2022 has been one other massive yr for tequila, with extra-old expressions coming from each nook – and spending time in all method of barrels – in addition to cristalino bottlings changing into all of the sudden, extremely in style. Mezcal continues its rise in recognition, with movie star mezcal now changing into a factor. We drank numerous tequila and mezcal in 2022. Listed here are our 10 favorites.
For extra nice picks, see additionally our prime tens from 2021, 2020, and 2019.
1. Tequila Don Julio Ultima Reserva – Tequila constituted of the ultimate agave planting of Don Julio González, the additional anejo is loaded with notes of cinnamon, lemon, and coconut – however completely balanced with peppery agave, holding it grounded. A end in Madeira casks retains this tequila vibrant and exquisite, although the value might make it a problem for all however essentially the most die-hard of tequila fanatics. 80 proof. $499 [BUY IT NOW FROM CASKERS]
2. Expresiones del Corazon Barrel-Aged Tequila George T. Stagg Anejo 2021 – This partnership between Corazon and Buffalo Hint is a decade outdated, and the tequilas produced by ageing in BT’s whiskey casks are repeatedly worthwhile and thrilling. This anejo (which arrived in early 2022) spent 22 months in George T. Stagg barrels, and the outcomes are spectacular, a deep dive into the barrel that comes out mild in shade, with an intricate, nuanced taste that evokes florals, buttery baked apples, vanilla custard, and naturally a lacing of pepper. These on the lookout for Stagg-as-tequila shall be upset, however these looking for a completely completely different anejo expertise shall be dazzled. 80 proof. $95 [BUY IT NOW FROM CASKERS] [BUY IT NOW FROM DRIZLY]
3. Maestro Dobel 50 1967 Tequila – The originators of the cristalino class are again with the primary ina collection of additional anejo tequilas, this one, confoundingly named “50 1967” aged in American and French oak for 3 years earlier than ending in sherry casks. A close to $1000 will get you a lush, balanced expression of fruity, spicy tequila that threads the needle between candy and savory components, offering a pleasant vacation really feel on its prolonged, coffee-laced end. 80 proof. $950 [BUY IT NOW FROM FROOTBAT]
4. Calirosa Tequila Rosa Blanco – How a couple of pink blanco tequila, one which is aged 30 days in California crimson wine barrels? This distinctive tequila has the peppery hallmarks of a blanco, but additionally an unmistakable floral word, with impossibly distinct rose petal components. Notes of chocolate pair nicely with the floral character, making this an ideal tequila on your valentine’s day cocktailing. 80 proof. $50 [BUY IT NOW FROM DRIZLY]
5. Mal de Amor Tobala Mezcal – One in every of our favorites from this Oaxacan mezcal maker, this tobala-distilled spirit has nearly no smoke on the nostril, as an alternative permitting lemon and barely candy herbs to dominate. The smoke does work its approach into the expertise ultimately, serving to to maintain all of the complicated components right here in verify. 92 proof. $100 [BUY IT NOW FROM DRIZLY]
6. Mico Tequila Anejo – There’s nothing concerning the Mico tequila line’s presentation that may clue you in to its spectacular high quality, however right here we’re. Aged in American oak bourbon barrels then completed in Alexander Valley cabernet sauvignon barrels for 16 months whole, this uncommon anejo finds a number of fruit and florals melding on the nostril, transferring from there right into a delightfully candy palate. The wine barrel ending positively makes itself recognized, holding you in your toes. 80 proof. $46 [BUY IT NOW FROM DRIZLY]
7. Tequila Gran Diamante Reposado – 8 months in French oak barrels provides this elegant reposado a mixture of pungent agave and mild lemon, working from citrus into vanilla and a twig of blended herbs. Cinnamon and pepper notes on the end make for a tequila that’s powerful to tug your self away from. 80 proof. $62 [BUY IT NOW FROM DRIZLY]
8. El Tequileno Reposado Uncommon – A kooky reposado that spends 6 years in barrel as an alternative of two months… however because it’s a large, 25,000-liter container, the foundations of engagement listed here are completely different. An actual deal with, the tequila options notes starting from pineapple to paprika, with honey, melon, vanilla, and pepper all within the combine because the end arrives. A extra distinctive reposado you’ll unlikely discover. 80 proof. $200
9. Montagave Tequila Blanco “Heritage” (Lot 237) – A calmly rested blanco that spent a little bit of time in crimson wine casks, that is one other distinctive tequila that stands truly as probably the most powerfully agave-forward on this record. Meaty and earthy, there’s loads of savory energy right here that’s ever so slowly tempered by notes of grapefruit, sesame oil, and – sure – outdated wine. Busy and distinctive. 82 proof. $75 [BUY IT NOW FROM DRIZLY]
10. Xicala Mezcal Anejo – It’s nonetheless onerous to seek out aged mezcal, particularly distinctive choices like this one, which spends a yr in American oak and French Cognac barrels. Mushy and fruity, its smokiness is balanced with a strongly natural word and components of mulled wine later within the recreation. Chocolatey and peppery on the complicated end. 80 proof. $60
Tequila Don Julio Ultima Reserva
$499
About Submit Creator
