Espoln Tequila, $32+, Funnyman Kevin Hart teamed up with Juan Domingo Beckmann, an 11th-generation tequila maker, to create Gran Coramino. Give it a try! They are a reality, and remember it's legal, but only up to 1% of total volume, on additives of: caramel color, oak extract, glycerin and "sugar-based syrup" (like agave nectar), but not necessarily ONLY from agave. Tequila Patrn, for example, has a NOM of 1492. 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. .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. Dulce Vida, $28+, This rare, handcrafted extra aejo is a complex sipping spirit with layers of flavor to unravel. In addition to auditing the production, we ask a lot of questions and perform a sensorial analysis throughout various stages of the tequila-making process. Although trusting people is always a gamble, we really do have some very knowledgeable contract-brand owners, that know exactly what is in their products, have integrity, and are way more involved than some others. $46 at Reserve Bar. El Pandillo (G4, Terralta, etc.) 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. I want to teach others what I know about ALL Agave spirits, keeping it simple and fun! Not flaunting rapper-sized bank accounts? So very helpful! Why? Thanks, The List: Best Tequila, According To Experts. But if youre looking to take a celebratory shot, then blanco is a good option, says Gonzlez. Great for sipping, Siempre is incredibly smooth and naturally sweet (I.e. That gives the Rosa a subtle pink hue, and a sweet yet dry finish. We want to hear it. We can smell what The Rocks drinking, and its good! Cincoro Tequila produces five tequilas: blanco, reposado, aejo, extra aejo and the newest addition to their collectionCincoro Goldwhich blends the best of all four of their other varieties into one ultra-premium tequila. Pasote and El Tesoro de Don Felipe are both listed as an additive-free distilleries, but their respective XAs are not marked as Additive-free. Casamigos, $55+, The recipe for Tequila Cazadores was first developed way back in 1922 by a hardworking farmer in Arandas, Mexico. The Best New-School Tequila Brands. 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? 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.. Now confused. The Spruce Eats / Lecia Landis. 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. One of the top-selling brands in the world (it clocks in at sixth! Tequila Casa Del Sol. There are four total categories of additives according to the Consejo Regulador . Im verifying that any blanco I get, say a Calle 23 Criollo, can be assumed to be Additive-free, despite not being marked as such on the Matchmaker site? Servidumbre De Paso a Las Agujas 4SO , Col. Las Agujas , Zaropan Jalisco CP 4S200 . Thank you for your time and commitment. Its one of only a handful of 100% de Agave Gold tequilas. Now thats a game changer APP that would get you many more subscribers. I love your reviews? 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. The problem with additives as I see it, is even though it may be legal at 1%, it's also 'cheating' and unnecessary, and seems many brands don't act like they're using additives, as long as it's only the legal 1%. Here is the best tequila for no hangover that is a must-have for every celebration. When will the list be available on the app? Cazcabel. Interestingly, another brand that is 100% additive-free told me "rarely will a distiller commit to never using color, because sometime in the future, there could be a day that some tequila comes off the barrels lighter, and distillers would rather add a couple drops of organic caramel coloring instead of jeopardizing a stock of tequila that has inconsistent color on the shelf." The bottles, meantime, are like a work of art, inspired by traditional Mexican colors and motifs. High-quality tequila producers will use 100%, but others may use things like sugar or molasses to make their product cheaper, adds Roy. So who knows what a distillery may do to 'enhance' a contract brands juice, for their own convenience. Brands aren't required to put additives on the label, and even 100 percent agave tequilas commonly use them. 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. View On Drizly View On Caskers. $149.99. Usually in this purest form of tequila, you can taste the care given to the elaboration process of any brand. This is the standard tequila youll see in cocktails due to its versatility, he adds. 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. Can anyone recommend some of the sweeter non additive, non Blanco tequilas? FERMENTATION: Stainless steel tanks, 100% agave, Open-air fermentation, Fermentation without fibers. I will need to check to see if our database needs to be updated to reflect that. No, this is good tequila because it's a crisp, spicy, flavorful, and very versatile spirit. Organic tequila usually means that the agaves used were grown organically. First sip I was like wow this stuff is sweet. 2009-2022, S2F Online, Inc. - Taste Tequila and Tequila Matchmaker are property of S2F Online, Inc. When you taste too much vanilla, and we call that a 'vanilla bomb', that often means extra vanilla extract powder was added. All of Patrns tequilas are handcrafted in Jalisco, Mexico at Hacienda Patrn using the finest quality ingredients (no additives here!). Roca Patrn Silver ($69) Emphatically agave-scented, this is made with the traditional tahona method, using a two-ton volcanic rock to crush the roasted pias. I do believe it's safe to say that products made by the quality brands mentioned below on my favorites list, seem to be completely additive free. Whether youre at an A-list after party or just chilling at home, nothing beats a Casamigos and soda for a refreshing, celeb-approved drink. LALO only makes one tequilaan additive-free blanco. They can change the taste, by making the tequila sweeter with sugar based syrups or "jarabes", which can also include flavors and aromas, and this isn't just agave syrup, but a number of sugar based products, like cane sugar, aspartame, corn syrup, sucralose (Splenda), and stevia. Sometimes using french oak barrels may make you 'think' there are additives, because it can taster very sweet, even overly sweet. We have to stop thinking a dark and rich color is always the real thing, and start thinking about realistic, clean, additive free tequila, regardless of the color or lack of color. In fact, many brands add artificial sugars or sweeteners to their tequila, which may taste good at first, but will leave you with a nasty hangover the next day. Silver (or Blanco) tequila is probably the most well-known, and it typically appears perfectly clear in the bottle. $159.99. On Sale. 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. The reposado, with an ABV of 40%, is aged for four months in ruby port wine casks that give it a signature pink color. Is there something that taste like theirs which is better for you? An undertone of sweet cooked agave recalls this tequilas fresh Blanco roots. Think of this as the cognac of tequila best for sipping neat, or with an ice cube. Founded by three best friends in Canada, Siempre combines a unique flavor profile (think notes of pepper, sea salt/brine, sweet berries and candied citrus) with a traditional tequila making process using 100% agave. Essences or flavorings are still additives, and these can include vanilla or herbs used to alter or create a flavor. I'm a Tequila/Agave Connoisseur, Taster & Reviewer from Long Island, NY. They blame us the consumer, as they say WE need to see the same color consistency each time we purchase a brand, and we would be 'alarmed' if it looked different. Spirit of the Earth, he says. Patrn, one of most well-known tequila brands in the world, actually offers a diverse portfolio of authentic tequilas that you wont find in nightclubs or seedy bars. Region of Origin: All tequila comes from the Tequila region of Mexico, and in order for a spirit to call itself tequila, it must be distilled from agave plants grown in that region. The . Do you have any plans to verify if Don Julio is additive-free? March 3, 2023 (NOM 1579) -6 marks. This is just artificial flavor, and another trick being presented to the tequila drinking community. A new entry into the tequila market, El Bandido Yankee launched in 2021 by former NFL player Jim Bob Morris and restaurateur and NHL Hall of Fame Hockey Player Chris Chelios. Popular Brands. When aejo tequila is done right, its at once rich and flavorful, smooth yet complex. I texted, emailed, filled out forms in some cases, and attempted to call to get a statement. Clooney, and co-founder Rande Gerber, say they wanted to make, the best-tasting, smoothest tequila that didnt have to be covered up with salt or lime.. Although not technically tequila, Revels Avila should be on every tequila and mezcal fans radar. The caramel, vanilla and wood notes are strong, but thankfully the agave isn't lost in the aging. ABV: 46.3%. The Champagne yeast we use allows the Highland agave to shine, showcasing the cooked agave flavor up front with fruity and floral notes following. Gonzlezs family has been in the tequila business for generations (his grandfather was the legendary Don Julio Gonzlez), so you know he knows his stuff! Good stuff!! It will typically taste sweeter and more refreshing, with a smooth, silky finish. Maybe Distiller could help for you? Youve also probably seen flavored tequila, which is tequila infused with things like coconut, lime, strawberry or jalapeno. Thanks. In fact, the grandson of founder Don Felipe Camarena oversees production today. YOU and only you will have to make that decision, to believe these brands by tasting and trusting them. 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. With 11 generations of tequila-makers to their name, Maestro Dobel is no stranger to the spirits market, with an entire portfolio of smooth, easy-drinking tequilas available everywhere from country clubs to the finest restaurants in the world. Adolfo Murillo of 'Alquimia' said "I have always worked hard to stay true to the tradition of tequila and the way it was meant to be made, so if my bottles say 100% agave, it does not mean "99%, because the CRT says it's ok". And if its a Tommys-style margarita, even better, says Justin Lavenue, owner/operator and co-founder of The Roosevelt Room in Austin, Texas. You can read more about our methods and program goals, here. Don Abraham Organic Blanco Tequila. Is Patron no longer additive free as of 10/2022? 9. Just mix 1.5 ounces of tequila, 1 ounce of Cointreau or Triple Sec, and a squeeze of fresh lime. Want to know more? The legal requirement is at least 51% blue agave. Patrn is the world's number one super-premium tequila brand to receive the verification. Do you have plans or know of any plans to do something similar with Agave Spirits? The result is a collection of blanco, reposado and aejo spirits that are made from 100% blue agave and perfectly capture summer in a bottle. Our top pick is the Tequila Ocho Plata La Caada 2022, a single-estate tequila that's perfect for sipping. Best tequila blanco: Siembra Azul Blanco. Siembra Azul Blanco is an exemplary tequila blanco from the highlands of Jalisco. 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. Guillermo Erickson Sauza of 'Fortaleza' told me "we don't add any additives, and we don't make tequila for anyone", and I was told that 'Siete Leguas' never uses any flavorings, colorings, or additives, as well as 'Tequila Caballito Cerrero' and San Matias. This list is small now, but I hope to add more brands if it is warranted. The additive-free spirit retails for $125.99 and is currently available for presale on ReserveBar. A small sip reveals aromas of roasted agave with woody notes, before the tequila opens up with hints of caramel, coconut and oak. Tequila Gran Diamante is an award-winning, ultra-premium tequila that's stirring up excitement on the spirits scene. Or is there a separate list for non-diffuser made tequilas? This ensures the freshest agave flavorand you can tell. 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." Nathan. This 'cutting corners' can reduce the quality of the tequila. Tequila Matchmaker There's a tequila for everyone. As far as alcohol goes, it's not a bad option. From now on, I may honestly just shop for tequilas that are on your list. Inspections are done on-site and can last from a few . It makes sensewith its sweet, smooth taste, tequila is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in margaritas and other yummy cocktails as well as sipped straight or over ice. This year's offering of . I wish something as concise was available for other agave spirits. Ive been out of the tequila world for many years, but loved the NOM look up to be able to see other tequilas that may have a similar profile. 2) We will eventually create this list within the app itself. 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. 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. Named after the Spanish word for diamond, Diamante was created with no additives. Sometimes youll see blanco tequila referred to as silver tequila. A complete one stop tequila review app/web site. 1. It has a smooth, even finish. We later learned that additives were indeed being used in blanco tequilas and that a loophole in the NORMA made this possible. The brand founders wanted to recreate the sense of wanderlust experienced by the surfers in the movie. Tequila's popularity has skyrocketed in recent years, and the top bottles now command cultish prices formerly reserved for the rarest of Scotches and small-batch bourbons. Can I assume that if the distillery is verified, that all of their products are free from additives? ok, but your 2018 post titled The Lowdown on Tequila Additives stated that was banned by the norma . 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. Its best sipped slow for a warm, inviting mouthfeel. Photo credit: Courtesy. When mixed together, both vodka and tequila can be a good option with coke zero. Eduardo Orendain of 'Arette' said "we are 100% additive free, and we don't use caramel and yes we do have color consistency problems because of this, where some batches are lighter or darker than others." . Making tequila requires thoughtful consideration of both legal and technical factors defining the spiritand many choices in the production process can have a tremendous impact on the final distillate. When it comes to flavor, Rodriguez says tequila can range from smooth and mellow, to a warmer and bolder profile. In fact, the brand is named for the breathtaking underground water systems that are unique to this region. 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.). Others gave similar statements, while others could have.. but would not. Adding additives and or color usually occurs towards the end of production before bottling, in the 'rectification'. :-). Others like Jose Hermosillo of Casa Noble told me "we use no additives, that is why we do the kosher certification." Pros. Reposado tequila is also aged but the aging process can be anywhere from two months to 11 months. Casa Del Sol. But that said, despite what . The rosado tequila is positioned as a daytime-friendly reposado, providing a high-quality option for afternoon sipping. Each bottle is hand-crafted and hand-painted, so no two are alike, making Clase Azul a great gift idea as well. 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"). Copyright 2023 Penske Business Media, LLC. Handcrafted using the richest Agave from the Highlands of Jalisco, JAJA Reposado's tasting notes consist of sweet maple, cooked agave, and toasted wood. I wish all things ingested would list ingredients. Another thing to look for aside: a four-digit number that represents each distillerys unique code. Its affordable, accessible and goes down easy. 100% Agave: Tequila comes from the agave plant, but not all tequilas are made with 100% agave sugar. Notes of pepper and vanilla balance the buttery profile along with hints of citrus. Don Julio 1942, $160, Back in 2019, basketball legend Michael Jordan launched Cincoro Tequila alongside a few other NBA ownersand in just three short years, the brand has sold a million and a half bottles and won more than 20 awards. It's made with 100 percent Blue Weber agave (i.e. Tequila producers also use some additives, like glycerin or sugar-based syrup, to change the mouthfeel or intensify the brand's sweetness. Ritual Beverage Company is entering the tequila market. Average Price: $115. and is there an app you prefer for Mezcal? Although it can be hard to taste for sure as these people are pros, and can add them in strategically in a very subtle way, I will say that in my opinion you would be VERY surprised to know the huge percentage of brands that must be using some additive in their tequila. JAJA is proudly additive free. Additives can greatly change the color (SEE ABOVE- again thanks to Taste Tequila), making the appearance of longer aging, with caramel coloring. Im just hell-bent, and Guys got the same passion.. The top five best-selling tequila brands run the gamut from budget picks to higher-end options. 1) No, some blancos definitely contain additives. And legend has it, the first margarita ever made featured Jose Cuervo. I just got your email today about your additive-free list and had to come check it out. The app can support any agave spirit, including mezcal. Our propietary matching algorithm uses nine different characteristics to find the best matches for you. As of January 2020, the below distilleries, some of which produce multiple tequila brands as designated by their NOM assignment, have been credited as verified additive-free. At over $100, this is a true premium spirit, with a bottle and flavor profile worthy of its price. 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. 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. I'm a Tequila/Agave Connoisseur, Taster & Reviewer. Region: Jalisco, Mexico | ABV: 40% | Tasting Notes: White pepper, Agave, Mint. If after a few seconds the tequila maintains its consistency and your hands feel dry as they would from a few drops of water, then you likely have an additive-free tequila. 3. Grover, would you consider adding a score column to the list in the future? Whats more, they were one of the first brands to use certified organic agave, and theyre committed to doing good for the environment. It's also free of common allergens. Best value tequila: Corralejo Reposado. Its like a fine wine thats been aged to perfection. So keep in mind the above mentioned brands that 'claim' to be 100% additive free may be just that, and most are high quality and fine tasting brands that I enjoy myself. 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. . Espoln Blanco Tequila. Espolon Blanco Tequila. Thank you for the clarification. Thats why I stick to and fully endorse the products from NOM1146 . Choose from blanco, reposado and aejo for sipping solo or creating incredible cocktails. I mean its a decent app, I would just rather keep it all in TM. Hard to believe, but I'm told it's very possible. Taste: Ritual Zero-Proof's Tequila Alternative is golden in color, suggesting it's an alternative to reposado tequila. 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. The tequila is made from 100 percent all-natural, fully matured Blue Weber agave artisanally produced without additives or diffusers. Each tequila has its own "flavor fingerprint," and each person has his or her own flavor preferences. However, we need someone willing to be the curator of each spirit. Casa Noble, $45+, Theres a reason why this is the best-selling tequila in the world. 1- either stick with a producer who makes aged tequilas to YOUR liking, regardless if it's heavy caramel, vanilla, overly smooth and overly sweet, very dark and rich, oily and very oaky without caring if they are obviously manipulated or not. BONUS: Use code RS20 to get $20 off your order at Drizly.com. According to 'THEM', these brands are 100% ADDITIVE FREE. It is an opt-in program, which needs to be renewed each year. Having a 2 tiered system, which would require that additives be declared to be used, would likely cause legal problems for us. The Idol: How HBOs Next Euphoria Became Twisted Torture Porn. 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. Blancos are also usually cheaper. Hiatus uses a ground-to-glass method which combines traditional methods and modern technology, produced by master distiller, Luis Trejo Rodrguez at La Cofrada. Patrn Aejo Patrn Aejo is a carefully .

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