I was initially skeptical of of non-alcoholic spirits, but Ritual's Tequila Alternative convinced me there may be something to this new trend. This was the first zero proof spirit I have tried and it has certainly wetted my appetite for more. True fans of Tequila (such as myself) may be mixed on this because - this is not going to be entirely identical to a reposado tequila - but rather a mimic or as close as possible using natural flavoring. However, I strongly encourage everyone to give it a try, especially in a cocktail!
Bottle / Packaging - 5/5
First of all, major props to their boxed packages which quite narrowly fit with the bottle to prevent movement from transport to cause damage. The bottle design itself is quite nice and stylish in a minimalist sense. I could easily picture this along side tequilas at a liquor store. The package also came with a booklet and suggested cocktail recipes. Also, very pleased they actually made use of corks. I don't think it was necessary but going the extra mile shows a real dedication to providing a zero proof alternatives for those who enjoyed traditional spirits.
Nose - 6/5
Yeah, I am cheating and giving a bonus point but in truth this product deserves it because the nose by far exceed my expectations. It smells close to a tequila with lightly roasted agave and floral notes dominant with freshly squeezed lime. Aromatic peppery notes are present but pleasantly tame. The nose is light and delicate, yet the aromas are quite pleasing.
Taste (Neat) - 4/5
The peppery note which was light on the nose plays a more prominent role and forward role on the taste. This was initially overwhelming, but upon additional sips my palate acclimated and the more floral and fruity notes came into play. It reminded me a bit more of a mezcal than a standard blanco or reposado tequila - as there is a far bit of smoke to the taste (which is fine by me!). A touch of sweetness to this product. The flavor of this product is actually fairly decent, although it is clearly designed more for standing up to other ingredients in a cocktail that consumed on it own. If consumed neat, I would recommend lime wedges and salt to balance the flavors.
Taste (Cocktails) - 5/5
Here is where this product really shines. I began with three cocktails - Tommy's Margarita, Paloma, and Espresso Martini mocktail with tequila (inspired by Steve the Bartender on YouTube). All three of these drinks were excellent! The "spirit", if properly balanced shines through the drink and plays with all of the ingredients in a manner similar to a traditional tequila. A good tell of quality is that I did not need to alter any ratios to bring out the tequila flavor from the drink, so we have a product that brings about a balanced drink. In fact, for the Tommy's Margarita, my wife initially was unaware that I used the zero proof.
For the reasonable price, Ritual have a good quality product that will help people in recovery, or wanting to drink casually without the buzz. For those skeptical, I will say this product, again, exceeded my initially low expectations and I was quite pleasantly surprised. I would highly recommend giving it a try!
Good job Ritual! I look forward to trying out your Gin and Whiskey as well!
Filtered water, natural flavors, cane sugar, citric acid, xanthan gum, salt, caramel color, sodium benzoate & potassium sorbate as preservatives
