Tres Agaves Blanco Tequila
Rating: NNN
Why Pitched as the ideal margarita tequila, Tres Agaves is typically blanco: agave-forward, herbal and citrusy, with a pinch of spice. The bitter finish is perhaps best confined to a zesty cocktail, which suits my springtime mantra: it’s 5 o’clock somewhere.
Price 750 ml/$59.55
Availability LCBO 399451
Piger Henricus Gin
Rating: NNN
Why Micro-distilled in Quebec (350-litre batches in a pot still actually counts as “micro”), what sets Piger Henricus apart from other gins is its oddball ingredient, parsnips. Along with more standard botanicals like juniper, coriander, cardamom and lemon peel, parsnips contribute floral highs, vegetal lows and a silkier mouth feel.
Price 750 ml/$39.55
Availability LCBO 398842
Wódka Zoladkowa Gorzka
Rating: NNN
Why The internet tells me “Wódka Zoladkowa Gorzka” loosely translates as “bitter stomach vodka,” which I choose to believe regardless of whether or not it’s actually true (even as my Polish ancestors squirm in their graves). You could think of this proprietary blend of herbs, spices and dried fruits as Poland’s sweeter, easier answer to Fernet-Branca.
Price 750 ml/$25.35
Availability Vintages 547679
