It’s Cinco de Mayo time and that means we’re all Mexican, at least for a day. We recently lifted a glass of Peligroso Silver Tequila ($26.25; 80 proof) and enjoyed its pleasant citrus aroma with a hint of spice and its smooth and fresh-tasting flavor. We were pleasantly surprised by another product from the same distillery: Peligroso Cinnamon Tequila Liqueur ($20.15; 70 proof). Light amber with a toasty vanilla cinnamon aroma, it’s suffused with a spicy flavor that’s only a bit sweet. Cinnamon and tequila make a winning pair here. For an alternative to the traditional margarita, here’s a refreshing cocktail that combines the two:
Ohio distilleries continue to impress. Among our most recent discoveries is Boardman-based Candella Micro-Distillery, which began operations in 2013 with the production of its Y-town Vodka ($34.75; 80 proof) distilled from cane sugar. We liked its delicate herbal aroma and found it quite flavorful with a subtle hint of apple.
Cleveland’s Portside Distillery has a winner in its Portside Spiced Rum ($27.50; 100 proof), a tasty, high-octane rum infused with cinnamon, allspice, vanilla and raisins. Its potent aroma of caramelized sugar and spices follows through on the palate, with a distinctive flavor reminiscent of mincemeat though devoid of sweetness. It would pair well with any tropical fruit juice over ice, but be careful! This 100-proof liquor isn’t for lightweights.
Prices may vary.
