Herradura Ultra Añejo Review

Last Updated on: 16th May 2024, 12:41 pm

Discover everything about the Herradura Ultra Añejo in this in-depth review that answers all your related questions!

Written by: J Highland

Herradura Ultra: Smooth and Sweet Tequila (Agave Syrup Added)

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐

Tequila expert Neil Coleman describes Herradura Ultra as a unique tequila with a very sweet profile. Here's a breakdown of its key characteristics:

Strengths

• Remarkably Smooth: Exceptionally smooth and easy to drink.
• Sweet Flavor with Vanilla Note: Prominent sweetness featuring a strong vanilla note.
• Sweet Tooth Appeal: Suitable for those who enjoy sweeter spirits.

Weaknesses

• Non-Traditional Tequila Flavor: Departs from the traditional agave-forward flavor profile expected from tequila.
• Blind Tasting Confusion: In a blind taste test, some might mistake it for flavored vodka due to the subdued agave character.
• Specialty Spirit Consideration: Due to the minimal agave presence and added sweetener, some suggest it might be categorized as a specialty spirit rather than a traditional tequila.

Verdict

Herradura Ultra is a very smooth and sweet tequila that achieves its sweetness through added agave syrup. This results in a taste profile that differs significantly from traditional tequila. While some might find it enjoyable, those who prefer the classic agave taste of tequila might be better suited with other options.

Related: Cristalino Tequila Top Selections

What makes it special?

Ultra is a fusion of Herradura Añejo and the exceptional Herradura Seleccion Suprema, creating a harmonious blend.

Afterward, the blend undergoes charcoal filtration, refining its color and smoothing out any rough elements.

To enhance its sweetness, agave nectar is infused, yielding a notably smooth and sweet Tequila.

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Vanilla, caramel, agave
• Palate: Agave syrup, vanilla, agave
• Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
• How to drink: Neat or rocks
• Similar to: Maestro Dobel

The aroma presents prominent notes of vanilla, accompanied by caramel and agave.

Tasting Ultra reveals an intense sweetness reminiscent of agave syrup, with a pronounced presence of vanilla and a subtle agave undertone.

However, it should be noted that there is a discernible artificial sweetener-like flavor that may not appeal to everyone, particularly those who dislike such additives.

The finish is brief and sweet, devoid of any harshness or lingering bite.

How did I review Herradura Ultra?

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

• Don Julio 70 is the top Cristalino Tequila, known for its sweet and smooth taste.
• Maestro Dobel offers a budget-friendly option with a rich agave flavor.

How to drink it?

• Sip it over ice for an easy-going and smooth experience.
• Consider reserving it for sipping rather than using it in cocktails due to its higher price and sweetness.

Is it good to make Margaritas?

• It may not be ideal as it lacks the necessary peppery and warm character for Margaritas.

Is it good for shots?

• Yes, it is suitable for those seeking a smooth, sweet shot without harshness.

Additives

• Herradura openly acknowledges the infusion of agave syrup and appears to contain additional artificial flavors such as vanilla and artificial sweetness.

Price

• Total Wine: $43
• Drizly: $65

Alcohol content

• 80 proof (40% ABV) in the United States and 70 proof (35% ABV) in Mexico.

Where is it made?

• Herradura has been crafted in Amatitan, Jalisco, Mexico since 1870, making it one of Mexico's oldest Tequila distillers.

Ownership

• The company was acquired by US-based Brown-Forman in 2008, known for owning brands like Jack Daniel's, Old Forester, and Woodford Reserve.

Does it expire? Does it go bad?

• Tequila does not have an expiration date but consume opened bottles with approximately 75% remaining promptly to avoid an unpleasant flavor over time.

Herradura Ultra Añejo: Specs

• What are the specifications of Herradura Ultra Añejo?
• Type: Blanco
• Proof: 80
• 100% Agave: Yes
• ABV: 40%
• Double-distilled: Yes
• Triple-distilled: No
• Aging length: None
• Is it good? Yes
• Is it top-shelf? No
• Does it expire? No
• Sweet? Yes
• Warm? No
• Smoky? No
• Good for beginners? Yes
• Good for cocktails? Not the best