Fortaleza Tequila is one of the most sought-after spirits in the world. But with its skyrocketing popularity comes a wave of criticism: Is Fortaleza overrated? Is it worth the hype? As someone who’s had the privilege of visiting the distillery and meeting the people behind this iconic brand, I’m here to give you my honest take.

In this article, I’ll share my experience visiting Fortaleza in Tequila, Jalisco, dive into the brand’s rich history, and explain why I believe Fortaleza is not overrated—it’s one of the best tequilas on the market.

The Fortaleza Story: A Legacy of Tradition

To understand Fortaleza, you need to know its history. The brand is the brainchild of Guillermo Sauza, a fifth-generation tequila maker whose family has been crafting tequila for over 150 years. The Sauza family originally founded the Casa Sauza brand, which became one of the most recognizable names in tequila. However, in the late 1990s, the family sold the brand to a large conglomerate, leaving Guillermo with a small plot of land and a dream to revive his family’s legacy.

In 2005, Guillermo launched Fortaleza (known as Los Abuelos in Mexico), a brand dedicated to making tequila the traditional way. Using ancestral methods, including a tahona stone to crush agave and small copper pot stills, Fortaleza quickly gained a reputation for its authenticity and quality.

My Visit to the Fortaleza Distillery

I recently had the opportunity to visit Fortaleza’s distillery in Tequila, Jalisco, and it was an unforgettable experience. Here’s what stood out to me:

1. The Distillery Is Tiny

Compared to the massive operations of other tequila brands, Fortaleza’s distillery is remarkably small. They produce just 320,000 liters per year—a drop in the bucket compared to giants like Jose Cuervo, which produces 275,000 liters per day. This small-scale production allows Fortaleza to focus on quality over quantity.

2. Traditional Methods

Fortaleza’s commitment to tradition is evident in every step of the process:

• Tahona Stone: They use a single tahona stone to crush their agave, a labor-intensive method that extracts the purest flavors.
• Copper Pot Stills: The distillery uses small, old-fashioned copper pot stills, some of which date back to the original Sauza distillery.
• Barrel Aging: Fortaleza ages its tequila in repurposed American whiskey barrels, which are re-charred to create a consistent flavor profile.

3. Handcrafted Bottles

They handcraft every Fortaleza bottle, from the glass stoppers to the labels. They meticulousy attention to detail is incredible, and it’s clear that every aspect of the brand is designed to honor its heritage.

Is Fortaleza Tequila Overrated?

Now, let’s address the big question: Is Fortaleza overrated?

The Criticism

• Availability: Fortaleza is notoriously hard to find, leading to frustration among fans.
• Price: Some bottles can sell for upwards of $200 on the secondary market, though the brand itself doesn’t control these prices.
• Hype: As Fortaleza’s popularity has grown, so has the skepticism. Some argue that it’s overhyped by influencers and content creators.

My Take

After visiting the distillery and experiencing the brand firsthand, I can confidently say that Fortaleza is not overrated. Here’s why:

1. Authenticity: Fortaleza is one of the few brands still making tequila the traditional way. Their commitment to quality and heritage is unmatched.
2. Flavor: Whether it’s their Blanco, Reposado, or Añejo, Fortaleza’s tequilas are consistently exceptional. The flavors are complex, balanced, and true to the agave.
3. Legacy: The Sauza family’s history is deeply intertwined with the history of tequila itself. Drinking Fortaleza isn’t just about enjoying a great spirit—it’s about connecting with a piece of Mexican culture.

While the hype and scarcity can be frustrating, they’re a testament to the brand’s quality and authenticity. Fortaleza isn’t trying to be the biggest tequila brand—it’s trying to be the best.

Why Fortaleza Tequila Stands Out

Here are a few reasons why Fortaleza continues to be one of the most respected tequila brands in the world:

1. Small-Batch Production

Fortaleza’s small-scale production ensures that every bottle meets their high standards. They’re not cutting corners to meet demand, and that’s something I deeply respect.

2. Ancestral Methods

From the tahona stone to the copper pot stills, Fortaleza’s production methods are a nod to the past. This dedication to tradition sets them apart from mass-produced tequilas.

3. Family Legacy

The Sauza family’s story is one of resilience and passion. Guillermo Sauza could have rested on his family’s laurels, but instead, he chose to rebuild their legacy from the ground up.

The Fortaleza Experience: A Closer Look

The Agave Fields

One of the highlights of my visit was walking through Fortaleza’s agave fields. The agave plants, some as young as one year old, are meticulously cared for. The terroir of the region, with its rich volcanic soil, plays a significant role in the flavor profile of the tequila.

The Cave Bar

Fortaleza has a unique cave bar where they age some of their spirits. The cave provides a natural, cool environment that enhances the aging process. It’s also a magical place to enjoy a cocktail, surrounded by the history and craftsmanship of the brand.

The Winter Blend

During my visit, I had the chance to taste the Winter Blend 2024, a limited-edition release that showcases the best of Fortaleza’s craftsmanship. The Winter Blend is a blend of their finest aged tequilas, offering a complex and rich flavor profile that’s perfect for sipping.

The Future of Fortaleza Tequila

Fortaleza’s future looks bright, but they’re in no rush to expand. Guillermo Sauza’s goal has always been to make tequila the ancestral way, and he’s committed to maintaining the brand’s integrity. While there have been discussions about expansion, any growth will be slow and deliberate, ensuring that the quality of the product remains uncompromised.

Final Thoughts

Fortaleza Tequila is more than just a spirit—it’s a celebration of tradition, craftsmanship, and family. While its popularity has led to some criticism, I believe the hype is well-deserved. Fortaleza isn’t overrated; if anything, it’s still underrated by those who haven’t had the chance to try it.

If you’re lucky enough to find a bottle, savor it. And if you ever get the chance to visit the distillery, don’t hesitate. It’s an experience that will deepen your appreciation for this incredible brand.

Cheers to Fortaleza—a true masterpiece of tequila-making.

When it comes to tequila, few names carry as much weight as Don Julio. It’s a brand that’s synonymous with quality, tradition, and luxury. But did you know that the grandson of the original Don Julio has created his own tequila brand? Meet Lalo Tequila, a brand founded by Eduardo “Lalo” González, the grandson of Don Julio himself.

I recently had the chance to dive deep into Lalo Tequila, from its fascinating backstory to its flavor profile, and even got to sit down with Lalo González for an exclusive interview. Is Lalo Tequila the next Don Julio? Let’s find out.

The Story Behind Lalo Tequila

Lalo was founded five years ago by Eduardo “Lalo” González and his childhood friend, David Carballido, who has extensive experience in the tequila industry. The name “Lalo” comes from a nickname given to Eduardo by his grandfather, the original Don Julio.

What I find most intriguing about Lalo is its focus on simplicity and tradition. While Don Julio offers a wide range of expressions, Lalo has chosen to focus solely on Blanco tequila. According to Lalo, this decision is about honoring the roots of tequila and showcasing the complexity of the agave plant itself.

The Bottle: Sleek, Simple, and Striking

One of the first things that caught my eye about Lalo Tequila is its bottle design. It’s clean, minimalist, and elegant—a reflection of the brand’s mission to strip tequila back to its roots. The branding is understated yet impactful, and I think it perfectly captures the essence of what Lalo is trying to achieve: a return to the basics of tequila-making.

The Flavor Profile: What Does Lalo Tequila Taste Like?

Now, let’s get to the most important part: the taste. Lalo currently offers two expressions—their Blanco and a limited-edition High Proof Blanco. Here’s my take on both:

Lalo Blanco

• Nose: Citrus, black pepper, and a hint of earthy agave.
• Palate: Bright, crisp, and refreshing. You’ll notice flavors of cooked agave, a touch of cinnamon, and a peppery finish. It’s smooth, easy to sip, and incredibly versatile.

Lalo High Proof Blanco

• Nose: More intense citrus and pepper notes, with a stronger vegetal aroma.
• Palate: Bold and spicy, with a warm, lingering finish. The higher proof amplifies the agave flavors, making it a standout for tequila enthusiasts.

Both expressions are additive-free, which is something I always look for in a quality tequila. The flavors are clean, authentic, and true to the agave.

My Conversation with Lalo González

During a recent event in New Orleans, I had the privilege of sitting down with Lalo González to talk about his vision for the brand. When I asked him why he decided to create his own tequila, he shared that it was about building his own legacy while honoring his family’s heritage.

“I wanted to give this a try,” he said. “I didn’t know if I’d be passionate about it, but I wanted to create something authentic and true to my roots.”

Lalo also emphasized the importance of focusing solely on Blanco tequila. “We’re trying to showcase the beauty of the agave plant in its purest form,” he explained. “It’s about simplicity and craftsmanship.”

How Does Lalo Compare to Don Julio?

As the grandson of Don Julio, Lalo González has big shoes to fill. Don Julio is one of the most iconic tequila brands in the world, known for its rich history and premium offerings. But Lalo Tequila isn’t trying to be Don Julio—it’s carving out its own path.

While Don Julio offers a wide range of expressions (Blanco, Reposado, Añejo, and more), Lalo is focused solely on Blanco tequila. This singular focus allows the brand to perfect its craft and deliver a product that’s both authentic and accessible.

In terms of flavor, Lalo’s Blanco is crisp, clean, and refreshing—perfect for sipping or mixing into cocktails. It’s a tequila that appeals to both newcomers and seasoned tequila drinkers alike.

Final Thoughts

Lalo Tequila is more than just a tequila—it’s a legacy. With its focus on Blanco tequila, clean flavors, and commitment to tradition, Lalo is a brand that’s making waves in the industry. Whether you’re a fan of Don Julio or just looking for a high-quality, additive-free tequila, Lalo is definitely worth a try.

So, the next time you’re browsing the tequila aisle, skip the familiar bottle of Don Julio and give Lalo a chance. You might just discover your new favorite tequila.

When it comes to celebrity-owned spirits, few have made as big a splash as Aviation Gin, co-owned by the charismatic Ryan Reynolds. Known for his wit, charm, and blockbuster movies, Reynolds has brought a lot of attention to this American gin. But is Aviation Gin worth your time and money? In this review, I’ll break down my experience tasting it three different ways to help you decide if it’s a bottle worth adding to your bar cart.

What Is Aviation Gin?

It was originally created in 2006 in Portland, Oregon, and is marketed as an American dry gin. While it had a modest following initially, its popularity skyrocketed in 2018 when Ryan Reynolds became a part owner. Since then, it’s been everywhere—TV commercials, social media, and even memes.

The gin is reasonably priced, with a 750ml bottle typically costing around $22. The bottle itself is sleek and stylish, with an old-timey, pre-Prohibition vibe that I really like. It’s the kind of bottle that stands out on a shelf without being overly flashy.

Tasting Aviation Gin: Three Ways

To give you a well-rounded review, I decided to try it in three different ways: neat, in a gin and tonic, and in a classic Bee’s Knees cocktail. Here’s how it held up in each application.

1. Neat (On Its Own)

• Nose: Subtle juniper with a dry, clean aroma.
• Palate: Very dry, with minimal florality and a light, almost neutral flavor profile.

While gin isn’t typically sipped neat, Aviation Gin isn’t unpleasant on its own. It’s smooth and easy to drink, but it lacks the bold juniper or botanical punch that many gin enthusiasts (myself included) look for.

2. Gin and Tonic

• Mix: 1.5 oz Aviation Gin, Fever Tree Tonic, lime wedge.
• Taste: Refreshing and light, but the gin’s subtle flavor gets a bit lost in the tonic.

The Aviation Gin and Tonic is a solid, easy-to-drink option. However, if you prefer a gin with more floral or juniper-forward notes, this might feel a bit underwhelming. That said, it’s still a refreshing and enjoyable cocktail.

3. Bee’s Knees Cocktail

• Mix: 2 oz Aviation Gin, 0.75 oz honey syrup, 0.75 oz fresh lemon juice.
• Taste: The gin’s dry profile gets overshadowed by the lemon and honey, making it feel a bit lost in the mix.

While the Bee’s Knees is a delicious cocktail, Aviation Gin’s subtlety doesn’t shine as brightly here. I’d prefer a gin with a stronger flavor profile to stand up to the other ingredients.

My Final Thoughts on Aviation Gin

So, is Aviation Gin worth it? Here’s my take:

• For the Price: At around $22, it is a decent value. It’s not the most complex or bold gin out there, but it’s smooth, easy to drink, and versatile.
• For Beginners: If you’re new to gin or prefer lighter, less juniper-forward spirits, Aviation is a great starting point.
• For Ryan Reynolds Fans: Let’s be honest—part of the appeal is supporting Ryan Reynolds. If you’re a fan, you’re not going to hate this gin. It’s perfectly serviceable and makes for a fun conversation starter.

That said, if you’re a gin aficionado like me, you might find Aviation a bit lacking in depth. For a similar price point, I’d recommend trying Scapegrace or St. George’s Gin, both of which offer more robust and complex flavor profiles.

Should You Buy Ryan Reynold’s Aviation Gin?

If you’re looking for an affordable, easy-drinking gin that’s perfect for casual cocktails or sipping on a warm evening, Aviation Gin is a solid choice. It’s not going to blow your mind, but it’s a reliable option that won’t break the bank.

However, if you’re after a gin with bold botanicals and a more traditional flavor profile, you might want to explore other options. At the end of the day, Aviation Gin is a 6 or 7 out of 10 for me—good, but not great.

If you’re a spirits enthusiast, you’ve probably heard of Cachaça, Brazil’s national spirit. But did you know that it is one of the most varied and complex spirits on the planet? With over 28 different types of indigenous woods used for aging and a wide range of flavor profiles influenced by Brazil’s diverse climates, Cachaça offers a world of possibilities for both drinkers and bartenders. In this article, I’ll dive deep into what makes it so unique, why it’s worth exploring, and how you can incorporate it into your cocktail repertoire.

What Is Cachaça?

Cachaça is a distilled spirit made from fresh sugarcane juice, giving it a grassy, earthy flavor profile that’s often compared to high-quality tequila. Unlike rum, which is typically made from molasses (a byproduct of sugar production), It is crafted directly from the juice of pressed sugarcane. This results in a spirit that’s brighter, more vegetal, and uniquely Brazilian.

Fun fact: Cachaça predates rum by about 150 years. Portuguese settlers began distilling it in Brazil as early as the 1500s, making it one of the oldest spirits in the Americas.

Why Cachaça Is So Unique

What sets Cachaça apart from other spirits is its incredible diversity. This diversity comes from two key factors:

1. Terroir: Where the Sugarcane Grows

Brazil is the fifth-largest country in the world, with climates ranging from rainforests and deserts to valleys and mountains. The terroir—where the sugarcane is grown—plays a huge role in shaping the flavor of the final spirit. For example:

• Sugarcane grown in the rainforest might have a more tropical, fruity profile.
• Sugarcane from arid regions might yield a drier, earthier spirit.

2. Aging in Indigenous Woods

While most spirits are aged in oak barrels, Cachaça can be aged in over 28 different types of indigenous Brazilian woods, each imparting unique flavors, colors, and textures. This makes Cachaça one of the most versatile spirits for aging, with a near-limitless range of flavor combinations.

Exploring the Different Types of Cachaça

At my restaurant, we have over 20 different bottles of Cachaça, and each one tells a unique story. Here are some of the most notable varieties and the woods that define them:

1. Unaged (Silver)

• Flavor Profile: Grassy, vegetal, and slightly harsh.
• Best For: Classic Caipirinhas and cocktails.
  Unaged Cachaça is the purest expression of the spirit, showcasing the raw, fresh flavors of sugarcane. It’s the go-to choice for Brazil’s national cocktail, the Caipirinha.

2. Oak-Aged

• Flavor Profile: Vanilla, caramel, and a smooth mouthfeel.
• Example: Weber Haus Premium Gold (aged 4 years in French oak).
  Oak is the most common wood used for aging Cachaça, and for good reason—it imparts classic, well-rounded flavors that are familiar to fans of bourbon or cognac.

3. Amburana-Aged

• Flavor Profile: Sweet, smooth, and slightly spicy.
• Example: Avuá Amburana.
  Amburana (also known as Brazilian teak) is a popular indigenous wood that reduces acidity and adds a sweet, spicy complexity to the spirit.

4. Balsamo-Aged

• Flavor Profile: Clove, anise, and a sharper, spicier finish.
• Example: Avuá Balsamo.
  Balsam wood adds a unique spiciness, making it a great choice for cocktails that need a little extra kick.

5. Ipê-Aged

• Flavor Profile: Medium acidity, smooth, and slightly floral.
• Example: Ipê Cachaça.
  Aged in yellow wood (Ipê), this Cachaça has a golden hue and a soft, approachable flavor profile.

6. Jequitibá-Aged

• Flavor Profile: Subtle vanilla, smooth, and elegant.
• Example: Avuá Jequitibá Rosa.
  Jequitibá wood imparts a light, delicate flavor, making it perfect for sipping or crafting refined cocktails.

7. Zebrawood-Aged

• Flavor Profile: Caramel, dark vanilla, and fruity notes.
• Example: Novo Fogo Tanager.
  Zebrawood gives this Cachaça a striking reddish color and a rich, complex flavor profile. It’s one of my personal favorites and works beautifully in cocktails like the Sazerac.

8. Brazil Nut Wood-Aged

• Flavor Profile: Smooth, nutty, and chestnut-brown in color.
• Example: Novo Fogo Graciosa.
  Aged in Brazil nut wood, this Cachaça is incredibly smooth and perfect for sipping neat over a large ice cube.

Why Cachaça Belongs in Your Bar

As a Brazilian bartender, I’m passionate about sharing the beauty of Cachaça with the world. Its versatility and complexity make it a fantastic spirit for both sipping and mixing. Here’s why you should consider adding some to your bar:

• Endless Cocktail Possibilities: From classic Caipirinhas to tiki-style drinks, Cachaça’s diverse flavor profiles open up a world of creative cocktail opportunities.
• Aging Potential: With over 28 types of indigenous woods used for aging, Cachaça offers a level of variety that’s unmatched in the spirits world.
• Cultural Significance: Cachaça is more than just a spirit—it’s a celebration of Brazilian heritage and craftsmanship.

Final Thoughts

Cachaça is a spirit that deserves far more attention than it gets. Its grassy, earthy base and the incredible variety of flavors imparted by indigenous woods make it one of the most exciting spirits to explore. Whether you’re a bartender looking to experiment with new flavors or a spirits enthusiast eager to try something different, Cachaça is a must-try.

So, the next time you’re at a bar or liquor store, skip the usual suspects and reach for a bottle of Cachaça. You might just discover your new favorite spirit.

Cheers to Cachaça—a true taste of Brazil’s rich and diverse culture!

If you’re a tequila drinker, chances are you’ve heard of Casamigos. Founded by George Clooney and his business partner, this celebrity-backed tequila has become a staple in bars and liquor stores worldwide. But here’s the truth: Casamigos isn’t as good as its marketing makes it seem. Packed with additives and often leaving drinkers with nasty hangovers, it’s time to ditch Casamigos and explore better options.

In this article, I’ll introduce you to four incredible tequilas that are additive-free, well-crafted, and offer far better value for your money. Whether you’re sipping neat or mixing into cocktails, these tequilas will blow Casamigos out of the water.

Why You Should Stop Drinking Casamigos Tequila

Before we dive into the alternatives, let’s talk about why Casamigos falls short:

• Additives: Casamigos is known for using additives to enhance its flavor, masking the true quality of the tequila.
• Overpriced: Despite its celebrity endorsement, Casamigos doesn’t deliver the quality you’d expect for its price.
• Declining Quality: Since being acquired by Diageo (a massive alcohol corporation), many fans have noticed a drop in quality.

If you’re looking for a tequila that’s authentic, additive-free, and crafted with care, here are four brands you should try instead.

1. Cimarron Tequila

• Price: Under $30 (Blanco and Reposado)
• Why It’s Great: Cimarron is my go-to budget tequila. It’s made traditionally, 100% additive-free, and offers incredible value for its price.
• Flavor Profile:
  • Blanco: Crisp, bright, and perfect for margaritas or mixed drinks.
  • Reposado: Creamy with natural vanilla notes from barrel aging, yet still packed with agave flavor.

Cimarron is a fantastic alternative to Casamigos, especially if you’re looking for a high-quality tequila that won’t break the bank.

2. El Tequileno

• Price: Around $40 (slightly more than Casamigos)
• Why It’s Great: El Tequileno is crafted by a historic family in Mexico and is 100% additive-free. It’s a step up in quality without a huge price jump.
• Flavor Profile:
  • Blanco: Bright, fruity, and bursting with agave flavor. Perfect for sipping or cocktails.
  • Reposado and Añejo: Rich, complex, and worth every penny.

El Tequileno is a brand I can’t recommend enough. It’s a shining example of what tequila should be—authentic, flavorful, and made with pride.

3. Mijenta Tequila

• Price: Around $50
• Why It’s Great: Mijenta is a sustainable, eco-conscious brand run by a female master distiller. Their tequilas are additive-free and beautifully crafted.
• Flavor Profile:
  • Blanco: Smooth, bright, and slightly fruity. Great for sipping or mixing.
  • Reposado: Rich and complex, with natural wood notes from aging. A true sipping tequila.

Mijenta is perfect for those who care about sustainability and want a tequila that’s as good for the planet as it is for your palate.

4. Tequila Ocho

• Price: Around 48–48–50
• Why It’s Great: Tequila Ocho is a premium, additive-free tequila that’s widely available and consistently excellent.
• Flavor Profile:
  • Blanco: Bright, floral, and full of agave flavor.
  • Reposado: Balanced and elegant, with subtle oak and vanilla notes.

Tequila Ocho is a fantastic choice for those willing to spend a little more for a truly exceptional tequila.

Why These Tequilas Are Better Than Casamigos Tequila

All four of these tequilas share a few key qualities that make them superior to Casamigos:

1. Additive-Free: Unlike Casamigos, these tequilas are made without artificial flavors or sweeteners, allowing the natural agave flavors to shine.
2. Authentic Craftsmanship: Each brand is committed to traditional production methods and high-quality ingredients.
3. Better Value: While some are slightly more expensive than Casamigos, the quality and flavor you get are well worth the investment.

Final Thoughts on Casamigos Tequila

It’s time to stop settling for overhyped, additive-laden tequilas like Casamigos. Whether you choose Cimarron, El Tequileno, Mijenta, or Tequila Ocho, you’ll be supporting brands that prioritize quality, authenticity, and craftsmanship.

So, the next time you’re shopping for tequila, skip the celebrity endorsements and reach for one of these incredible alternatives. Your taste buds (and your hangover) will thank you.

Cheers to better tequila!

When it comes to luxury tequila, Clase Azul is often the first name that comes to mind. With its stunning ceramic bottle, ornate detailing, and signature bell on top, it’s a showstopper on any bar shelf. But is Clase Azul Tequila truly worth the $180 price tag, or are you just paying for the bottle? In this article, we’ll dive into why Clase Azul might not live up to its reputation and explore some incredible, additive-free alternatives that deliver superior taste and quality for half the cost.

The Problem with Clase Azul Tequila

Let’s start with the obvious: the bottle. Clase Azul’s packaging is undeniably beautiful. The tall, hand-painted ceramic bottle is a work of art, designed to stand out on top shelves. It’s a marketing masterpiece, but unfortunately, the contents inside don’t quite match the exterior’s elegance.

When you take a sip of Clase Azul, you’re met with an overwhelmingly sweet flavor profile. It’s been described as tasting like “fake cotton candy” or “vanilla syrup,” with almost no hint of the agave-forward taste that defines a great tequila. For a spirit that costs $180, you’d expect a complex, refined experience—not something that feels more like a dessert liqueur.

The bottom line? Clase Azul is a case of style over substance. If you’re looking for a tequila that prioritizes flavor and craftsmanship over aesthetics, there are far better options out there.

Top Alternatives to Clase Azul Tequila

If you’re ready to explore tequilas that deliver exceptional taste without the unnecessary sweetness or sky-high price tag, here are three standout recommendations:

1. Don Fulano Reposado

• Price Range: $65–80
• Why It’s Great: Don Fulano is a brand with over 140 years of agave-growing experience. Their tequila is additive-free, meaning you get a pure, authentic taste. The reposado offers a perfect balance of caramel, black pepper spice, and roasted agave flavors. It’s smooth, complex, and incredibly satisfying.
• Tasting Notes: Caramel, black pepper, roasted agave, with a lingering finish that keeps you coming back for more.

2. G4 Tequila Añejo

• Price Range: $80–120
• Why It’s Great: G4 Tequila is crafted by Felipe Camarena, one of the most respected distillers in the tequila world. Made at the El Pandillo distillery, G4 is known for its traditional production methods and commitment to quality. The añejo is aged to perfection, offering a rich and nuanced flavor profile.
• Tasting Notes: Roasted agave, caramel, dark chocolate, and a hint of spice. It’s smooth, balanced, and perfect for sipping.

3. Cascahuín Reposado

• Price Range: $95–100
• Why It’s Great: Cascahuín is a benchmark for well-made, additive-free tequila. It’s verified by Tequila Matchmaker, ensuring its authenticity and quality. This reposado is a masterclass in balance, with prominent agave flavors complemented by spicy and oaky notes.
• Tasting Notes: Agave-forward with hints of spice, minerality, and oak. It’s a tequila that truly showcases the essence of what tequila should taste like.

Honorable Mention: Fortaleza

If you’re willing to splurge on a truly exceptional tequila, Fortaleza is the gold standard. Often referred to as the “crème de la crème” of tequila, Fortaleza is a small-batch, artisanal brand that’s beloved by enthusiasts. While it can be hard to find, it’s worth the effort for its unparalleled quality and flavor.

Why Additive-Free Tequila Matters

One of the biggest issues with Clase Azul is its reliance on additives to achieve its overly sweet flavor. Additives like artificial sweeteners, glycerin, and flavorings are often used to mask imperfections or create a more “approachable” taste. However, these additives detract from the natural flavors of the agave and can leave you with a tequila that feels artificial and unbalanced.

The alternatives listed above—Don Fulano, G4, and Cascahuín—are all additive-free, meaning they rely on traditional methods and high-quality ingredients to create their flavor profiles. This results in a more authentic, enjoyable drinking experience.

Final Thoughts on Clase Azul Tequila

While Clase Azul Tequila may look impressive on your bar cart, its overly sweet, artificial taste and high price tag make it a poor choice for true tequila enthusiasts. Instead, opt for one of the additive-free alternatives listed above. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also enjoy a tequila that’s rich in flavor, complexity, and craftsmanship.

Whether you choose Don Fulano, G4, or Cascahuín, you’re guaranteed a superior tequila experience that celebrates the true essence of agave. So next time you’re out or shopping for a bottle, skip the fancy bottle with the bell and go for something that truly delivers on taste.

Don Julio Tequila is one of the most recognizable names in the spirits world. Founded in 1942 by Don Julio González, the brand has a storied history and is often credited with revolutionizing the tequila industry. However, since its acquisition by Diageo, a global spirits conglomerate, many tequila enthusiasts argue that Don Julio has lost its way. If you’re wondering whether Don Julio is still worth your money—or if there are better options out there—this article is for you. We’ll explore why Don Julio might not live up to its legacy and introduce you to three superior tequilas that deliver exceptional quality at the same price point.

The Problem with Don Julio Tequila

Don Julio’s legacy is undeniable. The brand played a pivotal role in elevating tequila from a rustic spirit to a premium product. However, since its sale to Diageo, many argue that the brand has prioritized mass production and marketing over quality and craftsmanship.

Take Don Julio Blanco, for example. Priced between 45and45and55, it’s one of the most widely available tequilas on the market. But how does it taste? Unfortunately, the flavor falls flat. The agave notes are muted, the spice is almost nonexistent, and the overall profile is overly sweet for a Blanco tequila. Instead of the robust, complex flavors that define a great tequila, Don Julio Blanco tastes watered-down and uninspired.

In short, Don Julio seems to be trading on its name and history rather than delivering a product that lives up to its reputation.

Top Alternatives to Don Julio Tequila

If you’re looking for tequilas that offer superior flavor, authenticity, and craftsmanship—without breaking the bank—here are three standout recommendations:

1. Siete Leguas Reposado

• Price Range: 45–45–65
• Why It’s Great: Siete Leguas is a brand with deep roots in tequila history. Founded just 10 years after Don Julio, it’s one of the few brands that has stayed true to its origins. Siete Leguas was even the original producer of Patrón before it became a global brand. This reposado is additive-free and offers a rich, complex flavor profile.
• Tasting Notes: Roasted agave, black pepper, caramel, oak, and a hint of citrus. It’s smooth, balanced, and perfect for sipping or mixing.

2. Volans Blanco

• Price Range: Around $55
• Why It’s Great: Volans is a newer brand, but it’s made at the same distillery as the highly acclaimed Hacienda El Pandillo, which produces tequilas like G4 and Terralta. Volans is additive-free and offers a unique flavor profile that stands out in the crowded tequila market.
• Tasting Notes: Roasted agave, minerality, a savory saltiness, and hints of spice and citrus. It’s incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with seafood or cocktails.

3. Lalo Blanco

• Price Range: 45–45–55
• Why It’s Great: Lalo is a brand created by Eduardo “Lalo” González, the grandson of Don Julio González. Lalo’s mission is to return to the roots of traditional tequila-making, honoring his family’s legacy while prioritizing quality and authenticity. This Blanco is additive-free and delivers a pure, agave-forward experience.
• Tasting Notes: Roasted agave, black pepper, citrus zest, earthy cinnamon, and a touch of vanilla. It’s perfect for sipping neat or crafting a killer margarita.

Why Additive-Free Tequila Matters

One of the biggest issues with modern Don Julio is its reliance on additives. Additives like artificial sweeteners, glycerin, and flavorings are often used to mask imperfections or create a more “approachable” taste. However, these additives detract from the natural flavors of the agave and can leave you with a tequila that feels artificial and unbalanced.

The alternatives listed above—Siete Leguas, Volans, and Lalo—are all additive-free, meaning they rely on traditional methods and high-quality ingredients to create their flavor profiles. This results in a more authentic, enjoyable drinking experience.

Final Thoughts

While Don Julio Tequila may have a legendary name, its current offerings don’t live up to the brand’s storied history. Instead of settling for a tequila that’s trading on its past, opt for one of the additive-free alternatives listed above. Not only will you get better flavor and quality, but you’ll also support brands that are staying true to the art of tequila-making.

Whether you choose Siete Leguas, Volans, or Lalo, you’re guaranteed a superior tequila experience that celebrates the true essence of agave. So next time you’re out or shopping for a bottle, skip the mass-produced option and go for something that truly delivers on taste.