Last Updated on: 22nd May 2024, 10:09 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.
Discover everything about Don Vicente Extra Añejo Tequila in this in-depth review that answers all your questions!
Reviewed by: J Highland
Don Vicente Extra Añejo: A Top-Shelf Añejo with Agave at its Heart
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Tequila connoisseur Neil Coleman hails Don Vicente Extra Añejo as a contender for the best in its class. Crafted by El Pandillo distillery, renowned for its master distiller Felipe Camarena, this tequila prioritizes agave flavor while showcasing the artistry of aging.
Strengths:
- Balanced Agave and Oak: Don Vicente Extra Añejo strikes a perfect harmony between the essence of blue weber agave and subtle oaky notes acquired during extended aging. Unlike some tequilas, the agave remains the star of the show.
- Unique Baking Spice Twist: This Añejo offers a surprising yet delightful touch of baking spice, reminiscent of a good bourbon. This can be a pleasant discovery for whiskey enthusiasts exploring the world of premium tequilas.
- Pure and Unadulterated: Free from artificial flavorings and additives, Don Vicente Extra Añejo lets the high-quality ingredients speak for themselves, resulting in a pure and authentic tequila experience.
Weaknesses:
- Understated Presentation: While the focus is clearly on the tequila itself, the bottle design might not be the most visually striking, especially considering its price point.
Verdict:
Don Vicente Extra Añejo prioritizes quality over flashy presentation. Its focus on pure agave flavor and subtle aging notes makes it a satisfying Añejo experience, earning it a place among the top tequilas according to Neil Coleman. This is a worthy addition for any tequila lover's collection, particularly those who appreciate a balanced and agave-forward Añejo.
Related: Top-Shelf Extra Añejo Tequilas
What's unique about Don Vicente Extra Añejo?
- Don Vicente is an additive-free Extra Añejo Tequila aged three years in white oak American barrels.
- It was honored with the title of Tequila of the Year at the 2023 SF World Spirits Competition.
Learn more: Don Vicente Tequila Website
How does it taste?
- Nose: Agave, vanilla, caramel, oak, cherry
- Palate: Agave, baking spice, oak, vanilla, caramel
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Rocks
The nose kicks off with a strong agave smell, followed by hints of vanilla, caramel, oak, and a touch of cherry.
On the palate, it's smooth with hardly any burn, delivering a rich blue agave taste up front, followed by rich baking spices, oak, vanilla, and caramel.
The finish lingers, offering a pleasant warmth as it goes down, with a satisfying hint of baking spice and agave.
How did I review Don Vicente Tequila?
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:
- G4 Extra Añejo 55, crafted at El Pandillo by Felipe Camarena, offers similar flavors to Don Vicente but is bottled at a higher proof, providing a bolder experience.
- Tapatio Excelencia, crafted by Carlos Camarena, brother of Felipe, stands out as a favorite in this category, boasting incredible apple pie aromas.
Drinking Recommendations:
- Allow the Tequila to sit in a Glencairn glass for 15 minutes at room temperature before sipping it neat.
- For a chilled option, consider adding whiskey stones to avoid dilution.
- This Tequila is not recommended for cocktails or as a shooter.
Price:
- Availability may be limited as it has yet to be stocked by major online retailers.
- Expect to find it priced in the range of $150 to $200, which is reasonable considering its characteristics.
Ownership
- Don Vicente is owned by Brian Trevizo based in El Paso, Texas.
Product Specifications:
- Type: Extra Añejo Tequila
- Proof: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- 100% Agave: Yes, ensuring a pure tequila experience
- Double Distilled: Yes, for a smoother taste
- Aging: 3 years in Bourbon barrels
- Quality Assessment: Top-Shelf
- Expiration: Long shelf-life with no expiration when stored properly
- Calories: 98 per shot
- Dietary Information: Gluten-free and Keto-friendly
Review Methodology:
- Personal Insight: As a pub and liquor store owner, I have direct access to various spirits.
- Customer Feedback: Incorporates opinions from customers and patrons.
- Online Research: Cross-referenced with online sources for comprehensive evaluation.