Gran Centenario Plata Tequila

Gran Centenario is the leading tequila brand in Mexico. Although not yet widely available commercially in the US, Centenario offers a tequila product that ranks among the best in its competitive price segment. Centenario Plata is a distinctive barrel-rested silver tequila that imparts subtle barrel influences while maintaining an agave-forward profile. Prominent notes of roasted agave, pepper, smoke, and wheat grass are evident on both the nose and palate. Subtle hints of oak and spices are also present, leading to a smooth finish with nuanced vanilla.

Enjoyed neat. The aroma is lovely, bright, sweet agave. The taste is quite sweet, then presents fresh agave along with all its herbal and fruity character, finishing with a touch of black pepper. Many pleasant, clean flavors are present, but the sweetness becomes cloying, particularly in the finish where it's unpleasantly sweet. It's akin to a sugar-free rendition of my ideal tequila...so close...but ugh.

Rich and Agave This spirit has a pungent aroma, reminiscent of agave and chemicals. It tastes dark and rich, a blend of earthy agave with a hint of citrus and wood. Towards the end, the wood imparts a bitter quality. Overall, this spirit is quite enjoyable. Thus far, it is the finest dark and rich tasting plata tequila I have had neat. At $27, it offers good value.

This is quite nice. I'd describe it as Tequila++. It possesses all the typical flavors and aromas you expect from a quality tequila, but also has a very rounded profile that rests on top like a comforting blanket. It adds warmth and makes it much easier to enjoy without much thought. This is definitely a good one.

This is unpleasant served straight... I cannot fathom why. I would select a different brand's reposado over this if I had to drink it neat. And yes, at 28 days it is essentially a reposado. That being said, their añejo is likely a superior purchase. It is acceptable in a cocktail, but requires a significant amount to mask the unpleasantness.

Really quite good. A bit spirited (which I like)—not as mellow as Corralejo Blanco, but it has more depth/character. Amazing with a lime. Drinks well neat, but I'd rather take shots. Will likely purchase this repeatedly, and it's probably now my go-to tequila. Great value for $25.