Last Updated on: 16th May 2024, 12:47 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 Herradura Legend Añejo Tequila in this in-depth review that answers all your related questions!
Reviewed by: J Highland
Herradura Legend Añejo Tequila: Smooth and Unique with Charred Oak Notes
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Tequila expert Neil Coleman summarizes Herradura Legend as:
Strengths:
- Unique Charred Oak Flavor: This Añejo tequila is described as having intriguing charred oak notes, reminiscent of bourbon, which sets it apart from traditional agave spirits.
- Smooth and Sweet: The taste profile is smooth, sweet, and well-balanced.
- Pleasant Spice and Minerals: It has notes of bell pepper, minerals, and a touch of oak char bitterness.
- Easy to Drink: It goes down smoothly without any harsh burn.
- Appealing Packaging: The bottle has a visually appealing design.
Overall:
Herradura Legend Añejo Tequila is a good option for those seeking a smooth and flavorful Añejo tequila with a unique twist. The charred oak notes add complexity to the typical agave flavor profile, making it an interesting choice for both Herradura enthusiasts and those who enjoy bourbons. The easy-drinking nature and attractive packaging make it a well-rounded option.
Related: Top Añejo Tequila Selections
What makes it unique?
This is an Añejo Tequila aged for 14 months in heavily charred and deeply grooved barrels exposing the spirit to more layers of toasted oak.
Tasting Notes
- Nose: Burnt caramel, vanilla, agave, toasted oak
- Palate: Vanilla, caramel, bell pepper, mineral, oak char
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Neat
- Similar to: Don Julio 1942
The nose presents burnt caramel, vanilla, a hint of agave, and a toasted oak note reminiscent of Woodford Reserve.
Legend has a moderate body on the palate, but it could benefit from a richer texture.
The initial sip delivers notes of vanilla and caramel sweetness, followed by a subtle spiciness of bell pepper, oak char, and a delicate mineral undertone.
The finish is relatively short and lacks significant warmth, with a touch of oak char bitterness, hints of cinnamon, and lingering caramel.
How did I review Herradura Legend?
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
Best way to enjoy?
- Neat, to fully appreciate its flavors. For a chilled experience, chill the glass beforehand. Using ice is discouraged to avoid dilution, but a large ice ball can be used if preferred.
Price comparison?
- Ranges from $130 to $150, making it more affordable than Don Julio 1942 but pricier than average Añejos.
Details on aging?
- Aged 14 months in heavily charred, new American White Oak barrels with deep grooves for more oak exposure.
Alcohol content?
- 80 proof (40% ABV), considered low for its price range compared to higher-proof bourbons available at a lower cost.
Does it have an expiration?
- Proper storage ensures longevity without expiration, but best consumed soon after opening when reduced to about 25% to avoid a funky taste.
Use of additives?
- Unclear if the caramel and vanilla notes come from aging or additives. Transparency and ingredient disclosure remain subjects for industry debate.
Who produces it?
- Crafted at the Herradura Distillery in Jalisco, Mexico, a distillery with a legacy dating back to 1870 and now under Brown Forman's ownership.
Specifications Overview
- Type: Añejo
- Proof: 80
- 100% Agave: Yes
- ABV: 40%
- Distillation: Double-distilled
- Aging Length: 14 months
- Quality Assessment:
- Is it good? Yes
- Is it top-shelf? Yes
- Flavor Profile:
- Sweet? Yes
- Warm? No
- Smoky? No
- Recommendations:
- Good for cocktails? Not recommended due to its premium nature and the preference to enjoy its complex flavors neat.