relatively new brand of premium tequila produced at the fabrica, La Quemada in El Arenal, Jalisco. Though this is a new operation the passion of this venture shines through in the high quality of the 4 Copas line up. On an afternoon of comparing and creating pages for several tequilas in this category I found myself refilling my glass with the 4 Copas Añejo. In the glass it has a rich, sienna color with a healthy body consistent with it's generous time spent in white oak. The spirit has a great balance of herbal, oaky aromas and flavor, semi-sweet on the palate and finish. Other than the bottle of añejo pictured above my experience with tasting the 4 Copas tequilas is admittedly limited. A few years ago I was provided miniature samples of the three standard varieties. I enjoyed them all but the experience was fleeting. I was able to try them again at the 2006 "Spirits of Mexico" event in San Diego which validated my impressions for the quality of these tequilas. The 4 Copas booth at this event was very popular but I was able to talk briefly with company President, Chris Melendez. The company has some great ideas planned for the future including the introduction of a 4 Copas Agave nectar. This is a light syrup produced from the extract of agave. Similar to honey in color and texture but being more versatile, agave nectar is rapidly becoming popular with a growing number of chefs and bartenders.

At this time 4 Copas is only available in Mexico, certain Canadian regions along with Arizona, California and Hawaii in the States. Plans are in place to reach a wider distribution and I'll be looking forward to when I can get 4 Copas more often.

For more info visit the 4copas and La Quemada websites. The sites are well done with nice images and content.