Don Julio Tequila Tasting

Don Julio Tequila Tasting: A Journey Through Five Exceptional Varieties

I had the rare opportunity to experience a tasting of Don Julio Tequila’s five distinguished varieties—Blanco, Reposado, Añejo, 1942, and REAL—at The Dundee Dell in Omaha, Nebraska. Known for its impressive collection of rare and hard-to-find spirits, The Dundee Dell boasts the renowned “Great Wall of Scotch,” a selection one might expect to see in cities like New York or Los Angeles rather than in the heart of the Midwest.

Exploring Don Julio Tequila

Don Julio Tequila has a comprehensive website filled with valuable information about the brand’s history, the tequila-making process, and the legacy of its founder. The site provides an immersive experience, offering visuals of the agave fields and distillery, giving visitors a virtual tour of the craft behind each bottle. Don Julio Tequila Tasting

Each of the five Don Julio tequila varieties has its own distinct character and is suited for different drinking experiences:

• Blanco – Known for its crisp and clean citrus notes, Blanco tequila is commonly used in cocktails. It has a subtle black pepper undertone that defines Don Julio’s signature flavor without being overpowering.
• Reposado – Unlike Blanco, which is often mixed in cocktails, Reposado adds an extra layer of spice, making it an excellent choice for margaritas. It delivers warm cinnamon and dark cocoa notes, striking a balance between smoothness and a bold tequila edge.
• Añejo – Añejo is designed for sipping, whether neat, chilled, or on the rocks. Its smooth vanilla essence is complemented by subtle cherry notes and rich chocolate undertones, making it an ideal choice for those who appreciate a refined tequila experience.
• 1942 – This aged tequila offers a smooth, well-balanced taste with hints of vanilla, caramel, and toffee, combined with a smoky and slightly earthy finish. While personal preferences may vary, 1942 is highly regarded for its rich and complex flavor profile.
• REAL – This premium tequila stands out for its luxurious texture and remarkable depth. With a consistency reminiscent of fine cognac, REAL delivers a refined vanilla aroma and eliminates the sharp edges typically associated with tequila. Its quality makes it a tequila meant solely for sipping, a necessity given its price tag of approximately $300 per bottle.

A Reflection on Don Julio Tequila

Don Julio’s tequilas are a testament to quality craftsmanship and a company deeply committed to its heritage. The brand has successfully made its way onto liquor store shelves across the country, an achievement not all premium tequilas have accomplished. While markets are flooded with vodka and rum, the presence of high-quality tequila like Don Julio is refreshing. It rightfully earns its place on the top shelf, standing as a symbol of excellence in the world of spirits.