Last Updated on: 13th May 2024, 07:20 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 all the details about Cenote Blanco Tequila through my comprehensive review, designed to address all your inquiries!
Written by: J Highland
Cenote Blanco Tequila: Peppery Punch, But Look Elsewhere for Everyday Sipping
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
Cenote Blanco tequila offers a distinct flavor profile that caters to specific tastes, according to tequila expert Neil Coleman. While it might not be your everyday sipping tequila, it has its merits. Here's a breakdown to help you decide if it's the right blanco for you:
Strengths:
- Bold Peppery Flavor: Cenote Blanco offers a unique and assertive peppery taste that some might find interesting and refreshing.
Weaknesses:
- Limited Versatility: The peppery profile might be too strong for casual sipping or mixing cocktails, especially considering the price point.
Verdict:
Cenote Blanco's peppery personality might be a turn-off for those who prefer a smoother blanco tequila. However, if you enjoy a bold and distinct flavor, Cenote Blanco could be an interesting exploration. Tequila expert Neil Coleman suggests considering other tequilas under $30 for everyday sipping or cocktails, as they might offer a better value and wider range of flavor profiles.
Related: Affordable Blanco Tequilas
Tasting Notes
- Nose: Orange, lime, earth, agave
- Palate: Pepper, orange, agave, earth
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Rocks
- Similar to: Padrino Blanco
The nose of Cenote features strong notes of orange and lime, followed by a hint of damp earth and a distinct agave scent.
Upon tasting, the flavor is initially dominated by black pepper, which then mellows into a pleasant orange taste accompanied by the agave and earthy notes detected in the aroma.
The finish is decent and features a spicy pepper note, followed by a slightly sharp sensation as the Tequila goes down.
How did I review Cenote Blanco?
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
- Budget-Friendly: El Padrino Blanco is more affordable and smoother than Cenote.
- Great Value: Cimarron Blanco offers excellent taste at an affordable price.
- Solid Taste, Lower Price: Dulce Vida is a compelling, less expensive alternative.
Drinking Suggestions
- Cocktail-Focused: Ideal for Tequila Ranch Water or mixed with Coke, Sprite, or pineapple juice.
- Price Consideration: Less attractive for mixing due to its mid-$40s price range.
Suitability for Margaritas
- Peppery Profile: Good for Margaritas, but price may deter some consumers.
Shot Suitability
- Peppery Finish: Not ideal for shots due to its flavor profile.
- Alternative for Shots: Espolon Blanco offers a balance of affordability and taste.
Ownership and Production
- Maker: Crafted at Fabrica de Tequilas Finos in Jalisco, Mexico.
- Owner: Acquired by the Stoli Group, known for Stolichnaya Vodka.
Bottle Price
- Costs (approximate):
- Total Wine: $46
- Drizly: $44
- Value for Money: Other Blanco Tequilas under $50 offer better value.
Alcohol Content
- Standard Proof: 80 proof (40% ABV), typical for Tequila.
Shelf Life and Storage
- Longevity: Indefinite shelf life if stored properly.
- Optimal Usage: Best consumed before the bottle reaches 25% to maintain flavor.
Sugar and Carbohydrate Content
- Low Sugar: Ideal for calorie-conscious individuals.
- Keto-Friendly: Yes, but consume in moderation.
Additive-Free
- Authenticity: Appears to be free of foreign chemicals and additives.
Tequila Specifications
- Type: Blanco
- Quality: Mediocre
- Top-Shelf Status: Not classified as top-shelf
- Calories per Shot: 98
- Gluten-Free: Yes
- Keto-Friendly: Yes