Jose Cuervo Reserva de la Familia Extra Añejo Review

Last Updated on: 16th May 2024, 12:31 pm

Reserva de la Familia is Jose Cuervo's top Tequila but is good? Discover everything about it in this in this in-depth review!

Reviewed by: J Highland

Jose Cuervo Reserva de la Familia: A Surprisingly Smooth Extra Añejo

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Jose Cuervo Reserva de la Familia Extra Añejo Tequila is a surprising contender in the premium tequila category. Here's what makes it stand out:

Strengths:

• Smooth Extra Añejo: This Extra Añejo from Jose Cuervo offers a smooth and enjoyable taste, defying expectations associated with the brand.
• Delightful Flavor Profile: Reserva de la Familia boasts a pleasant flavor profile free of harsh notes, making it a good choice for sipping.
• Sipping in Mind: The smooth taste allows the full character of this Extra Añejo to shine through, making it best enjoyed neat or on the rocks.

Weaknesses:

• Subjective Taste: It's important to acknowledge that taste is subjective. While many find it delightful, some might have different preferences.

Verdict:

In short, Cuervo Reserva de la Familia Extra Añejo is a noteworthy Extra Añejo tequila worth considering for those seeking a smooth and enjoyable sipping experience. Its delightful flavor profile and smooth character make it a standout choice in the premium tequila category. However, keep in mind that individual tastes may vary, as noted by tequila expert Neil Coleman.

Related: Top Extra Añejo Tequila Selections

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Roasted agave, oak, caramel
• Palate: Honey, oak, agave, black pepper
• Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
• How to drink: Neat
• Similar to: Don Julio Ultima Reserva

The nose of Jose Cuervo "Family Reserve" is filled with roasted agave, accompanied by subtle hints of oak, caramel, and a faint whiff of alcohol that dissipates with time.

The initial sip delivers a burst of maple honey that is well-balanced with the flavors of oak and agave.

A slight touch of black pepper arrives late to the party.

The finish is moderate in length, with a prominent oak and honey flavor that makes it an excellent sipping Tequila.

Allowing the Tequila to breathe for approximately 15 minutes enhances its flavor profile, so take your time to fully enjoy it.

How did I review Jose Cuervo Reserve de la Familia?

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

What Makes Jose Cuervo Reserva de la Familia Special?

Jose Cuervo Reserva de la Familia is a special Tequila for several reasons:

1. Historical Significance: Founded in 1795, Jose Cuervo is Mexico's oldest commercial distiller. To celebrate its 200th anniversary, they released this Tequila, showing the rich history and tradition behind the brand.
2. Careful Selection: Jose Cuervo selects the juiciest portions of fully ripe agaves to create this Tequila. This careful selection ensures that only the best agave flavors are used.
3. Aging Process: Reserva de la Familia undergoes an aging process of 3 years in American and French oak barrels. This extended aging period contributes to the complex and refined flavors of the Tequila.
4. Extra Añejo Quality: This Tequila is classified as an Extra Añejo, which is the highest quality designation for aged Tequilas. The extended aging and quality control make it one of Cuervo's finest offerings.

How to Drink

Jose Cuervo Reserva de la Familia Extra Añejo is ideal for sipping and should be enjoyed slowly to savor its complex flavors. Here's how to drink it:

• Neat: It can be enjoyed neat, which means without any additional ingredients. This allows you to experience the full range of flavors in the Tequila.
• Over Ice: If you prefer your Tequila chilled, you can serve it over ice. To minimize dilution and preserve the flavors, consider using a large ice ball.
• No Water: Unlike some other spirits like bourbon or Scotch, Tequila generally does not benefit from the addition of water. It is best enjoyed as it is.

Price

• Total Wine: $175
• Drizly: $193
• Old Town Tequila: $170

Alternatives

If you're looking for alternatives to Jose Cuervo Reserva de la Familia Extra Añejo, consider these options:

• Don Julio 1942: Don Julio 1942 is highly regarded and offers a unique flavor profile. While it's an Añejo aged for 30 months (compared to Cuervo's 36 months), it's worth trying at least once.
• Avion Reserva 44: Avion Reserva 44 is another excellent Extra Añejo option. It's considered one of Avion's finest Tequilas and offers a smooth sipping experience with a hint of sweetness.

Comparisons between these Tequilas may not be entirely fair due to differences in aging periods, so it's recommended to explore them to find your personal favorite.

Craftmanship

Jose Cuervo Reserva de la Familia Extra Añejo is crafted at the Jose Cuervo Distillery, also known as La Riojeña Distillery, located in Tequila, Jalisco, Mexico. This distillery is responsible for producing various Tequila brands, including 1800 Tequila, Gran Centenario, Maestro Dobel, and other Cuervo releases.

Specs

• Type of Tequila: Extra Añejo
• Proof: 80
• ABV (Alcohol by Volume): 40%
• 100% Agave: Yes
• Double-Distilled: Yes
• Aging Length: 36 months in American and French Oak barrels
• Quality: Considered among the best
• Does it Expire?: No
• Sweet: Moderately sweet
• Warm: No
• Smoky: No
• Good for Beginners?: Yes
• Good for Cocktails?: No
• Calories per Shot: 98
• Gluten-Free: Yes
• Keto-Friendly: Yes