Last Updated on: 20th May 2024, 01:36 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.
Explore the differences between Avion Reserva 44 and Don Julio 1942 in this detailed analysis, and determine the preferable Tequila for you.
Quick Note: Running a pub and liquor store provides me ample access to various spirits, in addition, I moonlight as an agave spirits distiller. I assess them using customer feedback, expert opinions and online research.
Written by: J Highland
Avion Reserva 44 vs Don Julio 1942: Comparison
Avion Reserva 44: A premium tequila that balances the boldness of agave with the subtlety of vanilla, caramel, and oak. Its 44-month aging process ensures a smooth, complex flavor, perfect for sipping neat or on the rocks. Renowned for retaining a vibrant agave presence alongside a rich array of complementary flavors, Avion Reserva 44 stands as a top-tier choice for those seeking a refined tequila experience.
Don Julio 1942: Celebrated for its smooth blend of vanilla, caramel, and agave, Don Julio 1942 offers a luxurious sipping experience. Aged for over two and a half years, this tequila combines the warmth of bourbon with the distinct character of agave. Ideal for enjoying neat or slightly chilled, it represents the pinnacle of Don Julio's craftsmanship, appealing to both tequila aficionados and newcomers alike.
Verdict: Avion Reserva 44 and Don Julio 1942 each provide a unique, high-quality tequila experience. Avion Reserva 44 is celebrated for its agave-forward profile and complex flavor notes, making it a favorite among those who appreciate the subtleties of aged tequila. Don Julio 1942, with its rich, smooth taste and deep heritage, offers a sense of luxury and tradition. Both are excellent choices for special occasions or as distinguished additions to any tequila collection, states tequila expert Neil Coleman.
Related: Don Julio 1942 Best Alternatives
Avion Reserva 44: A Delightful Agave Experience

- Nose: Agave, earth, grass, caramel
- Palate: Caramel, agave, vanilla, lime, oak
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Rocks
- Similar to: Clase Azul Reposado
Agave Takes Center Stage: Avion Reserva 44 opens with a noticeable aroma of fresh agave, alongside hints of grass and butterscotch.
Smooth and Balanced: The first sip reveals a velvety texture, followed by an initial sweetness that leads into a well-rounded mix of flavors.
Rich and Complex: Expect prominent notes of agave, complemented by vanilla, hints of lime, and a touch of caramel. The oak influence is subtle yet adds depth.
Long and Warming Finish: The finish lingers pleasantly, leaving a warm sensation without any harsh aftertaste.
Distinct Agave, Enhanced Experience: Despite its 44-month aging, Avion Reserva 44 retains its signature agave flavor. This is further complemented by subtle notes of vanilla and butterscotch, making it enjoyable to drink.
Enjoy It Your Way: Whether you prefer it neat or on the rocks, Avion Reserva 44 shines as a premium sipping experience.
Top-Tier Choice: Offering excellent value for its Extra Añejo status, Avion Reserva 44 is the pinnacle of the Avion Tequila brand and comes highly recommended.
Extra Añejo Secrets: This tequila is aged for 44 months in small barrels that are rotated daily for even contact with the oak, contributing to its consistent flavor.
Pernod Ricard Connection: Avion is owned by Pernod Ricard, the company behind Chivas Regal and Glenlivet, among other well-known brands.
Don Julio 1942: A Smooth Tequila Experience

- Nose: Vanilla, caramel, agave, oak
- Palate: Agave, vanilla, citrus, chocolate
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Neat, rocks
- Similar to: Don Julio 70
Warm Aroma: Don Julio 1942 entices with inviting scents of vanilla, caramel, roasted agave, and a hint of oak.
Balanced Palate: The taste is smooth and well-rounded, offering a velvety texture and rich caramel flavors. A subtle smokiness adds a touch of tequila character, while a hint of chocolate complements the overall profile.
Sipping Pleasure: Whether you're a tequila enthusiast or a bourbon fan, 1942 is a great choice. It provides a smooth and enjoyable sipping experience, free from any harsh alcohol burn.
Chill for Enhancement: For an extra touch of refreshment, consider chilling 1942 slightly using large ice cubes or whiskey stones. This helps preserve its flavor without significant dilution.
Enjoy it Neat: While 1942 can be mixed in cocktails, its complex flavors are best appreciated neat, allowing you to fully savor its unique characteristics.
Añejo Heritage: Don Julio 1942 celebrates the year 1942, when Don Julio Gonzalez began his tequila-making journey at the young age of 17. This Añejo tequila is aged for 30 months in bourbon barrels, contributing to its distinct flavor profile.
Did you know? Don Julio, along with other iconic brands like Johnnie Walker, is owned by the London-based beverage giant Diageo.
What's the difference between Avion Reserva 44 and Don Julio 1942?
There is a significant difference to consider between these Tequilas before making a purchase:
Reserva 44 falls under the Extra Añejo Tequila category, meaning it has been aged for over three years in oak barrels.
Don Julio 1942, on the other hand, is classified as an Añejo Tequila, which requires aging for one to three years in oak barrels before bottling.
Hence, these Tequilas belong to distinct categories based on their aging duration.
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Tequila | Price |
| Avion Reserva 44 | $140 |
| Don Julio 1942 | $187 |
Specs comparison
| Characteristics | Avion 44 Reserva | Don Julio 1942 |
| Type of Tequila | Extra Añejo | Añejo |
| Aging length in months | 44 | 30 |
| 100% agave | Yes | Yes |
| Grinding method | Roller mill | Roller mill |
| Stainless steel tank fermentation | Yes | No |
| Wood tank fermentation | No | Yes |
| Cooking method | Stone/Brick Ovens | Stone/Brick Ovens |
| Double-distilled | Yes | Yes |
| Triple-Distilled | Yes | No |
| Additives | Unsure | No |
| ABV | 40% | 40% |
| Proof | 80 | 80 |
