The result is a clean, smooth tequila. We're starting to expect this in our food, why shouldn't we expect this in our spirits? Great for sipping, Siempre is incredibly smooth and naturally sweet (I.e. Is it possible to get some of the additive free cards to display on the shelves of the certain tequilas in a store? In February of 2021, Kendall Jenner announced her latest venture: 818 Tequila, a small-batch brand Jenner claims is the end result of a 3.5-year "journey to create the best-tasting tequila." This is one tequila brand youll want to display prominently on your bar cartand savor every last drop of! These are some images taken during our additive free visits. They roast their agave in brick ovens for three days before shredding it to extract the juices for fermentation, and then they distill the tequila in handmade copper pot stills made by a local artisan. Not flaunting rapper-sized bank accounts? Blanco tequila is the ideal choice for margaritas, says Eduardo "Lalo" Gonzlez, co-founder and master distiller of LALO Tequila and grandson of Don Julio Gonzlez of the iconic Don Julio tequila brand. Please send us production information and photos of the bottle on a white background. Excited to be launching the World's Most Awarded Tequila - Cierto! Cenote makes a super drinkable tequila thats flavorful without overwhelming the palette. Ritual Beverage Company is entering the tequila market. Jessica Alba, Tinx, Jojo Fletcher and Kristin Cavallari are just a few famous faces that are mega fans of theiraward-winning varietiesCucumber Jalapeo, Valencia Orange and Grapefruit Hibiscusbut we have a feeling this isjust the seed of something bigger, flavor-wise. Aging Process: Just like a fine wine, tequila also goes through an aging process. The blanco, reposado and aejo spirits were created by Palm Bay International, in partnership with Casa Don Roberto, using fully matured agaves that have been harvested by hand. Bribon Reposado Tequila. In 2020 we launched our Tequila Matchmaker Additive-Free program for brands and distilleries that want to be super transparent about their production processes and their non-use of additives. Two questions: Thanks for a complete list and for clarifying about Blancos and the NOM loophole, as well as everything else you do. 3. The Tequila: I lean toward clean, unaged agave spirits for most of the year, however, spring is a nice time for reposado and aejo. The compounds have a purpose and can correct any irregularities to make sure a brand makes the same tasting tequila time after time, but additives can also flatten tequila's natural flavors or add an unnatural sweetness. Hey, we're all about being social! In addition to a number of other brands, Don Julio, Tequila . My adviceif it doesn't taste natural or has an abnormal aroma or taste, has overly strong and unbalanced flavors, or is too sweet or has a sweet aftertaste, or is too dark in color for short aging, try one of the more trusted brands below, to see the difference. Our editors have reviewed dozens of tequila brands over the last year, to come up with some of our favorite bottles, based on taste profile, uniqueness and value. Whats more, they were one of the first brands to use certified organic agave, and theyre committed to doing good for the environment. "Among agave experts, Fortaleza is one of the most revered brands in tequila. Jim Bob Morris and Chris Chelios, co-founders of the brand, wanted the natural deliciousness . I just dont see us going there, even if we come off as snobby or elitist. What a great resource you have put together. 1. Organic tequila usually means that the agaves used were grown organically. Good, clean fun: Organic tequila is the Best Tequila. Thank you for all the info. These tequilas are soft, well-rounded and easy to drink, says Roy. HONORING CRAFT AND TRADITION MIJENTA IS AN AWARD-WINNING, ADDITIVE-FREE, SUSTAINABLE TEQUILA FROM THE HIGHLANDS OF JALISCO THAT CELEBRATES THE TRADITIONS OF MEXICAN CULTURE AND EMBODIES THE BEST OF THE LAND AND ITS PEOPLE. This incredible distillate features notes of olives, herbs, earth and grass. We are granted full access to all areas of the distillery, and have permission to take samples from any part of the process. All of Patrns tequilas are handcrafted in Jalisco, Mexico at Hacienda Patrn using the finest quality ingredients (no additives here!). The ultra-premium highlands tequila uses all the beverage buzz words, like small batch production, and distilled in handmade copper pot stills. But beyond the hype, its a smooth, easy to drink option; naturally sweetened with the rich aroma of mature agave plants, with a clean finish. 4. Others gave similar statements, while others could have.. but would not. . These days, some of the best tequilas in the world are more comparable to a fine bourbon or robust glass of wine than jello shots and beer pong, RS Recommends: The 19 Tequila Brands Were Drinking Right Now, Looking to Start Boxing After Watching 'Creed III'? Our program exists to give a third-party layer of assurance. Thank you for your rapid response, I love it. 100% Agave: Tequila comes from the agave plant, but not all tequilas are made with 100% agave sugar. ArteNOM 1579 - NOM's 1079, 1580, 1549, 1146, 1414, 1579, 1123. 2. You just need to know what to look for. I do enjoy Clasa Azul which is made by Productos Finos de Agave, I believe. An award-winning tequila, its aged for a minimum of two and a half years and produced in small batches. none of the artificial additives that make you pucker); try it over ice for a refreshing summer tequila tasting too. Tom Sizemore, Heat and Saving Private Ryan Actor, Dead at 61 I have a couple questions: The app can support any agave spirit, including mezcal. Best Value: Pueblo Viejo Blanco. All of Cincoros tequilas are made with 100% Weber blue agave from private farms in Jalisco, Mexico and are produced in small batches. Copyright 2023 Penske Business Media, LLC. 13. All of the tequilas in the Casamigos line (they have a blanco, reposado and aejo) are made with 100% Weber blue agave with agave pias that are slow-roasted in brick ovens. It doesn't mean I don't like their product or that it doesn't taste fine, but coloring is an additive. what's not to understand? .because as much as there are definitely trustworthy and talented owners like German Gonzalez and Adolfo Murillo, and I trust them just as much, the average brand that 'contracts', (meaning renting space at someones else's distillery), often have to go by practices at that distillery, and they can't be at the distillery 24/7. Its like a fine wine thats been aged to perfection. https://tastetequila.com/2017/the-lowdown-on-tequila-additives/. We need to let each other know, of the 'obvious offenders', even though it's legal up to this 1% limit. Nathan. Consider that mission achieved, plus they've built quite the celeb following! From now on, I may honestly just shop for tequilas that are on your list. The best tequila brands use only the heart of the pia (the heart of the agave) and a slow pressing method using a tahona, which is a large stone disc used to crush the juice from the pias after they have been roasted and/or steamed, she says. These additives aren't illegal, per se. And legend has it, the first margarita ever made featured Jose Cuervo. A carefully handcrafted tequila produced in small batches, the Chamucos Blanco features notes of vanilla, citrus, cinnamon and fennel. The idea: to create an ultra premium, ultra-smooth tequila at an accessible price point. Required fields are marked *. The rosado tequila is positioned as a daytime-friendly reposado, providing a high-quality option for afternoon sipping. Thankfully for you, we're breaking down store-bought tequila brands and ranking them from worst to best to help you find the perfect bottle for your taste preference and budget. Sometimes using french oak barrels may make you 'think' there are additives, because it can taster very sweet, even overly sweet. Thats what you get from Casa Nobles new aejo, a skillful and impressive blend of 12 extra aejos and nine aejos, aged in new French oak for one to five full years (most aejos are aged for a year max) with notes of ripe fruit, vanilla, white chocolate, roasted nuts, and spice. In the world of spirits, tequila is currently having a moment. All Rights reserved. There are 4 types of additives allowed by law for use in all** 100% agave tequilas: 1. View more. Look for a tequila producer that uses 100% blue agavesome companies add other flavors that distort the flavors, and you can really taste the difference, says Roy. Buy Maestro Dobel 50 Cristalino Extra Anejo $159.99. Elegant and complex, on the nose you'll find sweet spice, elegant oak and . who cares? Total Wine. This list is small now, but I hope to add more brands if it is warranted. Aejo tequila can often be recognized by its rich, caramel color, and it must be aged for at least one year (though most are aged three years) to bear the Aejo name. Is there a list of the tequilas that have been tested are NOT additive-free? This brand is one of the top-shelf tequilas that are pure with no additives included. That gives the Rosa a subtle pink hue, and a sweet yet dry finish. 3. I mean its a decent app, I would just rather keep it all in TM. Sure, tequila shots are fun at parties (and maybe gives you some liquid courage before stepping onto that karaoke stage), but artists rapping about shots of Patrn have really given tequila an undeservedly bad (and, ahem, cheap) rep. These Anti-Fatigue Mats Will Cushion and Support Your Feet, Another (Celine) Portrait: See Bob Dylan in Fashion Brand's Latest 'Performer' Series, The Best Wireless Range Extenders to Use (and How They Work), Outdoor Buds: These Fully Waterproof Workout Earbuds Are Just $30, NBA 'Investigating,' Team Suspends Ja Morant After Allegedly Flashing Gun on Social Media, See the Beths Deliver Refreshing 'Expert in a Dying Field' Mini-Set on 'CBS Mornings', Netflixs Sex/Life Is Back to Satisfy Your Softcore Desires, Alex Murdaugh Juror Says Cellphone Video, 'Big Liar' Testimony Led to Guilty Verdict. Brand founder Cirilo Oropeza named the brand Espoln, which means spur in Spanish, to honor his commitment to the tequila craft. Like all of Casa Nobles offerings, this one is certified organic, and has a limited number of bottles in select cities around the country. El EZ E, Im also a fan of the Kirkland Anejo. 1800 Agavales Altos Avion Casa Noble Casamigos Cazul . Don Julio 1942, specifically, is one of the most premium options from the brand (hence why it comes with a hefty price tag). The oak extract can add oak aromas and flavors found in oak barrels, helping to confuse you even further in thinking it was aged much longer than it was. The flavors are complex and sophisticated while still being approachable and easy to drink. Besides margaritas, Roy shares these three delicious cocktails you can make with tequila: Related:15 Interesting Things to Mix With Tequila, From blanco to reposado to aejo, Patrn offers every type of tequila you could desire. BONUS: Use code RS20 to get $20 off your order at Drizly.com. Martinez adds that a reposado tequila can also work well in a margarita. Theyre made from 100% blue agave and are meant for sipping. Hi Keith. The Norma Oficial Mexicana number (or NOM) is assigned by the Mexican government and certifies that the bottle youre holding is authentic tequila produced in Mexico. You can taste the additives in Kirkland tequilaThe best option is to not buy what doesnt disclose. I even contacted ones that some people feel are definite abusers. Trending Gran Coraminos tequilas are roasted in traditional stone ovens and barrel-aged. 4. The story you mention is from 2017: High-quality tequila producers will use 100%, but others may use things like sugar or molasses to make their product cheaper, adds Roy. According to The Spirits Business, the top-selling tequila brand in the world is Jose Cuervo. Tears of Llorona, $285, Sauza clocks in as the ninth best-selling tequila brand in the worldand for good reason. Although partly owned by Bacardi since 2017, Ilegal remains one of the most sustainable and socially engaged mezcal brands around, having been founded in 2006 by John Rexer to supply his bar in Antigua, Guatemala. Buy Santo Mezquila $49.99. 15 Interesting Things to Mix With Tequila, Miguel Escobar Martinez, master distiller for, Eduardo "Lalo" Gonzlez, co-founder and master distiller of, Justin Lavenue, owner/operator and co-founder of. Tasha . Olmeca Altos, $28+, Tequila Bribn is the result of a two-year mission to produce high-quality tequila that appeals to newbies and aficionados alike. Bartenders love Cenote in a Paloma too, and the company responded by introducing the first-ever World Paloma Day last May. I'm sure the brands are well aware of this, which only makes the problem worse. There wont be any need to link to this version of the list. "We think it's 70% by sales volume last year, so there will always be fewer additive free-tequilas," Scarlet tells me. I hope more distilleries become a part of this project! This is tequila thats only aged for a few weeks, so it doesnt have time to develop the color and characteristics that come from a longer aging process. This list will be updated each time a brand is added (or removed) from the program. Now, the Red Rocker is throwing his hat back in the ring with Santo, a joint effort tequila brand with Guy Fieri. In some parts of the world they are. El Pandillo (G4, Terralta, etc.) Others like Jose Hermosillo of Casa Noble told me "we use no additives, that is why we do the kosher certification." Reposado tequila is also aged but the aging process can be anywhere from two months to 11 months. He uses different distillation equipment and different agaves grown at different altitudes, as an alternative, and as long as you have the additional equipment, use your head, and not take the easy way out, this is a perfect solution instead of using additives. Fortaleza Blanco. Grover, would you consider adding a score column to the list in the future? I'd rather have the 'natural color' after aging, and blend it that way with the other batches, without ANY colorings. What they probably say to themselves is, 'we don't exceed the 1% rule, so there is no need to discuss this at all', and as far as they are concerned .they are NOT using additives. Arandas, in the Jalisco mountains of Mexico, is home to Cazcabel. The . In fact it was after I bought it that I even discovered tequila could have added sweeteners including things like aspartame and saccharin. Want to upgrade your bar cart, but not sure where to start? This is most pronounced with the Rosa, which spends a month in un-charred Napa Valley Cabernet French white oak barrels, giving it a beautiful pink hue and notes of ripe fruit and cherry on the . no headache-inducing fillers). As I asked for their word on 100% additive free (including the legal 1%), let it be understood that misleading consumers is as far as I'm concerned, a reflection on these brands, and THEY are the ones that should look bad. I say keep it pure and natural. Another best-selling brand, Don Julio launched in 1942 and was named after Don Julio Gonzlez, the brand's first Jimador. 2- If quality and purity is your concern, as it is for me, go with brands that are known for NOT using additives, or don't seem to care about dark and rich consistent colors, and don't taste overly sweet, artificial, or unnaturally rich. If you want to discover an authentic Mexican tequila with a bold yet traditional flavor, then order a bottle of El Tesoro. This is an all-around crowd-pleasing tequila, too, with a wonderfully distinct flavor profile thats at once rich and complex. Several factors come into play at each stage of this process, but at the very least, for a tequila to be great, it must be all agave, with no additives. . It quickly became a staple then and is a mainstay still today. 1. Popular Brands. Again it's YOU that decides this. They were. The popularity of tequila has exploded in recent years, and as the spirit has evolved, so, too, has the number of brands on the market. You dont get the same distinct flavor profile as some of the other bottles on our list, but for a refreshing, straightforward Blanco, this one is a no-brainer to pick up. Tequila Patrn, for example, has a NOM of 1492. . It was founded by Ana Mara Romero Mena, who grew up in Mexico City and started her career in tequila more than 30 years ago. Tequila Casa Del Sol. Thats why I stick to and fully endorse the products from NOM1146 . I want the Real Thing. There are brands that have actually admitted to me that they use coloring to match each 'batch', so as to keep consistency between runs. Some brands have obviously taken advantage of these powerful concentrated additives, colorings and flavorings to make their brands 'profile' which they have become known for, and don't appear to be stopping. No additives The Reposado features notes of sweet vanilla, oak, mushrooms, ginger, caramel and citrus, which gives it that perfect balance of earthiness, sweetness and spiciness with an easy finish and no lingering aftertaste. So who knows what a distillery may do to 'enhance' a contract brands juice, for their own convenience. Pure agave tequila is low in sugar, has no carbohydrates, and (minus sugary juice mixers) is fairly low-calorie, too. Country singer George Strait is an investor in the brand, and even wrote a song inspired by the tequila (aptly named Codigo) off his 2019 album, Honkey Tonk Time Machine.. 2) We will eventually create this list within the app itself. There are a handful of smooth, premium-tasting tequilas you can get for under $100 too. 1) Yes, there are many tequilas that are additive free, but have not gone through our process. There are plenty of other websites, YouTube channels, Instagram and TikTok accounts that happily promote additive-filled tequila. Thanks. Discover the Best of New York Wines with Hermann J Wiemer at Aroma Thyme Bistro. (They even make their own compost!) Are they true, who can you believe? They can also use glycerin to make the mouthfeel 'rounder', slicker, thicker, oilier, sweeter and different altogether. 5 Types of Tequila. The more tequilas you taste and really scrutinize, the easier it gets to pick out additive flavorings. I'm told that some distilleries will use additives because it's cheaper and faster to get things done, and who's to say if this is with or without the owners knowledge? Highlights: Mezcal made with sustainably cultivated agave by a company that is highly socially engaged. As far as alcohol goes, it's not a bad option. Cazcabel. This may be one of the priciest options on our list, but this top-shelf tequila is worth the premium price. Patron has stepped up with this seriously smooth, barrel-aged anejo. And fun fact: It was created in tribute to the year Don Julio Gonzlez started his tequila-making journey. Do you have plans or know of any plans to do something similar with Agave Spirits? If you're still going for corn-based alcohols (not just whiskey, bourbon and rye, but some gins and vodkas, too), pick ones made with non-GMO corn. Espolon Blanco tequila honors Mexico's art and history, and the story of Espolon - the spur of a rooster - is great for starting conversations. Those too are permitted by Mexico's Tequila Regulatory Council . However, we need someone willing to be the curator of each spirit. While some tequilas make us pucker, or burn the inside of our mouths and throats, Cenotes Blanco Tequila is light, mellow and refreshing. Tequila Matchmaker is the only rating system smart enough to detect your personal preferences and match you with the tequilas that are right for you. The big problem is that additives aren't required to be disclosed, although I believe they should be, even if it's 1%. I wish something as concise was available for other agave spirits. A silky and savory tequila, Chamucos goes as well with Baja fish tacos as it does with a simple lime slice. dried fruit, and vanilla. Espolns collection also includes a reposado, aejo, reposado chardonnay and aejo cristalino. $159.99. Cincoro Tequila, $90+, Lavenue says Espoln Blanco is one of the best-value tequilas on the market. If that's all they ever did, I guess it's livable, although I'd prefer an 'off color' myself, and being completely additive free. Youve also probably seen flavored tequila, which is tequila infused with things like coconut, lime, strawberry or jalapeno. Thanks to investment and refinement from some pioneering brands, long gone are the days when Tequila was known only for its harsh palate. With notes of fresh-cut grass and tropical fruit, you can always have it in a cocktail, but this is a fantastic tequila to pair with dinner, or a good cheese plate. This type of tequila has been aged a minimum of two months to one year in oak barrels, which gives the liquid a light golden color, says Martinez. Avion founder Ken Austin, said that Avion is 100% additive free, and cited the light color in the anejo. Brands made at their own distillery can be easier to believe, when they proclaim themselves additive-free, as only the owner/distiller controls what goes in the juice. No, this is good tequila because it's a crisp, spicy, flavorful, and very versatile spirit. In fact, the grandson of founder Don Felipe Camarena oversees production today. Thank you for your time and commitment. The distillery actually sits on the edge of an extinct volcano, whose porous foundation acts as a natural filter for the spring water used to make their tequila. Long Island Lou Tequila's Personal Additive - Free Favorites List, ArteNOM 1579- NOM's 1079, 1580, 1549, 1146, 1414, 1579, 1123, Patron - NOM 1492-(no additives but "Americanized"). This INCLUDES the legal 1% allowance, and I made that an important point to each brand. The brand offers two options: reposado cristalino and aejo. We like the Maestro Dobel 50, a smooth and complex Extra Aejo Cristalino thats aged in American and Eastern European oak barrels, then twice-distilled in copper pot sills. Our proprietary matching algorithm uses nine different characteristics to find the best . Casa Noble Blanco is a tequila brand that uses local agave, particularly estate-grown agave. However, section 6.1.1.1 states that the products defined in 5 sections, including 4.36.1, allows for edulcorantes, colorantes, aromatizantes y/o saborizantes permitidos por la Secretara de Salud (sweeteners, coloring, aromas and flavors allowed by the Health Secretary.). Its an easy-drinking bottle, ideal for upgraded cocktails (think, Aejo old fashioneds) or sipping on the rocks. Best tequila overall: Tequila Ocho Plata La Caada 2022. Thank you for the clarification. It would be a handy reference when shopping. What Are the Best Cocktails to Make With Tequila (Other Than Margaritas)? Our top pick is the Tequila Ocho Plata La Caada 2022, a single-estate tequila that's perfect for sipping. $46 at Reserve Bar. Casa Noble is one of several organic-certified tequila brands, but that's not why it's good. Its fresh and flavorful, with just the right amount of spice and a hint of earthiness. Youll also want to consider what the tequila is being used for. . These are often referred to as a Mixto, where colors and flavors are added prior to bottling. View more. When mixed together, both vodka and tequila can be a good option with coke zero. This makes the Avila a great choice for solo sipping or mixing in cocktails. Kristopher DeSoto was on a mission to create a more robust and expressive tequila than the kind usually found on U.S. shelves and he succeeded. Often it is to 'balance' the batches in appearance, so they are the same color before blending. Hard to believe, but I'm told it's very possible. Vivanco (NOM 1414) -7 brands. If you are looking for something with a little more flavor, tequila may be the better choice. The female-owned and led brand was co-founded by CEO Bertha Gonzlez Nieves, the first female maestra tequilera certified by the Mexican Academy of Tequila Tasters. Each tequila decanter is handcrafted by indigenous artisans in a small village in Mexico who create beautiful patterns on the ceramic surface of each bottle. Hi Josh. I'm a Tequila/Agave Connoisseur, Taster & Reviewer. This tequila pulls soft notes from the barrels like caramel and vanilla, as well as sweet, tropical fruity flavors like pineapple, and works well with the herbaceous flavors of the tequila, adds Sylvi Roy, bar manager at Twelve in Portland, Maine. So thats one of the big reasons why we decided to start up the verification program. We can do both, cant we? It also tells you which tequila producer it comes from. Keep up the great work, I know I greatly enjoy the content. He said people have their opinions about Productos Finos de Agave, but he was clear that any sweet profile is strictly from very ripe agaves. "We choose to . Enjoying catching up on your videos and love the passion you two have to this wonderful juice! Total Wine. 1. Hiatus uses a ground-to-glass method which combines traditional methods and modern technology, produced by master distiller, Luis Trejo Rodrguez at La Cofrada. Can I assume that if the distillery is verified, that all of their products are free from additives? Avoid flavored and colorful alcohol, which can contain additives, high fructose corn syrup (made from GMO corn), food coloring and more. Silver (or Blanco) tequila is probably the most well-known, and it typically appears perfectly clear in the bottle. Tired of Standing? These distilleries are: Patron Tequila (NOM 1492) Tequila Fortaleza (NOM 1493) -2 brands. I will go from this list next time I am picking a tequila to taste and buy. I assume these brands tell themselves that it's part of the 'tequila making procedure'. Send us a tip using our anonymous form. Im just hell-bent, and Guys got the same passion.. Each tequila has its own "flavor fingerprint," and each person has his or her own flavor preferences. Whats inside the decanters is pretty neat too: Clase Azul offers a variety of top-notch tequilas, including reposado, aejo and gold varieties. Blending of different barrels at the end before bottling, plays a major role in tequila making, and remember that although they use the barrels multiple times, they may also be blending with a fresh 'new' aged barrel of tequila as well, as this really is an art. El Jimador Tequila Silver is the best Blanco tequila for making mixed drinks. We choose to only make blanco to honor the agave, the people behind our product and Mexico, says Gonzlez. Siembra Azul Blanco is an exemplary tequila blanco from the highlands of Jalisco. Keep in mind that technically, if you exceed the 1% total volume rule, it must be labeled as a 'licor' or a 'crema', like these (ABOVE), and that's the way it should be. This tequila is produced in the lowlands of the Jalisco region, so it wont exhibit the same sweetness or fruit-forward flavors as some of the other picks on our list. Founder Don Francisco changed the tequila process forever as he was the first person to cook agave in little ovens. Rodriguezs favorite in the collection is the classic Patrn Silver. It has notes of vanilla, ripe fruit and butter and can be enjoyed neat, with salt and lime, chilled, or however else you like to drink your tequila.
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