Last Updated on: 13th May 2024, 06:49 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.
Explore my comprehensive review that delves into all aspects of JAJA Tequila, providing in-depth answers to all your related questions!
Reviewed by: J Highland
JAJA Tequila: A Likeable Choice for Mixing
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
JAJA Tequila might be your perfect match if you're looking for a reliable and affordable tequila for crafting cocktails. This review dives into JAJA's strengths and weaknesses, exploring who might enjoy it the most, based on insights from tequila expert Neil Coleman.
Strengths
- Easy to Enjoy: JAJA goes beyond expectations for celebrity-backed tequilas, offering a pleasant and smooth drinking experience.
- Mixing Marvel: The slightly peppery taste profile makes JAJA a versatile choice for creating delicious cocktails and fun shots.
- Budget-Friendly: JAJA offers similar taste characteristics to Jose Cuervo Tradicional Silver at a competitive price point, making it a great value option.
Weaknesses
- Not for Sipping: While smooth, JAJA might lack the nuanced flavor profile desired by those who prefer sipping their tequila neat.
Verdict
JAJA Tequila is a solid choice for budget-minded mixologists seeking a smooth tequila for cocktails and shots. However, if you're a sipping enthusiast looking for a complex tequila to savor neat, JAJA might not be the best fit.
Related: Celebrity Tequila List
Tasting Notes
- Nose: Mint, pepper, agave, grapefruit
- Palate: Black pepper, grapefruit, agave
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Cocktails
- Similar to: Lisa Barlow Tequila
The nose of JAJA brings a subtle mint note, black pepper, cooked agave, and grapefruit.
The initial taste is reminiscent of black pepper, followed by the flavors of grapefruit and agave.
The finish is relatively short, with a slight warmth as it goes down, leaving hints of mint, citrus, and agave.
How did I review JAJA Tequila?
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
Ownership
- Launched in 2018 by Maurice Tebele, Elliot Tebele, and Martin Hoffstein, JAJA Tequila was created with the vision of a "fun, modern and authentic luxury Tequila."
Production
- JAJA is produced at the Jose Cuervo Distillery, identified by the 1122 NOM number.
- The distillery also produces other brands like Jose Cuervo, 1800 Tequila, Gran Centenario, and Maestro Dobel.
Recommended Drinking Method
- Best suited for cocktail making due to its warmth and peppery character.
- Suitable for a range of cocktails including Ranch Water, Batanga, or Tequila Sunrise.
Suitability for Margaritas
- JAJA is a decent option for Margaritas, offering a balance of affordability and a suitable flavor profile.
Suitability for Shots
- JAJA's warm but not overpowering character makes it a good choice for shots, especially for those seeking an affordable option.
Alternatives
- Jose Cuervo Silver, due to production at the same distillery.
- Lunazul Blanco, utilizing agaves from the Cuervo Estate.
- Espolon Blanco, known for its excellence in cocktails.
Pricing
- Drizly: Approximately $33
- Total Wine: Approximately $31
Alcohol Content
- Bottled at 80 proof (40% ABV).
Shelf Life and Storage
- Tequila can last indefinitely if stored correctly. Once opened, it's best to consume before the bottle is three-quarters empty to avoid taste changes.
Sugar and Carbohydrate Content
- Low in sugar, making it a good choice for calorie-conscious consumers.
- Mixing with sugary drinks is not recommended.
- Carb-free and Keto-friendly, but moderation is key due to alcohol.
Use of Additives
- JAJA Tequila appears to be genuine, lacking artificial vanilla or cake batter flavors.
- For a list of additive-free Tequilas, refer to a roundup of top choices.
JAJA Tequila: Specs
- Type: Blanco
- Proof: 80
- 100% Agave: Yes
- ABV: 40%
- Double-distilled: Yes
- Aging Length: None
- Quality: Okay
- Top-shelf status: No
- Expiration: No
- Sweetness: Medium
- Warmth: A bit
- Smokiness: No
- Suitable for Beginners: Yes
- Good for Cocktails: Yes
- Calories per Shot: 98
- Gluten-free: Yes
- Keto-friendly: Yes