Last Updated on: 14th May 2024, 12:33 am
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.
Uncover all the details about Don Cheyo Extra Añejo in this comprehensive review that addresses all your inquiries!
Written by: J Highland
Don Cheyo Tequila: A Sweet Escape for Tequila Novices
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Craving a smooth and easy-drinking tequila experience? Look no further than Don Cheyo, according to tequila expert Neil Coleman. This tequila offers a delightful escape into the world of tequilas, especially for those new to agave spirits.
Strengths:
- Dessert-like Smoothness: Forget the harshness sometimes associated with tequilas. Don Cheyo boasts a smooth and approachable character, making it a pleasant experience for all.
- Sweet Satisfaction: This tequila leans towards the sweeter side of the flavor spectrum, offering a crowd-pleasing taste profile.
- Budget-Friendly Luxury: If you've heard whispers of the coveted Don Julio 1942 but find the price tag a bit daunting, Don Cheyo offers a similar sweetness at a more affordable cost.
Weaknesses:
- Potential Additives: It's important to consider that some tequilas produced by the same distillery as Don Cheyo contain additives. This might be a concern for purists who prefer tequilas made solely from 100% blue agave.
- Limited Complexity: The focus on sweetness might overshadow the subtler agave flavors that some tequila enthusiasts seek.
Verdict:
Don Cheyo is a great choice for those who prioritize a smooth and sweet tequila experience. Newcomers to tequila or those who enjoy a touch of sweetness in their spirits will find Don Cheyo to be a delightful introduction. The affordability makes it an attractive option, especially for those seeking a budget-friendly alternative to Don Julio 1942. However, be aware of the potential presence of additives, and if an authentic agave experience is your top priority, you might want to explore other options.
What's unique about Don Cheyo Extra Añejo?
Don Cheyo is an Extra Añejo Tequila that undergoes a 36-month aging process before being barreled.
Extra Añejo is considered the top tier in the world of Tequila, and its price reflects this distinction.
However, Don Cheyo offers a pleasant surprise by being remarkably affordable compared to other Tequilas of similar quality.
Tasting Notes
- Nose: Oak, agave, caramel, vanilla
- Palate: Caramel, vanilla, agave, oak spice
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Neat
- Similar to: Don Julio 1942
The nose initially reveals oak, followed by subtle hints of agave, caramel, and vanilla.
There is a slight whiff of ethanol that diminishes over time as the bottle breathes.
When tasted, Don Cheyo offers a smooth and sweet entry, with flavors of caramel and vanilla.
These are followed by the presence of agave, a delicate fruity note, and a touch of oak spice that imparts a gentle bitterness.
The finish is of decent length, delivering a pleasant experience with virtually no heat.
Notes of caramel and oak persist, leaving a satisfying impression.
How did I review Don Cheyo Extra Añejo?
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
- Avion Reserva 44 and Casa Noble Single Barrel Extra Añejo: These are great options in the same price range. Casa Noble Single Barrel, in particular, is a high-quality, well-priced choice.
Does Don Cheyo Use Additives?
- Potential Additives: While Mexican regulations allow additives below 1%, Don Cheyo seems to have an artificially sweetened profile. Its association with distilleries known for non-traditional flavors suggests possible use of additives.
How to Drink
- Neat or Chilled: Enjoy Don Cheyo neat or with large ice cubes. Using whiskey rocks can also prevent dilution while keeping the drink cool.
Is it Good for Cocktails?
- Not Ideal for Cocktails: Better to save Don Cheyo for sipping. Use a more affordable Blanco Tequila for making cocktails.
Bottle Price
- Approximate Prices in USD:
- Oldtowntequila.com: $120
- Drizly.com: $110
Availability
- Online Shopping: Available on websites like totalwine.com, drizly.com, and oldtowntequila.com for convenient home delivery.
Alcohol Content
- Strength: 80 proof (40% ABV).
Does it Expire?
- Shelf Life: Can last indefinitely if stored properly.
- Post-Opening: Best consumed once it's down to 25% to maintain flavor.
Sugar Content
- Low Sugar Content: Agave spirits are naturally low in sugar, but avoid mixing with high-sugar drinks.
Don Cheyo Extra Añejo: Specs
- Type: Extra Añejo
- Proof: 80
- 100% Agave: Yes
- ABV: 40%
- Double-Distilled: Yes
- Aging Length: 36 months
- Taste Profile: Sweet, not warm, not smoky
- Suitability: Good for beginners, but not recommended for cocktails
- Calories per Shot: 98
- Gluten-Free: Yes