best no additive tequila brands best no additive tequila brands

Additives can greatly change the color (SEE ABOVE- again thanks to Taste Tequila), making the appearance of longer aging, with caramel coloring. Although partly owned by Bacardi since 2017, Ilegal remains one of the most sustainable and socially engaged mezcal brands around, having been founded in 2006 by John Rexer to supply his bar in Antigua, Guatemala. 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. JAJA is proudly additive-free. Frankly, there is a certain elitist/snobbish feel to the concept of no additives allowed, we wont mention you or discuss your offerings if you dare. Others like Jose Hermosillo of Casa Noble told me "we use no additives, that is why we do the kosher certification." and is there an app you prefer for Mezcal? The Aejo promises notes of vanilla, caramel, cacao, and butterscotch, while the agave takes a supporting role. STILL: Copper Pot. The pictures ABOVE and BELOW are courtesy of Grover Sanschagrin of 'Taste Tequila' whose excellent recent Video/Report is linked HERE- http://tastetequila.com/2017/the-lowdown-on-tequila-additives/. Whether you prefer blanco, reposado or aejo tequila, Hornitos has something for you in their robust lineup. Keep up the great work, I know I greatly enjoy the content. Read Full Article. Whats inside the decanters is pretty neat too: Clase Azul offers a variety of top-notch tequilas, including reposado, aejo and gold varieties. I do enjoy Clasa Azul which is made by Productos Finos de Agave, I believe. 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. Cenote says the water goes through a reverse osmosis process and carbon filters with silver ions help to eliminate any chance of impurities affecting the taste. Do you believe that? 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. Choose from blanco, reposado and aejo for sipping solo or creating incredible cocktails. Let's discuss it. Dont be fooled by the gold label on gold tequila. The Mezquila is more flavorful than your typical tequila, but not in-your-face smokey like most mezcals. Thanks so much for this list and all your efforts to be able to share your research with us all. Arandas, in the Jalisco mountains of Mexico, is home to Cazcabel. There are three main types of tequila to choose from. The popular Reposado goes from $150-$170 a bottle, and the Anejo is . Inspections are done on-site and can last from a few . Handcrafted using the richest Agave from the Highlands of Jalisco, JAJA Reposado's tasting notes consist of sweet maple, cooked agave, and toasted wood. Thank you. In addition to a number of other brands, Don Julio, Tequila . On Sale. 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." (NOM 1579) -6 marks. 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 proprietary matching algorithm uses nine different characteristics to find the best . Trending Coloring and other additives usually go in after aging and before bottling. I would love to know how to have my husbands tequila reviewed. A new addition to the tequila category, this blanco burst onto the drinks scene in 2021, garnering rave reviews for maximal flavor at a minimal price. The Reposado expression is also aged in stripped and recharred American Oak bourbon barrels, which gives it a deliciously herbaceous toasted flavor. This tequila is great on its own or with a splash of soda. It has greatly increased my enjoyment exploring tequila. Using only the best ingredients and a meticulous process, we are inspired by a vision of what tequila should be: complex, balanced and gastronomic. One percent today, with condensed additives are enough to change things. There are brands that have actually admitted to me that they use coloring to match each 'batch', so as to keep consistency between runs. These brands are going 'on record' here, as being an ADDITIVE FREE TEQUILA BRAND, and I have contacted a wide variety of brands to ask if they are 100% additive free. This is most pronounced with the Rosa, which spends a month in un-charred Napa Valley Cabernet French white oak barrels, giving it a beautiful pink hue and notes of ripe fruit and cherry on the . Cons. The blanco, reposado and aejo spirits were created by Palm Bay International, in partnership with Casa Don Roberto, using fully matured agaves that have been harvested by hand. They can also use glycerin to make the mouthfeel 'rounder', slicker, thicker, oilier, sweeter and different altogether. 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. The bottle, resembling an agave spear, is also eye-catching to display. A colleague introduced me to a Kirkland brand Tequila Anejo at Costco Whether you decide to sip Dulce Vidas blanco, reposado or aejo neat or include them in your favorite cocktails, youll be sure to enjoy their pure taste. Tequila Kateri Nom 1439, First step: Getting the product listed in the app. 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. Brand founder Cirilo Oropeza named the brand Espoln, which means spur in Spanish, to honor his commitment to the tequila craft. ), El Jimadors tequilas are made from 100% Weber blue agave with no fillers or added colors. Region: Jalisco, Mexico | ABV: 40% | Tasting Notes: White pepper, Agave, Mint. The more tequilas you taste and really scrutinize, the easier it gets to pick out additive flavorings. Its great to know which ones already meet the criteria, but to the point about Don Julio, how do we know if a brand has been tested and failed, versus not being tested? 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. To compensate for a light hue, it seems a large number of suppliers are placing caramel color into their aged reposado tequila or anejo tequila, although I know a good amount of quality brands, that although impossible to prove, appear not to use any additives, including colorings. Nobu AND QUI Tequila Launch Nobu Rare 2008 Reserve. In addition to the core expressions, if you're really looking to splurge you can try the extra anejo, aged for seven long years in ex-whiskey barrels, and priced at $350 . This amazing additive-free liquid is produced using only the Youve also probably seen flavored tequila, which is tequila infused with things like coconut, lime, strawberry or jalapeno. After speaking with these brands and tasting all the tequilas mentioned, the list below are brands that passed my own personal test, and taste 100% additive free. The bottles, meantime, are like a work of art, inspired by traditional Mexican colors and motifs. This may be one of the priciest options on our list, but this top-shelf tequila is worth the premium price. The name, Johnson explains, was inspired by his Polynesian background. The big problem is that additives aren't required to be disclosed, although I believe they should be, even if it's 1%. Patrn Aejo Patrn Aejo is a carefully . Simply pour a small amount of tequila into your palm, then rub it between your hands as you would hand sanitizer. Consider that mission achieved, plus they've built quite the celeb following! Cincoro Tequila, $90+, Lavenue says Espoln Blanco is one of the best-value tequilas on the market. It has a smooth, even finish. Good for them.and Good for us. Unfortunately you need to understand the reality of what often goes on with 'Rested' (Reposado), 'Aged' (Anejo) and 'Extra Aged' (XA) Tequilas, concerning ADDITIVES - (SEE Kit ABOVE). It is an opt-in program, which needs to be renewed each year. I'm told it's possible a brand who contracts at a distillery may not even be aware if there are additives in their own tequila. This ensures the freshest agave flavorand you can tell. Thank you for your rapid response, I love it. What additives can you taste? Im just hell-bent, and Guys got the same passion.. A distillery can still be verified if they have additive use in their facility they just need to declare which ones are using additives so we can focus on the ones that dont. Bartenders love Cenote in a Paloma too, and the company responded by introducing the first-ever World Paloma Day last May. While we may be used to drinking clear tequila, many expensive tequilas are more caramel in color, due to being aged in wooden barrels. It will typically taste sweeter and more refreshing, with a smooth, silky finish. Also be on the lookout for Santos excellent Blanco and Reposado tequilas. Grover & Scarlet January 9, 2021 Blog. You have to train yourself to make an educated decision. Although not technically tequila, Revels Avila should be on every tequila and mezcal fans radar. If youre hosting a party or large gathering, youll want to stock up on bottles of Espoln. Dano's Dangerous Tequila Pineapple & Jalapeo Fresh Fruit Infusion. 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. Each tequila decanter is handcrafted by indigenous artisans in a small village in Mexico who create beautiful patterns on the ceramic surface of each bottle. Lalo is a great tequila blanco with no additives. Sauza, $20+, Cenote is an ultra-premium tequila inspired by the beauty of the Yucatan Peninsula. What a great resource you have put together. The more expressions I try, the more sensitive I become to artificial flavorings. Best tequila blanco: Siembra Azul Blanco. Jose Cuervo has been in the tequila game for more than 250 years and was actually the first tequila brand to bottle the spirit individually. Pick Up Some of These Gloves First When I drink tequila, I want to be drinking tequila and nothing else. Now, fans of Dwayne Johnson and tequila alike can purchase Teremana online and get it delivered to their door. Tequila Patrn, for example, has a NOM of 1492. After speaking with these brands and tasting all the tequilas mentioned, the list below are brands that passed my own personal test, and taste 100% additive free. Aged from one to three years, this tequila pulls notes from whatever barrels it sits in, says Roy. Ritual Beverage Company is entering the tequila market. . In fact, the brand is named for the breathtaking underground water systems that are unique to this region. Their reposado and aejo tequilas are aged in ex-bourbon barrels for that smooth taste you know and love. As much as I love Tequila Matchmaker, I sadly have to use Distiller for my mezcal. The tequila is made from 100 percent all-natural, fully matured Blue Weber agave artisanally produced without additives or diffusers. Also, no, you cannot assume that if a distillery is verified it means that all of their products are additive-free. I will go from this list next time I am picking a tequila to taste and buy. 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. We deserve to know, don't you think? Its fresh and flavorful, with just the right amount of spice and a hint of earthiness. This is for Mixto junk as well as 100% agave. $149.99. Still, its $500+ price-point doesnt exactly make it an accessible bottle to buy. Produced using the tequila-making traditions of the Los Bajos region and its tequilieras, the tequila is meticulously aged inFrench White Oakred wine (Cabernet) barrels from Napa Valley. I love that some of my favorites are already here and some that I need try. It's perfect as a mixer to liven any cocktail with its versatility and light body. One of the top-selling brands in the world (it clocks in at sixth! Within the aejo category, there are also two variations: aejo cristalino and extra aejo. Don Julio. 1. 1) Yes, there are many tequilas that are additive free, but have not gone through our process. Each carefully harvested pia is steamed in an autoclave and fermented in steel tanks, resulting in beautifully clean tequila. 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. The . Do they have additives? Jose Cuervo . Plus, all of Espolns tequilas are made with 100% Weber blue agave. Compared to a 100-calorie pour of tequila, that's pretty good. Clase Azul, $137+, Casa Dragones is a small-batch tequila producer that crafts some of the smoothest tequilas on the market. No Additives. Marcos Higareda of 'DesMaDre' said "we do not use ANY additives, never used and never will use caramel coloring, and it's all natural color, taste and aromas from natural barrel aging." The brand offers a blanco, reposado, aejo, aejo cristalino and extra aejo in its lineupand they recently released a limited edition reposado to celebrate their 100th birthday. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Tequila Matchmaker, our free app for iPhone and Android, can detect your own individual "flavor fingerprint" and match you with tequilas that are right for you (and then tell you where to find them.) Jose Cuervo, $26+, Related:35+ Best Canned Cocktails and Drinks, Looking for the best sipping tequila? A nice touch: the hand-blown glass bottle, which is topped with a hand-painted agave pia and vintage-inspired label. The aging process will also change the color of a tequila. Don Julio 1942, specifically, is one of the most premium options from the brand (hence why it comes with a hefty price tag). With notes of fresh-cut grass and tropical fruit, you can always have it in a cocktail, but this is a fantastic tequila to pair with dinner, or a good cheese plate. 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%. Taste: Ritual Zero-Proof's Tequila Alternative is golden in color, suggesting it's an alternative to reposado tequila. The reason caramel coloring is used, is to add a rich and darker color to make it appear that the aging was longer than it actually was. For example, if youre looking to make cocktails, then you should choose a blanco or reposadobut if youre looking to sip tequila on its own, then you should select an aejo or one of its variations, says Martinez. The Aejo variety is aged in American oak bourbon barrels for up to three years, which results in a nice blend of warm agave and oak flavors. The top five best-selling tequila brands run the gamut from budget picks to higher-end options. A complete one stop tequila review app/web site. Each tequila has its own "flavor fingerprint," and each person has his or her own flavor preferences. "We think it's 70% by sales volume last year, so there will always be fewer additive free-tequilas," Scarlet tells me. I contacted Jose Cuervo, Cazadores and Sauza to ask about any additives in their 100% agave tequilas to see what they'd say. The brand offers two options: reposado cristalino and aejo. I don't agree, but if that's true, people need to start thinking differently. Had to give it away. The Reposado features notes of sweet vanilla, oak, mushrooms, ginger, caramel and citrus, which gives it that perfect balance of earthiness, sweetness and spiciness with an easy finish and no lingering aftertaste. :-). Don Abraham Organic Blanco Tequila. When mixed together, both vodka and tequila can be a good option with coke zero. This tequila pulls soft notes from the barrels like caramel and vanilla, as well as sweet, tropical fruity flavors like pineapple, and works well with the herbaceous flavors of the tequila, adds Sylvi Roy, bar manager at Twelve in Portland, Maine. Thank you! These days, some of the best tequilas in the world are actually more comparable to a fine bourbon or robust glass of wine than jello shots and beer pong. The legal requirement is at least 51% blue agave. 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". Organic tequila usually means that the agaves used were grown organically. JAJA is proudly additive free. Espoln Tequila, $32+, Funnyman Kevin Hart teamed up with Juan Domingo Beckmann, an 11th-generation tequila maker, to create Gran Coramino. Our program exists to give a third-party layer of assurance. 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.. 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. Hard to believe, but I'm told it's very possible. It truly is a paragon of the subregion and doesn't get much better given its price point. Tequila Fortaleza, $47+, One of the top five selling tequilas in the world, Hornitos is a premium tequila brand crafted with 100% blue agave. 13. Whats more, they were one of the first brands to use certified organic agave, and theyre committed to doing good for the environment. What you get is pure flavor thats perfect for sipping or adding to cocktails. 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. 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. 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." Reposado means rested in Spanish. 4. Required fields are marked *. Remember they are saving time and money using them. Adding additives and or color usually occurs towards the end of production before bottling, in the 'rectification'. I am passionate about tequila and I will keep this list close. They could contain additives and still be considered organic.. Patron has stepped up with this seriously smooth, barrel-aged anejo. My favorite expression in our portfolio is, of course, our new limited edition bottle that we just released to honor the 100-year anniversary of our original reposado recipe from 1922, says Martinez. Casa Dragones, $70+, Most tequilas are aged in American oak, but Casa Noble is different. Hes been in the tequila business for almost thirty years, starting out with the award-winning Cabo Wabo brand back in 1991. Have you heard anything from their distillery? This is fantastic information and your website is an unbelievable resource, which I greatly appreciate. 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. This isnt a surprise, given Jose Cuervo is an affordable, versatile tequila that you can find in just about any liquor store. TERA means of the Earth and MANA is our powerful Polynesian spirit that guides us. So excited to confidently try some expressions that are verified free of additives. The crystal-clear Bribon is unaged with vegetal earthy notes that work well in a margarita, paloma, or old-fashioned, though Jessica Fallon, general Manager of Ladybirds in Houston, Texas, says she prefers drinking it on the rocks. El Jimador Tequila Silver Price: $16-$30. Photo credit: Courtesy. 1) No, some blancos definitely contain additives. At the time, that was enough for us. . He said people have their opinions about Productos Finos de Agave, but he was clear that any sweet profile is strictly from very ripe agaves. Tequila producers also use some additives, like glycerin or sugar-based syrup, to change the mouthfeel or intensify the brand's sweetness. Our top pick is the Tequila Ocho Plata La Caada 2022, a single-estate tequila that's perfect for sipping. ABV/PROOF: 54% abv (108-proof) Confirmed Additive Free Tequila. However, it smells smoky like mezcal or charred wood, and there's a hint of that tequila agave scent. Cenote Tequila, $41+, Olmeca Altos tequilas are made from 100% blue agave grown in Los Altos, the highlands of Jalisco, Mexico. 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. Think of this as the cognac of tequila best for sipping neat, or with an ice cube. Love my Cimarron. Other brands, some very popular did not answer me back on giving me their 'guarantee' and 'assurances' that no additives what so ever are used in their products. What does YOUR nose and taste tell YOU? "Among agave experts, Fortaleza is one of the most revered brands in tequila. The idea: to create an ultra premium, ultra-smooth tequila at an accessible price point. Another tactic often used to fool the public into thinking that a particular tequila was aged longer or is richer, is to tint the bottle glass to a darkish or amber appearance. Gran Coramino, $60+, Clase Azul wins for the packaging alone. Gran Coraminos tequilas are roasted in traditional stone ovens and barrel-aged. Thanks, 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. Dano (yep, there's actually a Dano behind Dano's Dangerous Tequila) works with one of . Sure, tequila shots are fun at parties (and maybe gives you some liquid courage before stepping onto that karaoke stage), but artists rapping about shots of Patrn have really given tequila an undeservedly bad (and, ahem, cheap) rep. You can enjoy them neat, over ice or mixed into a cocktail. Plus, Revel offers a Reposado and an Aejo expression of the Avila, as well as the Blanco (linked below). Vandoliers Play Tennessee Concert in Dresses to Protest State's New Drag Bill LALO Tequila, $50, Speaking of Don Julio, no list of the best tequila brands would be complete without this iconic option! 9. Codigo 1530 Barrel Strength Limited Bottling Anejo Tequila. Use this form to receive email alerts of any changes to this list. 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. JAJA is a small batch Tequila that is best enjoyed with friends and family. 5 Types of Tequila. As I asked for their word on 100% additive free (including the legal 1%), let it be understood that misleading consumers is as far as I'm concerned, a reflection on these brands, and THEY are the ones that should look bad. While they may be fun for a party or to use in mixed drinks, we recommend skipping these bottles the rest of the time and just drinking tequila straight up. We dont have much production information on this product either. Several factors come into play at each stage of this process, but at the very least, for a tequila to be great, it must be all agave, with no additives. Thank you for creating it. One of the most-awarded bottles on our list, Danos Aejo Tequila is aged 18 months in virgin French white oak barrels and produced using 100% agave at a family-owned distillery that dates back to 1840. Buy Casa Noble Marqus de Casa Noble $175.99. Another thing to look for aside: a four-digit number that represents each distillerys unique code. These Anti-Fatigue Mats Will Cushion and Support Your Feet, Another (Celine) Portrait: See Bob Dylan in Fashion Brand's Latest 'Performer' Series, The Best Wireless Range Extenders to Use (and How They Work), Outdoor Buds: These Fully Waterproof Workout Earbuds Are Just $30, NBA 'Investigating,' Team Suspends Ja Morant After Allegedly Flashing Gun on Social Media, See the Beths Deliver Refreshing 'Expert in a Dying Field' Mini-Set on 'CBS Mornings', Netflixs Sex/Life Is Back to Satisfy Your Softcore Desires, Alex Murdaugh Juror Says Cellphone Video, 'Big Liar' Testimony Led to Guilty Verdict. He is correct, anyone can say anything, but I will say, that after tasting all of Felipe's products and talking with him for years, he is one producer I trust solely on his word. and whole industries have grown from this use of additives. The reposado, with an ABV of 40%, is aged for four months in ruby port wine casks that give it a signature pink color. Break this one out for the most special of occasions. 2. Are tequilas marked organic additive free? I assume these brands tell themselves that it's part of the 'tequila making procedure'. The product is kosher, organic, and certified clean industry. Sophie Decobecq of 'Calle 23' said we use no additives and as for caramel "this is why our color is not consistent, which is why my last anejo batch is much clearer, and I am fine with this." Thank you so much for putting this together and committing to keeping it updated! I find that the extended barrel aging pulls out any astringent qualities that may have been in the originally distilled juice, making this the easiest to sip on its own., The best type of tequila for sipping is the one in which you can taste the complexity given by the best agave source, along with a good elaboration process, providing the smoothness and sweetness you can obtain from the agave, says Martinez. https://tastetequila.com/2017/the-lowdown-on-tequila-additives/. dried fruit, and vanilla. I am totally independent & honest. Additives - especially caramel coloring or oak extracts - are most commonly found in aged tequilas to boost a tequila's appearance. 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. 2. This incredible distillate features notes of olives, herbs, earth and grass. Siempre. Espolon Blanco tequila honors Mexico's art and history, and the story of Espolon - the spur of a rooster - is great for starting conversations. Thanks. But if you want a drink that is a little smoother, vodka may be the way to go. To celebrate the release, Dobel collaborated with the Mexico City-based design firm Onora on a custom hand-painted bottle stopper inspired by the traditional Mexican folk art craft known as Amate. Only 200 bottles were produced of the Maestro Dobel 50 Onora, which retails for $250.