Jose Cuervo Reserva de la Familia Extra Añejo

A rich nose dominated by caramel and toffee. The initial taste is dark, slightly smoky, with a sweet profile like caramel flan. It has a medium body, a gentle warmth, and a peppery sensation on the tongue's back. The long finish leaves a lingering spicy note. It evokes a sense of history and tradition. The presentation is also remarkable, featuring a wooden artist's box adorned with the work of a celebrated artist. Inside, alongside the bottle, is an artist-signed booklet explaining the artwork's concept and creation. The entire package makes a striking display piece for your bar. Highly endorsed.

I'm not typically a tequila drinker; the characteristic agave flavor isn't really my preference. That said, I have enjoyed a few. This is a fine example of an excellent tequila. It's rich, with oily vanilla agave, smoky toasted oak, and more layers to discover. I wouldn't purchase a bottle myself, but if you appreciate a dram of Mexico's finest, this would be a good starting point. A solid 4.25 rating from me... I should explore those highly-praised Mezcals next.

I appreciate the sweet notes of caramel, vanilla, and smoke. My main critique is the prominent alcohol presence, which is quite assertive upon sipping, unlike 1942 and Clase Azul. The thinner mouthfeel, similar to Clase Azul and less so than 1942, is a positive. The intriguing smoky, umami flavors in the mid-palate and finish are also enjoyable. This was the 2018 release.

This brings things full circle for me, as Cuervo is the brand that has led to many jumbled recollections of what people perceive tequila to be. Make no mistake, this is made using traditional methods and is additive-free (I believe). It offers significant sweetness in the form of vanilla and caramel. It has a more vegetal agave presence than most extra Anejos, but I don't see that as a negative. A pleasant spirit to sip.

From the 2019 batch, an elegant agave spirit produced by NOM 1122 and presented in a box designed by Melanie Smith, bottled at 38% ABV. The aroma presents agave, wood, fruit, nuts, herbs, and spices. The taste features cherry, sweet oak spice, vanilla, and roasted agave, concluding with a balanced, medium-length finish of pepper, cinnamon, almond, cognac, and smoke.

A light, sweet aroma of oak and vanilla. The flavor is mildly sweet, with oak notes, a hint of agave, and pepper. The finish is mildly oaky and vanilla, warm, with subtle red apple undertones. It's smooth, with no harshness. My first taste was from the bottle at Gloria's in Arlington, TX.