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Watch Japanese Breakfast Do A Perfectly Twee Cover Of Dolly Parton’s ‘Here You Come Again’

I don’t know if you’ve noticed, but Japanese Breakfast‘s Michelle Zauner is kind of becoming a low-key cover queen. In the past, she’s performed renditions of Tears For Fears‘ “Head Over Heels, The Cardigans’ “Lovefool,” Wilco’s “Jesus, Etc,” and The Mamas & The Papas’ “California Dreamin,’” among others.

As Stereogum notes, in a wellness diary for Vanity Fair, Zauner wrote in April about how she was trying to learn a cover of Dolly Parton‘s “Here You Come Again,” saying, “I struggle to learn a Dolly Parton cover with three key changes, but boy does it make me happy. I dare you to listen to ‘Here You Come Again’ without smiling.” Well, she’s achieved that goal, covering Dolly’s “Here You Come Again” at a performance at the National in Richmond, Virginia. Sitting at a keyboard, Zauner offered a light and lovely take on Dolly’s 1977 classic, and audiences seemed to appreciate it too, with many voices joining to sing along. Have a look below.

Yesterday, Zauner offered up a Simlish version of her Jubilee track “Be Sweet” into a gibberish tune for the game’s upcoming Cottage Living expansion pack. Zauner also recently spoke to Uproxx about the making of Jubilee and how Wilco’s Tweedy inspired her to play an epic guitar solo.

“I was just really inspired by Wilco. Jeff Tweedy and Nels Cline write some of the greatest guitar solos. But they’re a specific type of guitar solo. They’re not like a bad rock solo. They have a narrative. I was really inspired by that song ‘At Least That’s What You Said.’ It feels like this sort of very quiet moment between two people that’s really stripped down for the first minute or two, and then Jeff Tweedy just says everything that’s not said between these people in his guitar solo. ‘Posing For Cars’ is very much about two people who love each other in very different ways, and how both are really valid and deep. It felt like that same kind of buildup moment, where I needed to express all of the underlying emotion in that song through a guitar solo.”

Jubilee is out now via Dead Oceans. Get it here.

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Ducks, Sanitation Trucks, Toy Trains: The ‘Sopranos’ Monopoly Edition Will Celebrate The Series Smallest Details

If you thought Tony Soprano was the king of making hard decisions and betraying friends, it sounds like you haven’t played a game of Monopoly in awhile. Luckily for all you Sopranos fans out there, a version of the game custom-tailored to your interests now exists.

The OP Games recently announced the Emmy award-winning HBO series Sopranos is the next popular television series to get its own special edition of Monopoly. Per usual, the rules and objective of this killer new version of the classic game will remain the same, but the board and all its various pieces have been designed to represent the show and all the unique moments it shared with fans over its six seasons. Among the properties available to purchase are the Soprano’s family house and Satriale’s Pork Store, which you can get to in style with one of the game’s six unique tokens. In the Sopranos edition, the game’s iconic silver tokens take the shape of Baby Duck, The Stugots, Bobby Bacala’s Toy Train Engine, Satriale’s Pig, Dr. Mefli’s Chair, and, of course, the Barone Sanitation Truck.

In addition to these changes, the game’s houses have been renamed “stashes,” and hotels are now “contraband,” making that 17 and older recommended rating make a whole lot more sense. Lastly, Chance cards are now simply “AYY!” cards, and the Community Chest now reads “OHH!”

The Sopranos Monopoly edition comes just ahead of the upcoming Sopranos prequel film — The Many Saints of Newarkwhich follows a young Tony Soprano coming-of-age during a particularly tumultuous time in New Jersey. The film is scheduled to hit theaters and HBO Max on October 1. Until then, step up your Sunday night dinners with Monopoly: The Sopranos edition, which is $40 and available now over on The OP Games official website.

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OhGeesy Announces His Solo Debut With ‘Big Bad Wolf’ Featuring YG

After gaining popularity as the de facto frontman for West Coast party rap crew Shoreline Mafia, LA’s OhGeesy plans to release his debut solo mixtape, Geezyworld Vol. 1, later this summer. To help drum up interest, he solicits YG’s co-sign on his latest single, “Big Bad Wolf,” dropping a money-and-women-themed video for the song that finds the two rappers caught up in a veritable blizzard of bills.

In addition to bundling up against the cash storm, YG and OhGeesy make it rain at the strip club as they spit their turnt-up boasts.

Although Geezyworld Vol. 1 will be OhGeesy’s solo debut, he’s built up enough experience and connections in the rap game to warrant an impressive list of guest stars which not only includes fellow LA upstarts like BlueBucksClan but also features bigger stars like A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie and DaBaby. You can see the full tracklist below.

Watch OhGeesy’s “Big Bad Wolf” video featuring YG above.

Geezyworld Vol. 1 is due 8/27 on Atlantic Records. Pre-save it here.

1. “Intro
2. “Startn Up” Feat. Central Cee
3. “Get Fly” Feat. DaBaby
4. “Big Bad Wolf” Feat. YG
5. “Keeper” Feat. A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie
6. “Secret Service”
7. “Coochie” Feat. Moe Faygoo
8. “Po’ Up”
9. “Who Else” Feat. BlueBucksClan
10. “Peaches N Cream”
11. “They Don’t Know”

OhGeesy is a Warner Music artist. Uproxx is an independent subsidiary of Warner Music Group.

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Ravi Roth Gives Us A Guide On Where To Eat, Drink, Party, And Drink Some More In Glasgow

If you’re one of the 56 percent of Americans that are fully vaccinated (only 56 percent?!), then you’re probably already in the midst of planning out your summer travel itinerary. But what plans are you making for next year? Travel influencer Ravi Roth, host of Gaycation Magazine’s Gaycation Travel Show, as well as his own YouTube show Ravi ‘Round The World thinks you should pick Glasgow unless you don’t like great food and nightlife, beautiful parks, and of course, whisky.

“When people think of Scotland, one of the first cities they associate it with is Edinburgh,” Roth tells us. “However, Glasgow is growing massively as the vegan capital of the U.K., has an avant-garde and super fun Queer nightlife, and is bursting with individuality.” Roth goes to point out that while Glasgow is a “city of grit and fearlessness,” it’s also become a “shining the light on inclusivity and visibility.” Consider us sold!

Roth hit us up with his perfect guide to Glasgow, keying us in on the best food and drink spots, the best places to party, and all of the best ways to spend time in the city. Once you’re done checking out his guide, be sure to watch Ravi’s “Gay Travel Glasgow” video where Ravi takes us on a rapid-fire five-minute tour of the city pre-covid, offering even more selections not covered in this list. For more recent travel mostly focused on the U.S., be sure to catch Ravi on the Gaycation Travel Show, which uploads new episodes every week.

Let’s dive in!

Best Place In Glasgow To Grab A Drink?

Stereo

Stereo is an eco-friendly, vegan, environmentally conscious bar and restaurant. They offer tapas-style small plates which are sharable and a huge assortment of beer, ranging from IPAs to stouts to sours to ciders and everything in between. If you are into a radical environment and love beer, this is your spot. This is one of the only spots in Glasgow that also offers an assortment of gluten-free beer.

Brutti Compadres

Brutti Compadres in the merchant city specializes in Spanish-style tapas. Super affordable and Queer owned. It’s also a great spot to meet people. I love to sit at the bar and drum up a conversation with locals. The espresso martini will get you GOING and the jug of sangria hits the spot. For small plates, I highly recommend Haggis Croquettes Vegetable Paella and the Deep Fried Halloumi to start!

Clydeside Distillery

Do you fancy a cheeky wee drum tasting of whiskey? Visit the Clydeside Distillery, which is Glasgow’s first dedicated single malt whisky distillery. Here, you will experience how whiskey is made, take a tour of the distillery, and have an hour of tastings. I highly recommend a nap after tasting all of this delicious whiskey!

Best Breakfast Spot In Glasgow?

Uniquitous Chip

Glasgow is known for haggis, which is made out of the blood and guts of a lamb. If you are vegetarian like me, that might sound like a “NOPE,” however I experienced the most magical vegetarian haggis at Ubiquitous Chip, a lovely restaurant in the cornerstone of Ashton Lane. Here you will find the cutest aesthetic inside with trees lining the walls and a gorgeous patio.

Stravaigin Glasgow

Stravaigin Glasgow is nestled between Kelvingrove Park and Glasgow University. I have yet to visit a brunch spot where the atmosphere matches the food for an unparalleled experience. The food is local with a Scottish fusion and a hint of East Asian flavor. Vegans, get ready to have your mind blown. You must order the vegan breakfast which includes oyster mushroom okara cake, Morrocan chickpeas, grilled tomato, tattie scone, mushrooms, and wilted spinach.

Eusebi Deli

Eusebi Deli in Glasgow’s West End has become an institution. This Italian hot spot features its own deli and sells freshly made pasta, bread and pastries, as well as its popular restaurant and terrace at the entrance to Glasgow’s Kelvingrove Park. It’s never too early for pasta, right? For brunch, I highly recommend their Italian coffee to start your day. As an appetizer, get the whipped ricotta, which melts in your mouth and dive right into the potato and truffle pizza.

Best Late-Night Dinner Spot?

Bloc+

Y’all want steak, pizza, fries, grease, and a bomb atmosphere? Here, you will find a progressive and independent live music that is bar smack in the centre of Glasgow. They have live music seven nights a week that’s free of charge. From street eats to sweet treats and an array of burgers, you will definitely leave here feeling full.

Ka-Pao

Ka Pao has Asian-inspired food and small sharing dishes. If you aren’t feeling like late-night pizza or grease then come here for Southeast asian delights. The coconut old fashioned melts in your mouth.

Topolabamba

Topolabamba is a Mexican street food restaurant in Glasgow City Centre with attitude! Here they offer heady cocktails, a mouthwatering menu, friendly staff, and an electric atmosphere. You must get the guac and queso to start. Hands down the best Mexican food in Glasgow.

Best Place To Party In Glasgow?

Barrowland Ballroom

Barrowland Ballroom is located in the East End of Glasgow and is one of the World’s most legendary music venues. The Barrowland neon sign out front is said to be the largest in Europe making it a great spot for photo ops. Come here to see both local and iconic performers.

Shoot Your Shot

Shoot Your Shot is an LGBTQIA+ event that’s fully inclusive to the Trans, Black, Brown, and the Non-Binary community. This party happens on the first and third Saturday each month. This is an all-inclusive party for anyone in the LGBTQIA+ community, welcoming everyone with sick dance beats, and super fun theme nights.

Polo Lounge

Polo Lounge is the hottest club in town with a swanky lounge area, cabaret room, and a massive dance club downstairs. Everyone — both tourists and locals alike — ends the night at Polo. I sat in the cabaret room listening to ferocious vocals then danced my face off for half of the nights downstairs. I was truly trying to meet my next ex-husband but instead made the best of friends with the locals.

Best Place To Grab A Whisky?

Ben Nevis Bar

Named after Scotland’s largest mountain, Ben Nevis Bar is a hole in the wall that’s serious about whisky. There’s a cozy, intimate vibe. It remains solid with regulars and has real authenticity. This whisky bar is located in Finnieston Glasgow, one of the trendiest areas of the city. I highly recommend doing a flight of whiskies here. Get the Holy Smokes flight if you are into smokey whisky.

The Pot Still

The Pot Still doesn’t have a lavish interior, but you will get to know all the friendly characters of Glasgow. This bar screams local and has an array of whiskies to choose from including a little something from every style and region of the world. I didn’t even know that this many whiskies existed … welcome to Scotland!

Best Place To Take In The Culture Of Glasgow?

Glasgow Necropolis Graveyard

Glasgow Necropolis graveyard might sound like a “yikes!” choice but it’s here because you get an excellent view of the east end of the city. This 37-acre cemetery is out of this world. If you are in need of a fresh post for Instagram then you must check out the Necropolis. They offer guided tours or you can stroll on your own. Come here, unless you are afraid of ghosts, then it’s a hard pass.

Queen’s Park

Queens Park in Glasgow is a huge outdoor space where cultural events take place, locals picnic and walk their dogs, or hang out with friends! It’s a thriving green space loved by locals and offers one of the best views of the city. The park was dedicated to the memory of Mary, Queen of Scots. If you go on the weekend, I suggest grabbing a coffee while enjoying a relatively short walk (accessible for all) to the top of the park to take in a dramatic view of the city. If it is a clear day, the views are out of this world.

Best Place For A Great Hike Or Way To Take In The City?

Kelvin Walkway/Kelvingrove Museum

Kelvin Walkway is a great hike to take in the nature of Glasgow. If you are like me and love nature within a city then you must hike this gorgeous trail. Bring hiking boots as it can get quite muddy. There is a fantastic spot for bird watching and sightseeing. There is so much greenery inside this old industrial city.

The Kelvingrove Museum in Glasgow’s leafy West-End recently completed a multi-million-pound renovation. This attraction is free and filled with historical artifacts, modern art, and natural history. You get there by walking through Kelvin Park, which is the home to Glasgow University. One look at the university and you will immediately be transported into Hogwarts.

Favorite Thing To Do In Glasgow?

Walking Around/Bar Hopping

Glasgow gets the nickname “Dear Green Place” because it has so many public parks, so you will never run out of nature within a city. It is not a concrete jungle. I love to walk around the entire city and bar hop around Merchant City to catch avant-garde drag shows. The winner of ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race UK’, Lawrence Chaney, performs all over town and you do not want to miss her.

What Is Your Fondest Memory Of Visiting Glasgow?

Staying At Kimpton Blythswood Square Hotel

A city can make it or break it depending on where you stay. If you want chic luxury, you must stay at the Kimpton Blythswood Square Hotel in central Glasgow. It is a 15-minute walk to Merchant City, the gayborhood of Glasgow. This hotel has a state-of-the-art spa, one of the most comfortable beds I have ever slept in, and a brand new farm-to-fabulous restaurant called Bo and Birdy. Definitely have dinner here (get the risotto) and make sure to order it with their signature drink ‘The Bo and Birdy’ which has a peacock feather in it!

One Thing Everyone Visiting Glasgow Must Experience?

Category Is Books… And Whisky

Whisky, but also, Category Is Books, which is one of three Queer bookstores in the U.K. shining the light on ending transphobia, genderphobia, biphobia, and homophobia. How? By providing a safe space for Queer people and being visible. This independent bookstore attracts locals and tourists alike and is located on the south side of Glasgow. A fun perk is that they also offer tea inside. During the pandemic, the ferocious owners of this bookstore would do drop-offs so that folks could continue to learn.

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Ava Max Creates An Abundant New World Out Of Teardrops In Her Lush ‘Everytime I Cry’ Video

Earlier in June, global pop star Ava Max released her bumping single “Everytime I Cry.” Now, there’s a cinematic new video to go with the song, featuring Max building a lush landscape out of a desert using only her tears. As the water level rises, it’d be easy to draw visual comparisons to TLC’s classic “Waterfalls” visual. And while I’m making Y2K video comparisons, Max’s dancing and overall reliance on CGI and green screen nature landscapes definitely brings to mind Shakira’s “Whenever, Wherever,” too.

In a statement about the clip, Max said, “This video demonstrates power within vulnerability. I wanted to tell a story that has the viewer watch me turn weakness into strength.” As previously noted, Max, who released her debut album Heaven & Hell in 2019, is still working on her next era of music. In June, she tweeted, “This is not the next era quite yet […] it’s a continuation of heaven and hell.”

As Uproxx’s Carolyn Droke pointed out, Max is still getting great momentum out of her Heaven & Hell era; the project cemented her stardom, arriving after two of her songs had gone No. 1 in several countries. Her album’s track “Kings & Queens” boasts over one billion streams, making her the one of the most-streamed female artists in the world.

Watch “Everytime I Cry” above. Heaven & Hell is out now via Atlantic. Get it here.

Ava Max is a Warner Music artist. Uproxx is an independent subsidiary of Warner Music Group.

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‘Loki’ Director Reveals Why We Were Robbed Of Seeing Owen Wilson On A Jet Ski

As the Loki finale approached, there was one thing fans of the show wanted more than anything: Owen Wilson’s Mobius on a jet ski. The character’s inexplicable love for the aquatic vehicle that effortlessly merges form and function popped up in the second episode, and by Episode 3, we learned that all TVA employees are Variants, which means at some point in time, Mobius might have had a sweet jet ski and possibly even a family, which are kinda neat, too.

However, when the Loki finale wrapped up its dramatic introduction of Kang and the start of a Multiversal War, Mobius and his jet ski were nowhere to be found. In fact, by the episode’s end, he doesn’t even recognize Loki, so what gives? Well, according to a new interview with director Kate Herron, there was a plan to show Mobius’ backstory, but those plans were put on hold so that whoever takes the reins on Season 2 (Herron is not returning) can fill in the blanks as needed. Via Comic Book:

“So I think for us, we had spoken about, I think there were a few drafts of the script where you did see like a family or you did see a life, but I think we all kind of decided we don’t know what it is yet. And I think that’s exciting, right? Because it gives more road to travel with him. And I think it’s more painful when he is going to be deleted, him saying, ‘What if I had a family’ Because, maybe he did or maybe he didn’t, I don’t know where the writers will take his character,” Herron explained.

It looks like Loki fans will have to wait until Season 2 to see Mobius on a jet ski, and if that doesn’t happen, we riot in the streets. Your move, Marvel.

(Via Comic Book)

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Songs From ‘Sonic’ And Other Video Games Highlighted The 2020 Olympics Opening Ceremony

During today’s 2020 Summer Olympics Opening Ceremony, a lot of recognizable music popped up, including a rendition of John Lennon’s “Imagine” performed by John Legend, Keith Urban, and some other singers from around the world. Video game fans were also pleased to hear that orchestral renditions of songs from classic Japanese games soundtracked the parade of countries.

As The Associated Press notes, the medley kicked off with “Roto’s Theme” from the Dragon Quest series. Other franchises that were represented include Sonic The Hedgehog, Final Fantasy, Tales, Monster Hunter, Kingdom Hearts, Chrono Trigger, Ace Combat, Phantasy Star, Gradius, NieR, Saga, Soul Caliber, and eFootball (formerly but more commonly known as Winning Eleven and Pro Evolution Soccer).

Video game fans know that Sonic’s connection to the Olympics runs deep, as he and Nintendo mascot Mario have appeared in a bunch of Olympics video games together over the years. The series started with 2007’s Mario & Sonic At The Olympic Games, and the latest installment is 2019’s Mario & Sonic At The Olympic Games Tokyo 2020.

Speaking of Mario, songs from his games were nowhere to be found during the medley, even though the plumber played a major role in Japan’s presentation at the 2016 Olympics Closing Ceremony.

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Leon Bridges Busts A Move In A Slick New Video For ‘Steam’

Leon Bridges‘ third album Gold-Diggers Sound is out today, and to celebrate, the Texas soul luminary is releasing a video for album single “Steam.” On top of being a silky-smooth song, “Steam” has Bridges in full-on groove mode. Over the course of several scenes, Bridges moves in synchronized steps with friends (and occasionally solo), while other scenes are more overtly sedate, with the camera moving through clusters of trees in twilight.

Following his last album, 2018’s Good Thing, Gold-Diggers Sound has a few singles already out, including “Sweeter,” “Motorbike,” and “Why Don’t You Touch Me.” Prior to sharing “Motorbike,” Leon gave some insight about Gold-Diggers Sound. “I created this world with @rickyreed and @natemercereau at Gold Diggers Studio in East Hollywood over the course of two very long years,” Bridges wrote in an Instagram post. “With immense joy, greater purpose, and sometimes doubt, I labored over these eleven songs, but the record truly came together when I immersed myself in everything @golddiggersla making it my home, my escape, and the center of my creative world.”

The singer added, “The record features some remarkably talented friends, longtime collaborators and I believe it’s my most personal album yet.” Gold-Diggers Sound is highlighted by guest appearances from Terrace Martin, Ink, and Robert Glasper.

Press play on the video for “Steam” above.

Gold-Diggers Sound is out now via Columbia Records. Get it here.

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Tom Hanks And The Black Keys Debuted The New Cleveland Baseball Team Name

The Cleveland Baseball Team has a new name, and it brought out some big names to debut it.

In unveiling ‘Guardians’ as its replacement for ‘Indians,’ Cleveland had Tom Hanks and The Black Keys provide the voiceover and the music in the reveal. For those that are unaware (probably a lot of people) Hanks got his acting career started in Cleveland and The Black Keys are from Akron, roughly a 45-minute drive from Cleveland and home to Cleveland’s Double-A affiliate, the Rubber Ducks. Patrick Carney, the bands’ drummer, also filled in at this year’s home opener when drummer John Adams missed the game due to heart surgery. Adams has been drumming while Cleveland is at bat for every home game dating back to 1973.

The team also unveiled its new logos and wordmarks for the name change. The changes are not drastic with the color scheme staying the same and some slightly more edge on the lettering than previous models. Overall, it’s a pretty simple change from what they previously had.

The Guardians name comes from the ‘Guardians of Traffic’ statues on the Hope Memorial Bridge in downtown Cleveland that were built during the Great Depression. The statues are visible from the stadium and located only a short walk away.

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Our Drinks Writers Shout Out The Blanco Tequila Bottles You Need Stocked At All Times

Tomorrow is National Tequila Day which matters to… *checks notes* absolutely no one. Come on, this is tequila we’re talking about, do we really need to have a special day to celebrate the spirit? Is one day even enough? No! Every day is a good time for tequila, and you know what, we’re just going to say it — so is every hour.

Tequila is booking right now, people are drinking it more than ever whether they’re slow sipping a fine bottle or mixing up the un-aged stuff for a classic cocktail at home. Even celebrities can’t seem to help themselves from launching their own brands, no doubt inspired by Clooney’s billion-dollar Casamigos’ Diageo partnership.

As such, there are a bunch of great tequilas out there (yes, even the celebrity stuff), but which bottles actually deserve the shelf space at your home bar? To help outfit your collection with the best of the best, our drinks writers shouted out some of their favorite bottles and since it’s National Tequila Day, we decided to give the shine to unaged Blanco tequilas this time around, this way you can enjoy Tequila in its purest form.

Let’s dive in!

LALO Tequila Blanco (Dane Rivera)

LALO

ABV: 40%

Average Price: $48

The Tequila:

I came across LALO quite recently, but in our brief time together I’ve already grown really fond of this simple and pure agave-forward tequila. Made from blue Weber agave harvested in the highlands of Jalisco and produced using a traditional cooking process, LALO hails from the Grupo Tequilero Mexico distillery where Champagne yeast is included in this tequila’s open-air fermentation process.

Tasting Notes:

Bright notes of zesty citrus on the nose with a buttery character that is joined by hints of cooked agave, crushed black peppercorn, and caramel with a rounded fruity finish that settles nicely.

Bottom Line:

This earthy tequila will serve as the perfect base for a spicy cocktail or something that utilizes cinnamon.

El Tesoro Blanco (Dane Rivera)

El Tesoro

ABV: 40%

Average Price: $46

The Tequila:

El Tesoro Blanco is a multi-award-winning expression out of the legendary La Alteña distillery in Jalisco. You can’t go wrong with this un-aged tequila and one bottle will be enough to convince you to always have it stocked at the home bar. Don’t let this spirit’s distinct initial burn dissuade you, you’ll find the more you get acquainted with this expression, the more you’ll start to realize the depth of flavor it provides, offering a versatile and expressive character that works brilliantly as a base for your cocktails and will actually complement those expensive mixers you spent extra money on.

Tasting Notes:

Sweet and floral on the nose with a quality that draws you in. On the palate, you’ll find notes of tart apple skin, with a fruity body reminiscent of sweet peach. A comforting honey finish settles in and lingers nicely between sips. Pair this with some fresh lime juice, agave syrup, and Cointreau shaken with rocks and you’ve got a perfect simple summer margarita.

Bottom Line:

An initial burn makes way for tequila with a floral and fruity character and a sweet honey close. Perfect for cocktails or straight as a toast with friends.

PaQui Silver (Dane Rivera)

PaQui

ABV: 40%

Average Price: $52

The Tequila:

PaQui’s Silver tequila is made using 100 percent Blue Weber Agave harvested from the highlands of Jalisco. The piñas are cooked in a high-pressure Autoclave, which helps to release pronounced flavors and aromas and then crushed using roller mill extraction. The result is then fermented for nearly a week in stainless steel fermentation tanks along with fresh wine yeast.

Tasting Notes:

PaQui is highly chemical on the nose, I don’t love that, but it opens up in the glass presenting notes of earthy agave and asparagus. On the palate, you’ll get buttery notes and a silky mouthfeel with the subtlest lift of refreshing mint on the backend.

Bottom Line:

This one begs to be mixed. Grab a Grapefruit Jarritos — or club soda if you’re feeling boring — and mix them over ice with a mint garnish and a fresh squeeze of lime.

Hiatus Blanco

Hiatus

ABV: 40%

Average Price: $49

The Tequila:

Hailing from the crowded La Cofradia distillery, Hiatus is made using agave harvested from the Tequila valley at peak maturity, cooked in brick ovens, and extracted using a screw mill method. This tequila presents itself brilliantly, with a glittering silver glow and a smooth mouthfeel.

Tasting Notes:

Zesty notes of citrus rind on the nose with a sort of earthy cacti quality. On the palate, that earthiness continues with the flavors of crushed peppercorn and a surprisingly tropical fruity finish that feels like it comes out of nowhere.

The Bottom Line

For the price, one of the smoothest blanco tequilas you’ll ever drink. It’s so easy to drink you’ll be surprised it didn’t mellow out in a barrel. Probably the only option on this list we’d advise sipping straight.

Casa Noble Blanco (Christopher Osburn)

Casa Noble

ABV: 40%

Average Price: $40

The Tequila:

In recent years, Casa Noble has begun racking up awards while gaining a devoted following in the tequila world. Its blanco isn’t your average un-aged value tequila. Made with 100 percent estate-grown Blue Weber agave, it’s distilled three times to guarantee a clean, crisp, sweet flavor perfect for mixing into your favorite cocktail.

Tasting Notes:

On the nose, you’ll find aromas of wildflowers, ripe agave, and vanilla. The palate is swirling with vanilla beans, vegetal sweetness, a nice herbal quality, and a gentle nutty flavor that guarantees it works just as well as a slow sipper as a cocktail base.

Bottom Line:

Not only is this a sweet, vanilla-filled blanco perfect for your favorite margarita recipe, but the agave is grown using sustainable practices to guarantee there will be enough for tequila drinkers to enjoy for generations to come.

Tres Agave Blanco (Christopher Osburn)

Tres Agave

ABV: 40%

Average Price: $30

The Tequila:

This award-winning blanco tequila is made using organically-grown Blue Weber agave that’s slow-roasted before being used in the distillation process. Instead of spending a moment in a barrel, it’s immediately put into a bottle. It’s organic, fresh, sweet, and filled with more flavors than you expect from an un-aged tequila.

Tasting Notes:

The aromas of vanilla, ripe agave, citrus zest, nutty sweetness, and slight fruit are prevalent. Sipping it reveals herbal, mint-like qualities, crisp apples, almonds, and agave nectar. The finish is warming, mellow, and surprisingly complex for a blanco tequila.

Bottom Line:

This organic blanco tequila is filled with ripe fruit and nutty flavors that make it just as suitable as a slow sipper as a mixer into a paloma or any of your other go-to tequila drinks.

Fortaleza Blanco (Christopher Osburn)

Fortaleza

ABV: 40%

Average Price: $50

The Tequila:

This renowned blanco tequila is made with 100 percent stone crushed Blue Weber Agave grown in the Tequila Valley in Jalisco, Mexico. It’s double-stilled in copper pots before being added to hand-blown bottles. It’s smooth, clear, and filled with citrus and agave notes that make it well worth its slightly higher price tag.

Tasting Notes:

The nose is filled with scents of ripe agave, citrus rinds, vanilla beans, and just a hint of spicy pepper. The palate is highlighted by cooked agave, vanilla, ripe grapefruit, lemon zest, and a slight herbal quality. It all ends with a long, warming finish of sweet agave and slight spice.

Bottom Line:

This complex, swoon-worthy tequila doesn’t taste like a blanco. Its multi-dimensional flavor profile is leaps and bounds above the bottom shelf clear tequilas you once drank out of plastic handles.

Casamigos Blanco (Zach Johnston)

Diageo

ABV: 40%

Average Price: $50

The Tequila:

George Clooney, Rande Gerber, and Mike Meldman created one of the fastest-growing (and most profitable) brands in all of alcohol with Casamigos. Part of that is the allure of Clooney taking a central role in the advertising. But the biggest part of the brand’s success is the juice in the bottle, which is originally from the famed Productos Finos de Agave distillery in Jesus Maria in Jalisco. For this expression, the tequila is masterfully made and then left to rest in stainless steel tanks for two months before bottling.

Tasting Notes:

This is complex on the nose with a hint of mint supporting light touches of roasted agave with a hint of dry sweet grass and a squirt of sweet citrus oils. The palate is, for lack of a better term, rich with fresh green herbs, a light savory edge, and a moment minty gum. The end sweetens from that minty taste back towards the sweet and roasted agave with an almost creamy texture as the taste leaves you ever-so warmed.

Bottom Line:

Celebrity tequila discussions aside, this bottle rules. It’s a great cocktail mixer, highball base, or shooter. In fact, you can drink this on the rocks with a twist of lime and you’ll be perfectly happy, especially on a hot summer day.


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