Review by: The Auditor
This spirit here is Viche, a sugar cane spirit from the Colombian Pacific. Being that it is a Viche, it can only be crafted by those of Afro-Colombian decent in the Colombian Pacific as it is part of their culture and heritage. This falls in the departments (states) of Narino, Cauca, Valle del Cauca, and Choco. Mano de Buey is produced in Soledad Curay, a village wihin the Tumaco inelt, in Southern Colombia.
This bottling was produced by the Vichero Master Onésimo González Biojó and Family. They use Cane Type POJ 2878 which has been grown in Soledad Curay since 1935. The cane juice is extracted by pressing cold cane by hand and with animal traction in a wooden trapiche. The fresh pressed juice is then fermented for 3-4 days. Distilled simply to final grade with no water added. It is rested for 4 weeks before being bottled.
Region: Colombia
ABV: 40%
Age: Unaged
Nose: Fruity, Green Apple, Lemon Zest, Bubblegum, Raw bell pepper, vanilla, over-ripe blueberry, Olives, Brine, Acidic
Palate: Medium mouthfeel, Green Apple, Lemon Zest, blueberry, minerality, Acidic, Sweat, Lime Peel, Olives, Brine
Finish: Medium length finish, green apple, Lemon Zest, Bell Pepper, Minerality, Sweat, Olives, Brine
Conclusion: A standout spirit for sure. This is pretty complex and subtle. Once you get past the kind of sweaty notes it opens up to a basket of fruits and vegetables, minerality, and spices. This is the kind of low proof flavorful spirit that can keep your attention all evening.
Final Score: 88
Scoring Legend:
- 95-100: As good as it gets. Jaw-dropping, eye-widening, unforgettable whisky.
- 90-94: Sublime, a personal favorite in its category.
- 85-89: Excellent, a standout dram.
- 80-84: Quite good. Quality stuff.
- 75-79: Decent whisky worth tasting.
- 70-74: Meh. It’s definitely drinkable, but it can do better.
- 60-69: Not so good. I might not turn down a glass if I needed a drink.
- 50-59: Save it for mixing.
- 0-49: Blech.
Malt Runners 