Gran Centenario Leyenda Extra Añejo Review

Last Updated on: 14th May 2024, 12:43 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.

Discover everything to know about Gran Centenario Leyenda Extra Añejo in this in-depth review that answers all your related questions!

Reviewed by: J Highland

Gran Centenario Leyenda Tequila: A Sweet Sipper for Oak Enthusiasts

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐

Gran Centenario Leyenda Extra Añejo steps into the ring as a well-respected aged tequila, according to tequila expert Neil Coleman. While smoothness and sweetness are its calling cards, a distinct oak presence might divide some tasters.

Strengths:

Smooth and Sweet: Leyenda lives up to its reputation, offering a smooth and easy-drinking experience with a pleasant sweetness.
Bold Oak Character: The extended aging process imparts a strong oak flavor, reminiscent of aged bourbons. This is a major selling point for those who enjoy oaky spirits.
Good Value: Considering the Extra Añejo category, Gran Centenario Leyenda falls within a reasonable price range.

Weaknesses:

Overpowering Oak (for some): The pronounced oak influence might overshadow the subtler agave flavors that some tequila aficionados seek.
Short Finish: Compared to other Extra Añejos, the finish on Leyenda can feel a bit brief.

Verdict:

Gran Centenario Leyenda is a solid choice for those who enjoy a smooth and sweet sipping tequila, especially if you appreciate the bold oak character found in aged bourbons. The price point makes it a contender within the Extra Añejo category. However, if you find oak overpowering or prefer a more balanced flavor profile with a longer finish, it might be worth exploring other Extra Añejo tequilas to find your perfect match.

Related: Top Extra Añejo Tequilas

What is special about Gran Centenario Leyenda?

Leyenda Extra Añejo is the premium offering from Gran Centenario Tequila, reflecting its higher price point.

This Tequila undergoes an aging process of 48 months in new American oak barrels before being bottled.

Tasting Notes

Nose: Oak, caramel, vanilla, banana
Palate: Oak, vanilla, caramel, citrus, pepper
Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
How to drink: Rocks
Similar to: Jose Cuervo Reserva de la Familia

At first whiff, the nose is dominated by oak, but with a little patience, notes of caramel, vanilla, and even banana reveal themselves.

On the palate, oak is again front and center, but as you continue sipping, flavors of caramel, vanilla, and a pleasant citrus note with a hint of black pepper emerge.

The finish is medium to long with more oak, along with caramel and spice.

How did I review Gran Centenario Leyenda?

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

Alternative Tequilas to Consider

Premium Options: Avion Reserva 44 and Casa Noble Single Barrel.
Unique Barrel Selection: Casa Noble Single Barrel is notable for its single barrel production, often resulting in a more balanced profile.
Value for Quality: Exceptional quality at an attractive price point.

How to Enjoy Leyenda

Best Served Neat: Ideal for sipping due to its smoothness.
Chilling Method: Use large ice cubes to minimize dilution.
Avoid Water: Unlike Bourbon or Scotch, Tequila's flavor doesn't improve with water.
Not for Cocktails: Due to its higher price, use more affordable options like Gran Centenario Añejo for mixed drinks.

Manufacturer

Owned by Jose Cuervo: Gran Centenario, established in 1857, is one of Mexico's oldest brands.
Global Presence: Jose Cuervo is the largest Tequila distiller in the world.

Bottle Pricing

Approximate Cost in USD: Total Wine - $120, Old Town Tequila - $160.

Alcohol Content

Proof and ABV: 80 proof (40% ABV) in most countries, 76 proof (38% ABV) in Mexico.
Tax-Related Dilution: Lower proof in Mexico for tax reasons.

Aging Process

Duration: Aged for 48 months in new American oak barrels.

Shelf Life and Storage

Longevity: Indefinite shelf life if stored properly.
Post-Opening: Best to finish the bottle when 75% empty to avoid taste alteration.

Freezing Characteristics

Freezer Storage: High alcohol content prevents freezing; ideal for preserving flavors.
Consumption: Sipping straight from the freezer preferred to avoid dilution.

Sugar and Carb Content

Sugar Level: Extremely low, suitable for strict diets.
Carbs and Diet: Carb-free, keto-friendly, but moderation advised due to alcohol content.

Use of Additives

Additive Disclosure: No guarantee of absence; distillers aren't required to disclose below 1% content.
Potential Additives: Possible infusion of additional flavors or additives.