The name "Jose Cuervo" needs no introduction, though, perhaps, its Reserva de la Familia lineup does. The premium-priced expressions were launched in 1995 in an effort to capitalize on the fast-changing tequila market. Introduced alongside a Reserva Platino and Reposado, the brand's three-year Extra Añejo is mixed with tequila reserves aged for over 30 years. Let's see how Jose Cuervo shook up the formula.
On the palate, again it comes across with well-matured caramel and vanilla notes, plus secondary notes of banana, orange peel, cloves, and oak-driven spices. The finish follows suit, racy with spices and a bit of heat.
The mouthfeel is thick and unctuous, providing the perfect vehicle for deep oak, agave, roasted pineapple, vanilla pound-cake and piloncillo sugar. Hints of saddle leather, cinnamon, red apple and pear are evident.
Aromas and flavors of incense, cola float, caramel-berry cobbler, and propolis with a satiny, vibrant, dry-yet-fruity fat body and an effortless, elegant, long finish.
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House Review
Nose:
Roast-y and rich on the nose, bold sourdough, pepper, baking spice and honey. A touch of rye bread, it’s malty and rich, savory and packed with spices.
Taste:
Pleasant on the palate, moderate mouthfeel. Maple, a touch of honey, pepper and clove with a hint of anise. Agave character is full and bright, toasted sesame and sourdough notes accompany.
Finish:
Long finish, spice forward and pepper laden, the sweetness of the agave pairs perfectly, making this a satisfying departure for a pour I was entirely uncertain about.
Overall:
Overall, this is quite nice. I like it quite a bit, and more than I was expecting to, if we’re being frank. It excels in balance, and while not the boldest or most powerful Extra Añejo on the shelf, it’s quite satisfying if the budget permits.
Score:
85
By t8ke
Our in house critic rates spirits on a scale of 0-10 (10 best) and is aggregated the same as external sources
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