Cacique Superior Guaro

Guaro is a sugar cane-based liquor and is the best-selling distilled spirit in Costa Rica. Known as "Costa Rican liqueur." Three versions in the Cacique lineup: Guaro red label 30%, Superior black label 35%, and Roncolorado yellow label 30% ABV. A variety within a larger distilate category, aguardiente, common in Central and South America, often made from pulp left over from cane sugar extraction. Purchased this 365 ml plastic bottle of Superior black label in 2015-16 while in Costa Rica. Had many drinks while in-country (cola and guaro, a Vida Libre), but brought this home and... forgot about it. Tasting neat. Clear with weak legs in the glass. Clean, lightly floral sugar cane nose. Raw alcohol in the mouth, but at such a modest 35% ABV that it is a dull burn. Sugar cane and sweet, but with an odd chemical and sour tang within a funky earthy hogo. Finish is slightly sour with a lingering lip tingle that lasts a long time. It's an aguardiente. It's local, ordinary, cheap, and (being well-made in Costa Rica) it does the trick. No need to think deeper. Mixed with cola soda, it's the national drink... of sorts.