Last Updated on: 14th May 2024, 12:55 am
J Highland
J Highland is a certified sommelier with 30 years in the liquor industry, owning a pub, a liquor store, and moonlighting as an agave spirits distiller.
Discover everything about Gran Centenario Añejo in this in-depth review that answers all your related questions!
Written by: J Highland
Gran Centenario Añejo: Reliable Sipping at a Great Price
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
Tequila connoisseur Neil Coleman recommends Gran Centenario Añejo for those seeking a dependable and affordable Añejo experience.
Strengths:
- Classic Añejo Profile: Delivers the expected flavors and smoothness characteristic of a good Añejo tequila, without any unpleasant surprises.
- Great Value: Stands out as a budget-friendly option within Gran Centenario's Añejos, offering a better balance for sipping compared to the pricier Leyenda Extra Añejo, which can be overpowering with oak.
- Easy Drinking: This Añejo boasts a pleasant taste and smooth texture, free of any harsh aftertaste.
Weaknesses:
- Simpler Flavor Profile: While enjoyable, Gran Centenario Añejo may lack the complex flavor profiles found in higher-end Añejos.
Verdict:
Gran Centenario Añejo is a solid choice for those who prioritize a reliable and enjoyable Añejo experience at a reasonable price. It offers the classic Añejo characteristics without breaking the bank. If you're looking for a no-frills Añejo to sip and savor, Gran Centenario Añejo delivers a consistent and satisfying taste. However, if complexity is your top priority, you might want to explore higher-end options.
Related: Best Value Añejo Tequilas
Tasting Notes
- Nose: Soft caramel, vanilla
- Palate: Vanilla, leathery sweetness, oak, smoke
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Rocks
- Similar to: Leyenda Extra Añejo
The nose of Gran Centenario Añejo is rich in bourbon notes, with a blend of oak, caramel, vanilla, and roasted agave scents.
On the palate, the taste starts with the flavors of blue agave and apple juice, followed by oak, vanilla, and caramel, with just a hint of oak spice.
The finish is decent in length, with little to no heat, rich in caramel notes, and a slightly bitter oak flavor that is not unpleasant.
How did I review Gran Centenario Añejo?
I run a pub and a liquor store, granting me extensive access to various spirits, in addition, I moonlight as an agave spirits distiller.
My evaluations include my insights and feedback from customers and patrons and Tequila expert opinions from Neil Coleman who has been for decades in the liquor business.
I also corroborate my views with online research to ensure accuracy.
Our ratings are determined primarily by four key factors: aroma, taste, finish, and value for money. While we do consider packaging, it is of lesser importance to us, as we prioritize the quality of the liquid inside over the aesthetics of the bottle.
⭐ - Poor, ⭐⭐ - Average, ⭐⭐⭐ - Good, ⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Very Good, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Excellent.
Frequently Asked Questions
Best Way to Enjoy
- Ice Recommendation: Best enjoyed over large ice cubes to minimize dilution.
- Avoid Adding Water: Water does not enhance Tequila's taste as it might with Bourbon or Scotch.
- Mixed Drinks: Ideal for experimenting with cocktails, such as a Tequila Old Fashioned, due to its reasonable price.
Suitability for Margaritas
- Añejo in Margaritas: Adds an oak note and changes the color of the drink, offering a different experience than Blanco Tequila.
- Flavor Profile: Suitable for Margaritas, albeit with a unique twist.
Appropriateness for Shots
- Recommendation: Blanco Tequila is preferred for shots due to its clean, crisp taste.
Alternatives
- Comparable Tequilas: 1800 Añejo and Jose Cuervo Tradicional Añejo, with distinct tastes due to different production methods.
- Whiskey Lovers' Choice: Espolon Añejo, aged in Wild Turkey barrels, is a good alternative for whiskey enthusiasts exploring Tequila.
Manufacturer Information
- Historical Brand: Founded in 1857, Gran Centenario is among Mexico's oldest distilleries.
- Ownership: Owned by Jose Cuervo, the largest Tequila distiller globally.
Bottle Pricing
- Approximate Cost in USD: Total Wine - $26, Old Town Tequila - $30.
Alcohol Content
- Proof and ABV: 80 proof (40% ABV) in the U.S., 76 proof (38% ABV) in Mexico, with dilution for tax reasons.
Aging Process
- Duration: Aged for up to 36 months in French Limousin oak barrels, a practice common in Cognac aging.
Shelf Life and Storage
- Longevity: Tequila does not expire but can alter in taste once opened, especially when the bottle is about 25% full.
Freezing Characteristics
- Storage in Freezer: Common but may dull flavors and aromas. Serving at room temperature is recommended to fully appreciate its complexity.
Sugar and Carb Content
- Dietary Consideration: Low in sugar and carb-free, making it suitable for strict diets and keto-friendly.
Use of Additives
- Additive Disclosure: No guarantees on the absence of additives, with a potential for infusion below the 1% disclosure threshold.
Origin of Production
- Location: Crafted in Tequila, Jalisco, Mexico, at La Riojeña distillery, owned by Jose Cuervo.
Product Specifications
- Type: Añejo
- Proof: 80
- 100% Agave: Yes
- ABV: 40%
- Distillation: Double-distilled
- Aging Length: 36 months
- Flavor Profile: Sweet, not warm or smoky
- Suitability: Good for beginners and for cocktails
- Calories per Shot: 98
- Gluten-Free: Yes
- Keto-Friendly: Yes