Gran Patron Smoky Tequila Review

Last Updated on: 16th May 2024, 12:39 pm

Discover if Gran Patron Smoky is worth the hype with my unbiased review. Read my expert opinion before deciding if it's right for you.

Reviewed by: J Highland

Gran Patrón Smoky Tequila: Smoky High-Proof Añejo with Agave Presence

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Tequila expert Neil Coleman describes Gran Patrón Smoky as a top-shelf tequila suitable for sipping neat or on the rocks. Here's a detailed look at its key characteristics:

Strengths

• Smoky Flavor: Distinguished by its smoky flavor profile, achieved through a special roasting process for the agave piñas.
• Agave Presence: Despite the smoky influence, the agave character remains noticeable, adding depth to the flavor.
• Complexity and Smoothness: Described as complex, layered, and surprisingly smooth, even with its high proof.
• No Additives: Crafted without additives, highlighting the focus on authenticity and quality.

Weaknesses

• Price Point: Falls within a premium price range. While some reviewers find the price justified for the quality, others consider it expensive.

Verdict

Gran Patrón Smoky Tequila is a high-proof Añejo tequila with a distinct smoky flavor profile. The agave character remains prominent alongside the smoke, creating a complex and smooth sipping experience. Crafted without additives, this premium tequila focuses on authenticity and craftsmanship. While the price point might be a consideration, many reviewers find it worth the splurge for its quality and unique smoky taste. Ideal for those who appreciate a refined and smoky tequila, Gran Patrón Smoky is best enjoyed neat or on the rocks.

What's special about it?

What sets Gran Patron Smoky apart is its unique production process, reminiscent of Mezcal traditions.

Instead of the typical stone oven, the agaves are cooked in an earthen pit using wood as fuel.

This imparts a distinct smoky characteristic to the Tequila, similar to Mezcal.

The cooked agaves are crushed using a traditional 2-ton tahona stone, enhancing the preservation of natural sweetness compared to mechanical roller mills.

The fermentation takes place in pine wood vats, adding a subtle wood influence to the flavor profile.

Gran Patron Smoky is bottled at 101 proof (50.5% ABV), providing a punchier and more intense drinking experience than the average Tequila.

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Smoke, agave, earth, orange
• Palate: Agave, smoke, black pepper, pine wood
• Alcohol content: 101 proof (50.5% ABV)
• How to drink: Neat

The aroma of Gran Patron Smoky presents a delightful hit of smoke, accompanied by agave, earth, and hints of orange.

When tasted, it offers a viscous and textured mouthfeel, providing a satisfying experience.

The flavor profile showcases the combination of cooked agave and smokiness, followed by subtle black pepper, pine wood, and a touch of orange.

The finish is warm and lingering, with lingering smoky notes and a gentle touch of pepper.

How did I review Gran Patron Smoky?

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

• For those interested in a smoky flavor profile, Mezcal offers the best alternative to Tequila. Unlike some celebrity-endorsed mezcal brands that might lack authentic mezcal characteristics, Bozal Mezcal presents a more genuine and affordable option, delivering the traditional smoky notes desired by aficionados.

How to Drink

• Gran Patron Smoky is best savored neat, allowing you to fully appreciate its complex and rich smoky flavor. For those who prefer their spirit chilled without dilution, freezing the glass beforehand is recommended. If ice is preferred, large ice cubes are advised to minimize dilution. Given its unique profile, it's not recommended for use in cocktails; instead, an affordable mezcal could be used for smoky Margaritas.

Price

• The price of Gran Patron Smoky varies significantly among retailers, with Drizly listing it at $220 and Total Wine at $290. This variance underscores the importance of price comparison when shopping for this premium spirit.

Alcohol Content

• At 101 proof (50.5% ABV), Gran Patron Smoky offers a more concentrated flavor experience compared to standard 80 proof Tequilas. Despite its higher alcohol content, it retains a smoothness that avoids the harshness typically associated with higher-proof spirits.

Production Process

• Gran Patron Smoky undergoes a traditional process, starting from the harvesting of mature blue agave plants to cooking in underground ovens using wood, enhancing its smoky flavor. The agave hearts are then crushed with a tahona stone, fermented in pine wood vats, and distilled in copper stills, culminating in a high-quality, clear spirit.

Does it Expire?

• Tequila, including Gran Patron Smoky, can be stored indefinitely if kept in a cool, dark place. To maintain optimal flavor, it's recommended to consume the Tequila once the bottle is opened, particularly when reaching about 25% full.

Sugar Content

• Being a 100% agave Tequila, Gran Patron Smoky is exceptionally low in sugar, making it an ideal choice for those monitoring their calorie intake.

Use of Additives

• Patron stands out for its commitment to authenticity, refraining from using additives in its Tequila production. This approach ensures Gran Patron Smoky remains true to the natural flavors of agave, distinguishing it from other brands that might employ artificial enhancements.

Gran Patron Smoky: Specs

• Type: Blanco
• Proof: 101
• 100% Agave: Yes
• ABV: 50.5%
• Triple-distilled: No
• Aging Length: N/A
• Flavor Profile: Offers a pleasantly warm and distinctly smoky taste, making it a premium choice not ideally suited for beginners or cocktail use.
• Dietary Info: Gluten-free, Keto-friendly