Assessment: Gran Centenario Leyenda Further Anejo Tequila (2023)

In 2009, we had our first style of Gran Centenario Leyenda. On the time, we reported that it was the primary tequila to hold the illustrious additional anejo designation reserved for tequilas barrel-aged for 3 years or longer. Apparently, there was some debate about that (with Mr. Cuervo) as Leyenda now not claims that title. Regardless of the case, Gran Centenario was absolutely one of many pioneers of the type, which has seen appreciable development as premiumization continues to take maintain within the tequila class. Since our first encounter, Leyenda has traded in its unique, overdone, Cognac-style bottle for the stylish, slender packaging of contemporary premium tequilas, however extra has doubtlessly modified for this one than simply the duds. Time to revisit.

Chris was fairly struck by this tequila’s shade when he first reviewed it again within the aughts, and it stays one of many darker additional anejos I’ve encountered, with an attractive, deep rose gold hue. On the nostril, that shade fortunately nonetheless doesn’t translate to a very oaky profile. Fairly the other. This tequila is shiny and refreshing with a great deal of contemporary spearmint and delicate menthol alongside candy orange oil and juicy tangerine. Nonetheless, the barrel isn’t solely absent as a creamy vanilla bean notice ties all the pieces collectively. On the palate, extra cool vanilla notes, nearly like ice cream, emerge with fruitier excessive tones of pulpy orange slice, lemon peel, and pink grapefruit. The agave is reworked right into a wealthy, minty notice, to the purpose of being nearly undetectable. The end is clear and crisp with light baking spice, caramel, and lingering muddled mint. I struggled a bit with the absence of a extra vegetal agave aspect on this tequila, however it’s simply too well-balanced and superbly executed to let that intrude with my appreciation. Plus, the value has decreased significantly since our first encounter. A cut price in additional anejo… if there’s such a factor.

80 proof.

A / $150 / grancentenario.com [BUY IT NOW FROM TOTAL WINE]

Gran Centenario Leyenda Further Anejo Tequila (2023)

$150

About Submit Writer

Drew Beard

Drew Beard is Assistant Editor and Social Media Supervisor for Drinkhacker. He has studied and written about beer, whisk(e)y, and different spirits since he first began ingesting them, incomes a number of booze-related benefit badges alongside the way in which, together with Licensed Specialist in Spirits and Govt Bourbon Steward. A recovering Federal authorities worker, he’s glad to have lastly discovered a profession the place it’s acceptable to drink on the job.