Last Updated on: 13th May 2024, 06:38 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.
Dive deep into Tapatio Excelencia Extra Añejo with my comprehensive review, addressing all your Tequila queries.
Reviewed by: J Highland
Tapatio Excelencia Extra Añejo: A Premium Aged Tequila Experience
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Agave Takes Center Stage in This Smooth Extra Añejo
Tapatio Excelencia Extra Añejo stands out among aged tequilas, offering a luxuriously smooth journey from the first sip to the lingering finish. While some aged tequilas share flavor profiles with bourbons, Tapatio strikes a delightful balance. The oak influence is present but subtle, ensuring the rich agave flavor remains the star of the show. Hints of apple pie and baking spices add a layer of complexity, making this tequila truly captivating.
Strengths:
- Smooth and Enjoyable: Tapatio boasts a luxuriously smooth character, perfect for sipping and savoring.
- Agave-Forward Profile: Unlike some tequilas, Tapatio prioritizes the rich agave flavor, with oak playing a supporting role.
- Intriguing Complexity: Hints of apple pie and baking spices add an interesting layer to the agave and oak notes.
- Authenticity: Tapatio uses no additives, staying true to its 100% agave roots.
Weaknesses:
- Price: Tapatio Excelencia Extra Añejo falls on the pricier side of aged tequilas.
- Availability: Finding a bottle can be challenging due to limited distribution.
Verdict:
Tequila connoisseur Neil Coleman recommends Tapatio Excelencia Extra Añejo for those seeking a smooth and flavorful Extra Añejo. The agave takes center stage, complemented by subtle oak and baking spice notes. While the price tag might be steeper and availability limited, Tapatio offers a truly captivating sipping experience for those who appreciate a premium tequila.
Also read: Best Extra Añejos
Tasting Notes
- Nose: Agave, vanilla, caramel, apple pie
- Palate: Agave, apple pie, caramel, oak
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Rocks
- Similar to: Fuenteseca Reserva Extra Añejo
The nose showcases a prominent cooked agave scent, accompanied by hints of vanilla and caramel.
With some time to aerate, a baked apple pie note becomes noticeable.
Regarding the palate, the body lacks the desired oiliness but still offers a satisfying mouthfeel.
The flavor profile showcases a robust presence of agave, complemented by apple pie, baking spice, caramel, and subtle oak notes.
The finish is pleasantly long, with minimal to no warmth, with notes of oak and almond.
How did I review Tapatio Excelencia?
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.
Tapatio Excelencia Extra Añejo Tequila: Detailed FAQ
Alternatives:
- Tesoro Extra Añejo & G4 Extra Añejo 55: Both highly regarded in the Extra Añejo category, offering unique aging techniques and profiles.
Drinking Recommendations:
- Best Consumed Neat: Highlights its smooth and distinct character.
- On the Rocks: Use large ice cubes for minimal dilution.
- Not Ideal for Cocktails: Best appreciated in its pure form.
Aging Process:
- Duration: Aged for four years in first-fill deep charred American white oak barrels.
- Impact on Flavor: Creates a rich, deep flavor profile.
Distillery Information:
- Made at La Alteña: Renowned for high-quality Tequila production.
- Founded in 1937: By Don Felipe Camarena, a respected name in the industry.
Price:
- Retail Price Range:
- Old Town Tequila: $160
- Drizly: $150
- Value Proposition: Excellent value for an Extra Añejo under $150.
Alcohol Content:
- Proof: 80 proof (40% ABV), typical for Tequilas.
Shelf Life and Storage:
- Longevity: Indefinite shelf life when stored properly.
- Post-Opening: Best consumed once opened, especially when down to the last 25%.
Additives:
- Authenticity: Crafted without additives, ensuring a genuine Tequila experience.
Product Specifications:
- Type: Extra Añejo Tequila
- Quality: Exceptional, top-shelf category
- Flavor Profile: Sweet, without warmth or smokiness
- Suitable For: Experienced drinkers, not ideal for beginners or cocktails
- Calories: 98 per shot
- Dietary Info: Gluten-free, keto-friendly
Insightful Notes:
- The Essence of Tequila: Tapatio Excelencia Extra Añejo is a celebration of traditional Tequila craftsmanship, embodying the depth and complexity achievable through meticulous aging.
- A Journey Through Flavors: This Extra Añejo invites connoisseurs on a sensory journey, revealing layers of nuanced tastes that unfold with each sip.
- A Tribute to Tradition: Representing a legacy of excellence, Tapatio Excelencia stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of authentically produced Mexican Tequilas.
Review Methodology:
- Personal Insight: As a pub and liquor store owner, I have direct access to various spirits.
- Customer Feedback: Incorporates opinions from customers and patrons.
- Online Research: Cross-referenced with online sources for comprehensive evaluation.