The recent surge in the popularity of tequila-based drinks is hard to miss. Once relegated to the realm of shooters and dreaded hangovers, tequila has now captured the hearts of drinkers everywhere. It comes as no surprise that tequila, currently the second most popular spirit in America, is finally stepping into the limelight. Like bourbon, another beloved North American original that has experienced a revival, tequila owes its newfound fame to the emergence of numerous high-quality brands in the market. Premium and ultra-premium tequilas hailing from Mexico have completely revolutionized the way people perceive this spirit. While still a favorite for party drinks, tequila has swiftly gained recognition as a top-tier sipping liquor and a key ingredient for creating unforgettable cocktails.
The International Wine & Spirits Competition, a renowned event in the world of spirits, recently unveiled the winners of its 2024 blind taste-testing round. Among the 107 bottles that received a Gold Outstanding Medal, two were tequilas. For those in search of the finest tequila available, the award-winning selections are worth exploring. Notably, both of these exceptional tequilas are readily accessible for purchase.
Hailing from the legendary La Rojeña Distillery, the oldest active distillery in Jalisco, is the esteemed 1800 Milenio Extra Añejo Tequila. Established in limited quantities in 2000, this tequila has consistently impressed judges and enthusiasts with each annual release. The roots of 1800 Milenio run deep in Mexico, produced among the same company that crafts Jose Cuervo and Gran Centenario. Introduced in 1975, 1800 Tequila was among the first brands dedicated to producing high-quality tequilas, reshaping public perceptions of the spirit. The Milenio Extra Añejo variant, crafted with 100% blue Weber agave cultivated on family-owned estates in Tequila, Mexico, undergoes a meticulous aging process. After two years in oak barrels, the tequila ages briefly in French Oak Cognac barrels, resulting in a well-balanced and smooth flavor profile. Priced around $249 per bottle, 1800 Milenio Extra Añejo Tequila is a testament to exquisite craftsmanship.
The judges bestowed high praise upon the spirit, noting, “Lucious stone fruit and red apple aromas lead to a harmonious blend of alcohol and sweetness on the palate. A delightfully deep mouthfeel with a lingering spice-driven finish.”
In 2004, Lunazul Tequila was launched by Francisco Beckmann, a seventh-generation descendant of Mexico’s oldest tequila-making family. By establishing Tierra de Agaves, a small-batch distillery situated in the family’s private agave plantation, Beckmann aimed to introduce the world to the intricate flavors of tequila. The result was a line of award-winning tequilas celebrated for their robust taste. Lunazul Primero Humoso Blanco Tequila stands out for its unique blend of smokiness reminiscent of Mezcal and the smoothness of a traditional Blanco. The word “humoso” signifies smokiness in Spanish, indicating the tequila’s distinctive character. By incorporating mesquite wood-smoked agave with fresh blue Weber Agave, Lunazul has crafted a smoked tequila unlike any other. Priced at $29.99 per bottle, Lunazul Primero Humoso Blanco Tequila offers a one-of-a-kind experience for aficionados and cocktail enthusiasts alike.
According to the judges, the tequila presents “Fresh grass and peppermint creaminess with a whisper of smoke. Rounded and earthy, showcasing nuances of root with tropical and citrus aromatics.”
Overall, the evolving landscape of the tequila industry reflects a growing appreciation for quality craftsmanship and innovative flavors. As top-tier tequilas continue to captivate consumers, it is clear that the spirit has transcended its traditional reputation, emerging as a sophisticated choice for discerning drinkers.