Kirkland Añejo Tequila Review

Last Updated on: 16th May 2024, 12:44 pm

Discover everything about Costco's Kirkland Añejo Tequila in this in-depth review that answers all your related questions.

Reviewed by: J Highland

Kirkland Añejo Tequila: Sweetest Option for Budget-Minded Añejo Enthusiasts

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐

Tequila expert Neil Coleman highlights Kirkland Añejo Tequila as the best budget option within the Añejo category, acknowledging its sweetness might not be for everyone. Here's a breakdown of its key characteristics:

Strengths:

• Unbeatable Value: This Añejo tequila is positioned as the most affordable and best value option within the Añejo category.
• Sweet and Smooth: The taste is described as very smooth and approachable, with a dominant sweetness.
• Great for Beginners and Sweet Sippers: This Añejo might be a good entry point for those new to Añejo tequilas or those who enjoy sweeter profiles.
• Versatile for Cocktails: The sweetness might also make it suitable for use in cocktails.

Drawbacks:

• Very Sweet: The sweetness is described as overpowering and potentially artificial-tasting.
• Not the Most Authentic Añejo: The sweetness might mask the agave flavor typical of Añejo tequilas.

Overall, Kirkland Añejo Tequila is positioned as the best option for budget-conscious consumers seeking a smooth and sweet Añejo tequila. The affordability is a major advantage, but be aware that the sweetness might be overpowering and potentially due to added sweeteners. Those who prefer a more classic Añejo profile with a stronger agave presence might find other options more suitable.

Related: Best-Value Añejos

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Caramel, vanilla, oak
• Palate: Caramel, oak, vanilla, pepper
• Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
• How to drink: Cocktails
• Similar to: Kirkland Silver Tequila

The nose presents notes of caramel and vanilla, accompanied by subtle hints of oak and the distinct essence of blue agave.

Upon tasting, the initial flavor is characterized by upfront caramel notes, followed by the presence of oak, vanilla, and the distinctive taste of agave, all rounded off with a touch of black pepper.

The finish is long and sweet, with minimal warmth.

It leaves a lingering aftertaste of agave and butterscotch, adding to the overall richness of the experience.

In terms of flavor profile, it can be likened to a young bourbon with a Tequila finish, offering a unique combination of characteristics from both spirits.

How did I review Kirkland Añejo Tequila?

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

Alternatives

• If the Costco shopping experience isn't for you, consider El Mayor Añejo and Espolon Añejo as quality alternatives to Kirkland Tequila. These Añejos offer bourbon-like notes at a slightly higher price but provide excellent value and are ideal for bourbon lovers venturing into agave spirits.

How to Drink

• Kirkland Añejo is versatile and can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, as shots, or in cocktails. It excels in sweet Old Fashioneds and other bourbon-based cocktails, offering a rich flavor profile.

Is It Good for Margaritas?

• While Blanco Tequilas are typically preferred for Margaritas, Kirkland Añejo can be used for a sweeter twist on this classic cocktail. However, it will alter the drink's appearance to an amber hue, which might be unconventional for some.

Is It Good for Shots?

• Although Añejo Tequilas like Kirkland Añejo are often savored neat or on the rocks, they can also be enjoyed as shots for a unique tasting experience, differing from the traditional use of Blanco Tequilas for shooters.

Who Makes It?

• Kirkland Añejo is produced at the Santa Lucia Distillery in Jalisco, Mexico, which is known for crafting multiple Tequila brands.

Price

• Kirkland Añejo is priced competitively at around $19 for a 750ml bottle, offering a good quality option at this price point.

Alcohol Content

• This Tequila is bottled at the standard 80 proof (40% ABV), typical for the category.

Does It Expire?

• Tequila, including Kirkland Añejo, does not expire if stored properly. However, once opened, it's best to consume it before the bottle is 25% full to avoid any potential alteration in taste.

Does It Have Sugar?

• Kirkland Añejo, like all agave spirits, is low in sugar, making it suitable for those on strict diets. Care should be taken with mixers to maintain this low-sugar benefit.

Does It Have Carbs? Is It Keto-Friendly?

• Being carb-free, Kirkland Añejo fits into a keto diet when consumed in moderation due to its alcohol content.

Kirkland Añejo Tequila: Specs

• Type: Añejo
• Proof: 80
• 100% Agave: Yes
• ABV: 40%
• Double-distilled: Yes
• Aging length: Unspecified
• Taste Profile: Very sweet, not warm, not smoky