A name that does not match
Pros:
A widely accepted añejo for those who prefer the classic, hard añejo tequilas.
Cons:
No smoothness. Needs more agave presence in the flavor structure. Slightly bitter finish.
The Bottom Line:
Perhaps you like strong and hard añejos, full of robust oak notes and hard texture. A rare añejo that is powerful but lacks true agave feeling.
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Overall Rating:
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Author's Review
Several readers are asking me to update many of my tequila reviews, and I agree in part because so many things have changed in the local tequila industry over the last years that, in honest analysis, most reviews about tequilas 2 or 3 years ago may be very off target by now. Lets begin with the very popular and local favorite, 3 Generaciones from Sauza.
As you probably know, Sauza is one of the BIG tequila names in the industry, with a long history of success and a wide variety of products up to this date. It was regarded as THE best tequila producer for about 30 years around the 40's thru early 70´s, but then teaquila´s reputation was far less sophisticated that today. In all, Sauza has been around for a LONG time, perhaps longer than enyone else in the business.
THE PRODUCT
3 Generaciones is (or was) intended as a "tribute" honoring the 3 generations involved in this brand´s history. Initially intended to be a "one time limited edition", it remains now as one of the fancier products, arguably the best añejo Sauza produces. It has endured a couple of major face-lifts during the years, and the tequila itself has suffered quite a bunch of quality and flavor variations. Used to be a superb añejo, then transformed into a smelly, hard and almost disgusting oaky concontion, and gradually evoluted into a decent añejo once again.
TODAY´S 3 GENERACIONES
Classy looks and a unique, opaque amber colored bottle makes 3G one of the most recognizeable tequilas in Mexico. This añejo is not heavy colored ( a nice change from the almost muddy and thick brown color a few years back) and displays a clasic bright and light-burnt caramel color, a wavy movement and a higher than usual viscosity. It likes to be seen through the glass, swirling around in shiny waves that leave a nice, slow falling set of droplets.
On the nose, the main elements are powerful sweet over-cooked agaves, a thick layer of oak, and some un-characteristic leathery bits. The alcohol element is very strong, almos overpowering, and in general there is a musky accent on the way out. I am not very fond on this type of balance, but it is what makes 3G so easy to identify by nose.
On the mouth, all Sauzas tend to be very peppery and electric at first. 3G is no exception, as the first sips appear to be full of oak and alcohol, but very little agave. As the taste builds with subsequent drinking, the flavor structure gains composture, and more harmonious agave notes blend with blunt oak accents, a persistent charcoaly note that never goes away, and a few herbal accents, even a funny "prunish" touch.
Widely accepted BOT as apperitive and digestive, Sauza 3G is an old charmer. Strong enough for traditional tastes, and beefy enough to please aged spirits lovers. Overall is a fairly decent añejo, but still "thin" on agave notes, and also a peppery attack with a sharp alcohol sting that keeps it away from the big leagues.
Todays Sauza 3G is a good, drinkable alternative, beter than it was 2 years ago. Dont ask me why this happens, but it does.
ENJOY
