Last Updated on: 23rd January 2024, 02:00 pm
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.
Dive in to find out if Herradura truly stands out in quality and taste as a good Tequila.
Written by: J Highland
Is Herradura a Good Tequila Brand?
“Herradura shines as a notable brand in the world of commercial Tequila, signifying its place among the finest massively-produced Tequila labels.”, mentions Tequila expert Neil Coleman.
While you can discover even more exceptional options from small-batch brands, Herradura and Don Julio, Patron, and Casamigos hold a strong position among significant producers, creating solid offerings.
Herradura maintains a commendable standard with every release, building a reputation as a reliable and trustworthy Tequila brand.
Which is the Best Herradura Tequila?
Herradura Seleccion Suprema is widely regarded as the finest offering from Herradura and one of the top Extra Añejo Tequilas available.
It delivers an incredibly delicious and satisfying experience, with a depth of flavor and the perfect warmth expected from a top-quality Tequila.
From the enticing aroma to the lingering finish, every aspect of Seleccion Suprema showcases the craftsmanship and excellence of this premium Tequila.
Herradura Tequila Rankings
This is a detailed review of every one of Herradura’s releases:
Silver
Herradura Silver presents a subtly aromatic nose, featuring hints of olive brine, agave, and a touch of black pepper, accompanied by an earthy undertone.
On the palate, it delivers a warming sensation transitioning into oak flavor, complemented by citrus notes and distinct earthiness.
The finish is long-lasting and pleasantly warm, with an earthy character.
Once the top Blanco Tequila, Herradura Blanco maintains its appeal, offering a gratifying blend of sweetness, classic Tequila flavors, and subtle warmth and pepperiness.
Reposado
Herradura Reposado, created in 1974, undergoes an 11-month aging process in oak barrels.
It offers a pleasing blend of sweetness and smoothness with a balanced and flavorful profile.
It features light, grassy notes alongside fruitiness and sweetness, with hints of citrus and vanilla.
The finish is moderately long, with rich oak and vanilla flavors.
While there’s a slight alcohol burn and peppery notes, they’re not overwhelming.
Herradura Reposado is a great choice for sipping, especially for those who enjoy a spirited kick and oak presence.
Colección de la Casa Port Cask
Herradura Double Barrel Reposado undergoes a unique aging process, starting with 11 months in medium-char American white oak casks and two more months in hand-picked port casks from Portugal’s Douro Valley.
The nose carries hints of heat, followed by notes of agave, caramel, and baking spice.
On the palate, it offers a warming sensation with agave, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla, and subtle black pepper. T
he finish is long and satisfying, leaving a warm feeling.
If you find it, savor its unique character.
Añejo
Herradura Añejo is aged for 25 months in American oak barrels, resulting in a prominent oak presence that sometimes overshadows the delicate agave flavor.
It offers a smooth and sweet experience with a satisfying warmth and bite on the finish.
While enjoyable neat or on the rocks, its strong oak character and higher price make it less suitable for cocktails like Margaritas.
Herradura Añejo is for those who prefer pronounced oak, warmth, and a touch of spice in their Tequila.
Legend
Legend has a nose of burnt caramel, vanilla, agave, and toasted oak reminiscent of Woodford Reserve.
The palate could benefit from a fuller body but still offers a pleasing feel.
The flavors of vanilla, caramel sweetness, bell pepper spice, oak char, and a subtle mineral note unfold.
The finish is subtly warm with hints of oak char bitterness, cinnamon, and caramel.
Herradura Legend intrigues with its bourbon-like charred oak notes and delivers a smooth, well-balanced experience.
It’s a smooth and flavorful choice for Herradura Tequila enthusiasts, offering a unique twist on agave spirits.
Ultra
Herradura Ultra is incredibly smooth and sweet, marked by strong vanilla notes.
However, it’s artificially sweetened with agave syrup, making it significantly sweeter than traditional Tequila.
While enjoyable for those who prefer smooth and sweet spirits, it deviates from the typical Tequila flavor profile and may be considered more of a specialty alcohol despite its agave base.
It’s a blend of Herradura Añejo and Herradura Seleccion Suprema, filtered through charcoal for a clear, smooth Cristalino Tequila.
Seleccion Suprema
Herradura Seleccion Suprema has a nose resembling whiskey, with initial caramel, vanilla, and oak aromas followed by subtle roasted agave notes.
It offers a rich, viscous mouthfeel with a prominent vanilla and oak flavor profile, complemented by hints of leather, tobacco, agave, cherry, and dried fruit.
The finish is long-lasting, featuring caramel, subtle oak spice, and minimal heat.
While it’s a top Extra Añejo Tequila appreciated by bourbon enthusiasts, its price, ranging from $350 to $400, may deter some.
Frequently Asked Questions
Pricing Guide
- Silver: $43
- Reposado: $46
- Reposado Colección de la Casa: $100
- Añejo: $52
- Legend: $145
- Ultra: $63
- Selección Suprema: $370
Is Herradura a Sipping Tequila?
- Herradura offers a range suitable for different drinking preferences:
- Silver: Best in cocktails, like margaritas.
- Reposado: Enjoyable on the rocks or in cocktails.
- Añejo: Ideal rocks or neat.
- Ultra: Sipped straight or on the rocks.
- Selección Suprema: Best enjoyed straight or on the rocks, preferably with whiskey rocks.
How is it Made?
- Herradura employs traditional methods, using clay ovens to cook agave hearts, unlike modern distilleries that use autoclaves.
- This old-school approach contributes to richer flavors in the Tequila.
Is Herradura 100% Agave?
- Yes, Herradura is committed to producing only 100% agave Tequilas.
- This means they are crafted solely from fermented agave juice, without added sugars or fillers, ensuring a purer Tequila experience.
Gluten-Free?
- Yes, as an agave spirit, Herradura Tequila is gluten-free and has zero carbs, making it a good choice for calorie-conscious consumers.
Ownership
- In 2007, Herradura was acquired by Brown-Forman for $776 million USD.
- Brown-Forman, also the owner of Jack Daniel’s whiskey, is not a Mexican company.
- Among major tequila producers, Jose Cuervo remains Mexican-owned.
What Does “Herradura” Mean?
- “Herradura” translates to “horseshoe” in Spanish.