Best Gran Centenario Tequila

Last Updated on: 17th May 2024, 05:52 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.

With the assistance of Tequila expert Neil Coleman and customer feedback, I have reviewed and ranked every Gran Leyenda so you decide which suits you best.

Written by: J Highland

Choosing the Best Gran Centenario Tequila

Gran Centenario offers a variety of tequilas, but the "best" depends on your preference:

• Blanco: Gran Centenario Plata is unique with a light oak twist due to aging. It's better for cocktails due to its sweetness and slight bitterness.
• Reposado: Gran Centenario Reposado has a strong oak and spice flavor. It's good for those who enjoy a bold oak character but might be a turnoff for those who prefer smoother Reposados. Consider having it on the rocks.
• Añejo: Gran Centenario Añejo is a good value for a smooth Añejo. It's versatile for sipping, mixing, or even shots.
• Extra Añejo: Gran Centenario Leyenda has a very strong oak presence that might overpower the agave flavor. If you prefer a balance between agave and oak, there might be better options for the price.

• Selection Criteria: 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.

Gran Centenario Plata Tequila: Light Oak Twist on Blanco (Better for Cocktails)

Gran Centenario Plata offers a unique twist on a Blanco tequila, with some pros and cons to consider:

Unique Aged Blanco:

• Aged for 28 days in French Limousin oak, giving it a light amber color and slight oak influence.
• Stands out from unaged Blancos with a touch of vanilla and oak flavor.

Taste Profile:

• Aroma: Candy-like with hints of rubber and baking soda (not for everyone).
• Initial Taste: Smooth and sweet with vanilla and oak notes (similar to a Reposado).
• Mid-palate: Develops a slight bitterness that some might not enjoy.
• Finish: Short and unremarkable, with vanilla and black pepper flavors.

Overall:

• An interesting option for those curious about oak-aged Blanco tequilas.
• Not the best for sipping neat due to the bitterness; consider it for mixed drinks where the flavor profile can complement cocktails.
• There might be better Blancos for sipping at a similar price point.

Recommendation:

• This tequila might be better suited for cocktails than straight sipping due to the oak influence and slight bitterness, states tequila expert Neil Coleman.

Gran Centenario Reposado Tequila: Oaky & Spicy

Gran Centenario Reposado Tequila offers a distinct flavor profile, but it might not be for everyone. Here's a breakdown:

Aroma:

• Pleasant charred oak scent with hints of agave, caramel, and subtle alcohol.

Taste:

• Initial Heat & Bitterness: A bit hot and bitter upon first sip, lacking body.
• Oak & Spice: Dominated by oak and caramel flavors with peppery and cinnamon-like spice.
• Artificial Sweetness: Slightly sweet finish that some might find artificial.
• Moderate Finish: Warmth lingers for a moderate time.

Overall:

• Unique Oak Influence: The 6-month aging in charred oak barrels delivers a strong oak presence.
• Better on Rocks: The bitterness might be more manageable when served chilled over ice.
• Consider Bitterness: The prominent bitterness might be a turnoff for some who prefer smoother Reposados.

Recommendation:

• This Reposado prioritizes bold oak and spice notes. If you enjoy a more pronounced oak character, this could be a good choice.
• For those who prefer a smoother and less bitter Reposado, there might be better options available.

Gran Centenario Añejo Tequila: Smooth & Affordable Añejo (Caramel, Oak, Mixable)

Gran Centenario Añejo Tequila offers a good value for the price, with a smooth profile that makes it versatile for sipping or mixing. Here's a quick summary:

Flavor Profile:

• Aroma: Bourbon-like with oak, caramel, vanilla, and roasted agave.
• Taste: Starts with blue agave and apple, transitioning to oak, vanilla, and caramel with a touch of spice.
• Finish: Moderate length with balanced caramel and oak character.

Overall:

• Smooth & Easy Drinking: This Añejo is easy to sip due to its smoothness.
• Balanced Flavor: Offers a mix of agave, oak, caramel, and vanilla without overwhelming bitterness.
• Versatile Option: Suitable for sipping neat, mixing in cocktails, or even taking shots (though sipping is recommended to appreciate the flavors).
• Affordable Choice: A good value for the price point within the Añejo category.

Gran Centenario Leyenda: Strong Oak Influence in an Extra Añejo

Gran Centenario Leyenda Tequila falls into the Extra Añejo category, boasting an impressive 4 years of aging. Here's a breakdown of its profile:

Aroma:

• Strong oak presence initially, with hints of caramel, vanilla, and banana emerging over time.

Taste:

• Oak dominates the initial flavor, followed by gradual notes of caramel, vanilla, citrus, and black pepper.

Finish:

• Medium to long, with lingering oak, caramel, and spice.

Overall:

• Bold Oak Influence: The extended aging results in a strong oak character, which might overshadow the agave for some.
• Agave Subdued: While other Extra Añejos aim for balance, Leyenda prioritizes the oak flavor.
• Consider Value & Preference: If you enjoy a pronounced oak taste profile, this could be a good choice. However, for those seeking a balance between agave and oak with strong value for money, there might be better options available.
• Price Point: Being an Extra Añejo, this will likely be a more expensive tequila.

Pricing Guide

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick FAQ

Is Gran Centenario a Gold Tequila?

• Type: Gran Centenario is not a Gold Tequila. It is 100% agave and does not contain additives like some Gold Tequilas, which mix agave and sugars.

How Does Gran Centenario Rank as a Tequila Brand?

• Quality: A decent mid-shelf brand, suitable for those with moderate expectations.
• Production Scale: Large-scale production, reflected in its overall quality and price point.

Who Owns Gran Centenario?

• Ownership: Owned by Jose Cuervo, alongside other brands like 1800 Tequila.
• Significance: It is part of the only major Mexican-owned Tequila distillery group, contrasting with other brands acquired by foreign companies.