Don Julio Blanco "Blue Bottle" Tequila Review

Last Updated on: 16th May 2024, 12:40 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.

Don Julio Blanco is one of the best-selling Tequilas across the globe, but is it good? Discover everything about it in this in-depth review.

Reviewed by: J Highland

Don Julio Blanco Tequila: Sweet and Peppery Blanco (Versatile for Sipping or Cocktails)

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐

Tequila expert Neil Coleman describes Don Julio Blanco as a good choice within the Blanco Tequila category, particularly for those new to tequila. Here's a detailed look at its key characteristics:

Strengths

Sweet and Peppery Flavor Profile: Predominantly sweet with a hint of black pepper, offering an approachable taste.
Classic Blanco Character: Offers a flavor profile characteristic of unaged tequilas, appealing to traditionalists.
Versatile Option: Suitable for both neat sipping and mixing in cocktails due to its balanced flavor profile.
Reasonably Priced: Falls within a reasonable price range, contributing to its popularity and accessibility.

Weaknesses

Bite on the Finish: Some reviewers mention a noticeable warmth or "bite" in the aftertaste, which might not be to everyone's liking.
Potential for Additives: Neil Coleman raises questions about the use of artificial sweeteners or enhancements, which might concern purists.

Verdict

Don Julio Blanco Tequila is a sweet and peppery Blanco tequila positioned as a versatile option for both sipping and mixing cocktails. Its reasonable price point and approachable sweetness make it a popular choice, especially for those new to tequila. While there may be concerns about potential additives and a noticeable bite on the finish, it remains a solid and well-regarded option in the Blanco category.

Tasting Notes

Nose: Alcohol, agave, orange, earth
Palate: Agave, black pepper, citrus, alcohol
Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
How to drink: Rocks
Similar to: Cabo Wabo

On the nose, Don Julio Blanco carries a strong alcoholic note, giving the impression of a warm Tequila.

When tasted, it offers a smooth and moderately sweet experience, with prominent citrus notes, a touch of earthiness, mineral undertones, and a subtle hint of black pepper.

Although it lacks some texture, there is very little heat present in the Tequila.

The finish is of decent length, predominantly sweet, but with a slight bite that serves as a reminder of its Tequila character.

How did I review Don Julio 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

Additives

Don Julio Blanco offers a subtly sweet profile, reminiscent of Splenda, suggesting a possible artificial enhancement. While this sweetness is minimal, it raises questions about the authenticity of its flavor. Notably, other products from Don Julio, including the famed Don Julio 1942, have faced similar scrutiny for perceived artificial tastes.

Alternatives

For those seeking a genuine Tequila experience without additives, Don Fulano Blanco and Ocho Plata emerge as excellent alternatives. Renowned for their authentic flavors and commitment to purity, these Tequilas ensure a more authentic sipping experience.

Drinking Recommendations

Don Julio Blanco provides versatility in consumption methods:

Neat: Ideal for seasoned Tequila drinkers who appreciate its nuanced flavors.
On the Rocks: Ice can soften the warmth, enhancing its smoothness.
Cocktails: Its adaptable flavor profile makes it a solid choice for a range of Tequila-based cocktails.

Suitability for Margaritas

Don Julio Blanco can craft a satisfactory Margarita. However, for those desiring a more pronounced kick, a Tequila with a more robust, peppery profile might be preferred.

Suitability for Shots

This Tequila serves well as a shooter, offering a smooth experience without a harsh burn, making it a pleasant option for quick consumption.

Price

United States: $54
Canada: $84
Great Britain: £40
Australia: $102

These prices position Don Julio Blanco as a premium option within the Blanco Tequila category.

Production Process

Crafted from 100% Blue Weber agave, Don Julio Blanco undergoes a meticulous production process:

Cooking: Agave hearts are slow-cooked in brick ovens.
Extraction: A roller mill is used to crush the cooked agaves, extracting the sweet juice.
Fermentation: The agave juice ferments for several days before being double-distilled and bottled without aging.

Hangover Potential

Switching from Scotch and Bourbon to agave spirits like Tequila can significantly reduce hangover symptoms, thanks to the unique sugar composition of agave. However, moderation is key to avoiding the adverse effects of alcohol consumption.

Shelf Life

Tequila maintains its quality indefinitely when stored properly but should be consumed within a reasonable period after opening to preserve its optimal taste.