Last Updated on: 4th April 2024, 11:19 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 in-depth comparison of Don Julio 1942 vs Tears of Llorona to decide which Tequila suits you best!
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
Don Julio 1942 vs Tears of Llorona: Comparison
Don Julio 1942: A luxurious sipping tequila with a creamy texture and a rich blend of caramel, vanilla, chocolate, and oak. Perfect for enthusiasts and bourbon fans seeking a sophisticated and smooth experience.
Tears of Llorona: Offers a unique, smooth complexity with a blend of agave, chocolate, and a hint of smoke, aged in three types of casks for unparalleled depth. Ideal for those seeking a powerful yet smooth extra añejo tequila.
Verdict: Don Julio 1942 and Tears of Llorona both represent great experiences in tequila tasting, each offering a unique profile that caters to sophisticated palates. Whether seeking the creamy smoothness of Don Julio or the rich complexity of Tears of Llorona, both provide exceptional sipping experiences, states tequila expert Neil Coleman.
Related: Discover the Top Extra Añejo Tequila
Don Julio 1942: A Sophisticated Sipping Tequila
- Nose: Vanilla, caramel, agave, oak
- Palate: Agave, vanilla, citrus, chocolate
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Neat, rocks
- Similar to: Fortaleza Añejo
Inviting Aroma: Vanilla takes center stage, complemented by hints of caramel, roasted agave, and oak.
Smooth and Creamy: The texture is incredibly smooth and velvety, pampering your palate.
Rich and Balanced Taste: Caramel leads the flavor profile, followed by a harmonious blend of chocolate, agave, and oak. A touch of smoke adds depth without overwhelming the experience.
Long, Warming Finish: The finish lingers with rich agave, oak, and subtle cinnamon notes, leaving a satisfying warmth.
Is it Worth It?
Don Julio 1942 is a great choice for many drinkers, especially:
- Tequila Enthusiasts: Enjoy an exceptionally smooth sipping experience.
- Bourbon Fans: Familiar caramel and oak notes create a welcoming taste profile.
Sweet & Smooth: While slightly sweeter than some expect for its age, it delivers a delightful and easy-drinking experience.
Enjoyment Tips: Savor it neat or slightly chilled with large ice cubes or whiskey stones to avoid diluting the flavors.
Don Julio 1942 Facts:
- Honors the year Don Julio Gonzalez began his tequila-making journey at age 17.
- Aged for 30 months in ex-bourbon barrels, contributing to its flavor profile.
- Owned by Diageo, a large beverage company with various brands like Johnnie Walker and Casamigos.
Remember: Personal preference plays a major role. Try it to see if you enjoy the unique profile!
Tears of Llorona: A Luxurious Tequila Experience
- Taste: Agave, dark fruit, dark chocolate
- Palate: Agave, faint smoke, chocolate, charred oak
- Alcohol content: 86 proof (43% ABV)
- How to drink: Neat
- Similar to: Clase Azul Reposado
Unveiling Richness: The deep, natural color hints at the quality of Tears of Llorona.
Smooth Complexity: Enjoy a smooth, slightly smoky flavor journey with perfect balance of oaky notes, subtle sweetness, and a touch of spice. The higher proof adds a pleasant kick.
Short but Satisfying: While the finish might not be the longest, it leaves a lasting impression.
Why it Stands Out:
- Unique Aging: This Extra Añejo spends 54 months in 3 distinct casks (Scotch, sherry, cognac), infusing it with remarkable complexity.
- Smooth & Powerful: With an 86 proof, it packs more punch than typical Tequilas while remaining smooth and easy to sip.
A Top Choice: Tears of Llorona is an exceptional Extra Añejo and a contender for the best Mexican Tequilas available.
Tears of Llorona Facts:
- Aged for over 4 years in 3 different casks.
- Crafted by Maestro Tequilero German Gonzalez, whose family has a rich history in Tequila making.
Remember: Personal preference plays a big role in tequila enjoyment. Try it yourself to see if you like its unique profile!
How do they differ?
There is one main difference between these drams:
- Don Julio 1942 is an Añejo Tequila aged 30 months in bourbon barrels before bottling, adhering to the tequila aging rules of 12 to 36 months.
- Tears of Llorona is an Extra Añejo or Tequila’s first class. This type of Tequila is aged for 3+ years.
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Tequila | Price | Content |
| Don Julio 1942 | $187 | 750ml |
| Tears of Llorona | $280 | 1 liter |
Specs comparison
| Characteristics | Don Julio 1942 | Tears of Llorona |
| Type of tequila | Añejo | Extra Añejo |
| Aging length Months | 30 | 54 |
| 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 | Autoclave |
| Double-distilled | Yes | No |
| Triple-distilled | No | Yes |
| Additives | Unsure | No |
| Certified organic | No | No |
| ABV | 40% | 43% |
| Proof | 80 | 86 |