As opposed to the high proof repo, La Pulga’s anejo offering has notably more character on the nose. Additionally, the oak component(I still suspect virgin american oak) is more well integrated than the high proof reposado. On the nose I get almost a bourbon-esque profile. Cherry, barrel spice, vanilla, honey, cocoa, and clove. The palate is very similar to the nose, fruity with some subtle spice. I do get citrus notes, and light agave tones but all in all this is a very oak driven profile. The finish does drop off, as opposed to the high proof reposado, but I prefer the palate on the anejo overall. A curious anejo, one that feels targeted toward an American whiskey market.

Substantial oak influence for just a few months in a barrel. It wouldn’t surprise me if the oak barrels used for this Reposado were virgin American oak. Feels a bit like the barrel influence is fighting the distillate. The nose was rather tame, some light caramels, brown sugars & some ground ginger. The palate had a substantial amount of wood spice, cinnamon, cardamom, clove and more ginger. The finish led with cooked agave, citrus, lime wedge, grass and pencil shavings. The higher ABV is appreciated and no doubt added to my enjoyment of the finish. I like this profile, but I fear the suspected virgin oak component is overpowering the nuance of the distillate.

La Pulga Anejo Sample from Mark Czerwonka I saved the best for last tonight. Enjoying this expression. Nicely balanced between barrel notes, cherry, sweetness, oak and the agave is still there