Last Updated on: 17th May 2024, 01:13 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.
In this post, I share with you how I drink Don Julio Añejo, along with cocktail ideas and food pairings.
Written by: J Highland
Best Way to Drink Don Julio Añejo
"I recommend drinking Don Julio Añejo neat. Its silky texture, combined with a sweet richness touched by cinnamon, makes it especially appealing to whiskey enthusiasts. Contrary to bourbons, which can benefit from a splash of water, I'd advise against adding water to Don Julio Añejo.", states Tequila expert Neil Coleman.
Related: Top Añejo Tequilas
On the Rocks
Given its 40% ABV (80 proof), watering it down can diminish its intricate flavors.
If you're inclined to chill it, consider adding large ice cubes to minimize dilution, ensuring that each sip maintains its authentic taste.
Sipping Don Julio Añejo
Don Julio Añejo is a connoisseur's delight.
Sip it slowly, let it sit on the palate, and enjoy the unfolding layers of flavors.
Its rich profile makes it unnecessary to accompany it with salt or lime.
Choice of Glassware
When it comes to glassware selection for Don Julio Añejo, I'd steer clear of traditional Tequila glasses, as they tend to confine the aromas.
Instead, this particular Tequila, with its depth and complexity, is best appreciated in a whiskey tumbler.
The broader bowl of the tumbler allows the nuanced scents to flourish, offering a fuller olfactory and tasting experience.
Tasting Notes
The nose of Don Julio Añejo evokes similarities to whiskey, showcasing traces of vanilla, oak, caramel, and a subtle citrusy zest.
Upon tasting, one is greeted by a comforting warmth punctuated by a prominent cinnamon essence that consistently lingers.
Its flavor profile mirrors bourbon, blending rich vanilla and oak tastes with sweet hints of butterscotch, enhanced by smoky and woody nuances.
The concluding taste is extended and delightfully warm, marked predominantly by cinnamon and accompanied by wooden undertones.
Shots
Don Julio Añejo, with its intricate flavors and meticulously aged profile, is not designed for quick shots.
This Tequila is truly a sipper, best enjoyed slowly to appreciate its depth and complexity.
Shooting it would be doing a disservice to its rich character and the craftsmanship that went into producing it.
Cocktails
Don Julio Añejo comes with a heftier price tag, so it's not the Tequila you'll find in my upcoming cocktail creations.
For a more budget-friendly Añejo, consider Espolón or El Mayor— both can deliver a commendable experience at nearly half the cost.
However, if you choose to splurge on Don Julio Añejo, rest assured, it can indeed elevate a cocktail to exquisite heights.
Old Fashioned:
- 2 oz Tequila
- 0.25 oz agave syrup
- 2 dashes of bitters
Stir ingredients with ice, and strain into a glass over a large ice cube. Garnish with an orange twist.
Añejo Sour:
- 2 oz Tequila
- 1 oz fresh lemon juice
- 0.75 oz simple syrup
Shake all ingredients with ice. Strain into a chilled glass. Garnish with a lemon wheel.
Food Pairings
Here are five food pairings that complement the depth and character of Don Julio Añejo:
- Mole Negro: Mole Negro, a rich and complex Mexican sauce made with chocolate and spices, pairs wonderfully with Don Julio. The tequila's oakiness and caramel notes harmonize with the deep flavors of the mole, creating a delightful contrast.
- Ribeye Steak: A perfectly grilled ribeye steak, seasoned with a touch of salt and pepper, offers a robust and savory pairing with this Añejo. The tequila's oak and vanilla undertones complement the charred and meaty flavors of the steak.
- Aged Gouda Cheese: Aged Gouda cheese with its nutty and caramelized flavors makes for an excellent pairing with Don Julio Añejo. The tequila's oak and spice notes complement the complexity of the cheese.
- Chocolate Torte: A rich chocolate torte or flourless chocolate cake pairs beautifully with this Tequila.
- Cigar: While not a food pairing, a fine cigar, especially one with earthy and woody notes, can be a delightful accompaniment to this Añejo. The Tequila's oakiness and complexity complement the flavors of the cigar, creating a relaxing and indulgent experience.
Storing the Bottle
Ensure Don Julio Añejo remains impeccable by:
- Storing: Away from direct sunlight in a cool place.
- Keeping: The bottle upright.
- Ensuring: A tight seal to prevent unwanted air.
- Remember, once you hit the last quarter of the bottle, it's best to consume it soon to savor its authentic taste.
Quick Note: Running a pub and liquor store provides me ample access to various spirits, in addition, I moonlight as an agave spirits distiller. I assess them using customer feedback, expert opinions and online research.