17 June,2024 08:46 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Both the Añejo (in picture) and Extra Añejo variants are rich, bold and complex spirits, with their own unique characteristics and nuances. Photo Courtesy: Maya Pistola Agavepura
Maya Pistola Agavepura has launched its highly anticipated Añejo and Extra Añejo variants in Mumbai. These variations mark a new chapter in the journey of the brand, which is Asia's first premium 100 per cent Agave spirit, by offering connoisseurs an elevated sipping experience that embodies the artistry and tradition of agave distillation.
The Añejo (An-ye-ho), which means 'vintage' in Spanish, is a highly acclaimed expression, delights with its smooth and nuanced character. With its deep golden-brown hue, Maya Pistola Añejo has an oaky nose of cocoa and dried figs, with a subtle smoky background. Each small-batch is aged for over 14 months in Virgin American White Oak, which imparts the notes of caramel and the fragrance of vanilla to the peppery, herbaceous agave spirit. Smooth and rich, this expression is best enjoyed neat or with a splash of water. Called "enchanting and approachable" by the International World Spirits Competition, this spirit is enjoyed by single malt drinkers, and offers a touch of spiciness over a lingering sweetness.
The Extra Añejo (Extra An-ye-ho) variant is the most premium spirit of the range available in the market today. Patiently matured for over 36 months, this extra-special liquid has been beautifully rested in Virgin American White Oak barrels to get the vanilla and caramel from the wood, and then finished in Ex-Maker's Mark barrels for a dimension of butterscotch and dry spice. While most other agave spirits available in India are between 38 to 40 per cent ABV, Maya Pistola Extra Añejo comes in at 48 per cent ABV, making it spirit-heavy and robust, and offering a velvety palate with a complex and elongated mouthfeel. This unique spirit delivers a truly decadent experience with warm, rich flavours of dark chocolate, spiced caramel, candied cherries, toffee, and honey, rounded with a sophisticated subtle smoky finish. Similar to a Cognac, it is meant to be sipped neat or on the rocks.
These variants have recently won several prestigious awards across the world. In 2024, The Spirits Business Spring Bling Tasting Awards (United Kingdom) honoured the brand with two Silvers for its Añejo & Extra Añejo variants. At the Global Spirits Masters Competition (United Kingdom), the Añejo variants secured Gold while at the Bartender Spirits Awards (United States of America), the Añejo variants earned a Bronze award.
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"We are thrilled to introduce our Añejo and Extra Añejo variants to our discerning consumers," said, Rakshay Dhariwal, director & founder, Maya Pistola Agavepura. "These expressions represent the pinnacle of our craftsmanship, showcasing the depth and complexity that can only be achieved through time-honoured aging techniques. We are confident that both connoisseurs and new-age consumers alike will appreciate the unparalleled quality and flavour profile of these exceptional spirits."
"Both the Añejo and Extra Añejo variants are rich, bold and complex spirits, with their own unique characteristics and nuances. The Añejo is reminiscent of a Christmas cake packed with flavors of dried fruits, nuts, and spices and cherished for the joy that it brings to special occasions. The Extra Añejo invokes the warmth and comfort of loved ones gathering around a fireplace. These luxurious spirits offer an alternative to India's consummate whisky aficionados," says chief operating officer, Kimberly Pereira.
Maya Pistola Agavepura's new premium variants, priced at Rs 7,850 for Añejo (700 ml) and Rs 17,500 for Extra Añejo (700 ml) respectively, are available at select retail stores in Maharashtra. The nips are available for INR 2,495 (180 ml) for the Añejo and INR 4,500 (180 ml) for Extra Añejo. The variants will also be pouring at leading F&B establishments in Mumbai.
Since it launched in 2022, Maya Pistola Agavepura has expanded its reach from Goa to several Indian states, including Maharashtra, Karnataka, Haryana, and most recently to West Bengal, and Assam. In May 2024, it was also available in select cities in the United States of America including Chicago, New Jersey and Washington DC, as well as Singapore, and Thailand.