Founded in 1942 by Don Julio González, Don Julio tequila remains at the forefront of tequila innovation, setting standards for craftsmanship and quality.
The best Don Julio tequilas range from the pure agave freshness of the Blanco, the versatility of its Añejo, to the depths of its Ultima Reserva Extra Añejo.
My cunning plan is to take you on an agave journey through the Don Julio tequila collection to get you thoroughly acquainted with this high-end tequila brand.
Best Don Julio Tequilas
The best Don Julio tequilas range from the pure agave of its Blanco to the depths of its Ultima Reserva Extra Añejo. Here are 8 to try.
1. Don Julio Blanco
Overview
- Distiller: Don Julio
- ABV: 40% (80 Proof)
- Country: Mexico
- Colour: Clear
Review
Don Julio Blanco is the brand’s purest expression, unaged and crystal clear. It captures the essence of blue agave, offering a vibrant and refreshing experience.
On The Nose
Crisp agave with a touch of lemon and lime citrus.
On The Palate
The taste is lively, dominated by fresh agave, complemented by subtle citrus notes and a hint of pepper. The finish is agave-dominant and slightly sweet.
Best Served
The tequila is perfect for shots with salt and lime or in a zesty Margarita with attitude.
Pricing & Info
You can check the latest pricing, product information, and order online.
2. Don Julio Reposado Tequila
Overview
- Distiller: Do Julio
- ABV: 38% (76 Proof)
- Country: Mexico
- Colour: Golden Amber
Review
Don Julio Reposado is a tequila aged 8 months in American oak barrels. It’s a well-balanced blend of fresh agave and warming wood in sipping tequila territory. Also, try Casamigos Resposado.
On The Nose
Sweet agave with notes of vanilla and plum.
On The Palate
A dance of sweet agave, vanilla, and a hint of spice. Mid-palate becomes gently spiced with cinnamon and dark cocoa, leading to a fruity finish.
Best Served
Enjoy this beauty neat or with a splash of soda. I’d also recommend this in an El Diablo with hidden depths or a Mexican Mule.
Pricing & Info
You can check the latest pricing, product information, and order online.
3. Don Julio Añejo Tequila
Overview
- Distiller: Don Julio
- ABV: 38% (76 Proof)
- Country: Mexico
- Colour: Light Amber
Review
Matured for 18 months in American oak barrels, Don Julio Añejo is a decadent sipping tequila that’s a full-bodied delight. It’s a tequila that tells tales of patience and craftsmanship.
On The Nose
Caramel with undertones of dried fruits and mandarin and lime citrus.
On The Palate
The taste is a luxurious blend of caramel, dried fruits, and roasted agave. On the finish, pronounced oakiness, spice and hints of smooth honey remind you of its quality.
Best Served
On the rocks or in a refined Tequila Manhattan. Pure indulgence. Trust me, you need this tequila in your life.
Pricing & Info
You can check the latest pricing, product information, and order online.
4. Don Julio 70 Cristalino Tequila
Overview
- Distiller: Don Julio
- ABV: 40% (80 Proof)
- Country: Mexico
- Colour: Clear
Review
I still can’t get my head around this, as Cristalino tequila undergoes a unique charcoal filtration process, retaining its rich flavours while being crystal clear. (also, check out Espolòn Cristalino Tequila)
On The Nose
Rich caramel with a touch of almond.
On The Palate
Despite its clarity, the taste is rich, with notes of caramel, almond, and a gentle oakiness and honey on the finish. It’s a tequila that defies expectations.
Best Served
Keep it simple and enjoy it neat. I sometimes add a splash of soda water to open it up more, much like when whiskey tasting.
Pricing & Info
You can check the latest pricing, product information, and order online.
5. Don Julio Primavera
Overview
- Distiller: Don Julio
- ABV: 40% (80 Proof)
- Country: Mexico
- Colour: Light Golden
Review
A limited edition (and pricier) tequila offering, Don Julio Primavera is aged and finished in orange wine casks. It’s a tequila that challenges conventions.
On The Nose
Citrus with a hint of agave and honey.
On The Palate
The flavour is intriguing, with notes of citrus, honey, and a subtle oakiness. It’s a tequila that constantly surprises with a fresh, zesty finish.
Best Served
Enjoy neat to appreciate its multifaceted character, or in a Primavera Modern cocktail. Food-wise, I’d pair it with a cheese platter.
Pricing & Info
You can check the latest pricing, product information, and order online.
6. Don Julio Rosado
Overview
- Distiller: Don Julio
- ABV: 40% (80 Proof)
- Country: Mexico
- Colour: Pink Hue
Review
Aged in red wine barrels, Don Julio Rosado is a fusion of tequila and wine. It’s a tequila that offers a unique tasting experience, a blend of two worlds.
On The Nose
Red fruits with a touch of oak.
On The Palate
The taste is a harmonious blend of red fruits, a hint of oak, and the signature agave sweetness. It’s a tequila that feels like a celebration.
Best Served
This beauty is best served neat or with a splash of soda water and a cheeky lemon twist.
Pricing & Info
You can check the latest pricing, product information, and order online.
7. Don Julio 1942 Añejo
Overview
- Distiller: Don Julio
- ABV: 38% (76 Proof)
- Country: Mexico
- Colour: Amber
Review
A tribute to the year the brand was founded, Don Julio 1942 is a tequila that stands tall among its peers. It’s a symphony of flavours for those who want a high-end tequila or a fantastic gift.
On The Nose
Caramel, chocolate with undertones of toasted oak.
On The Palate
The taste is a decadent blend of vanilla, toasted oak, and a robust agave presence. It’s a tequila to reserve for life’s special moments, savouring each drop.
Best Served
The best way to enjoy Don Julio 1942 is neat, with a single ice cube, and let the flavours do the talking.
Pricing & Info
You can check the latest pricing, product information, and order online.
8. Don Julio Ultima Reserva Extra Añejo
Overview
- Distiller: Don Julio
- ABV: 40% (80 Proof)
- Country: Mexico
- Colour: Pale Honey
Review
The pinnacle of Don Julio’s offerings, Ultima Reserva, is an Extra Añejo tequila aged to perfection. It’s a testament to the brand’s commitment to excellence.
On The Nose
Rich caramel with deep oak.
On The Palate
The taste is a luxurious blend of dark chocolate, orange, dried apricot, and a pronounced oakiness. The agave finish is ultra-smooth and honey-like.
Best Served
Neat, to truly savour its intricate flavours. Ingrid likes to pair it with a square of dark chocolate!
Pricing & Info
You can check the latest pricing, product information, and order online.
Andrew’s Top Pick
Don Julio 1942 Añejo
Although every tequila on this list offers a high-end tequila experience, my top pick tequila is Don Julio 1942 Añejo because it is rich, smooth and oh-so drinkable.
This is everything a quality Añejo tequila should be, and it will also make a well-received gift.
Tequila Cocktail Ideas
Although Don Julio tequila is ideal for shots or sipping, sometimes only a cocktail will do. Here are some ideas to make your mouth water.
| No. | Tequila | Cocktails |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Don Julio Blanco | Margarita, Paloma, Ranch Water |
| 2 | Don Julio Reposado Tequila | Negroni, Margarita, Margarita de Chamoy |
| 3 | Don Julio Añejo Tequila | Old Fashioned, Margarita, Paloma |
| 4 | Don Julio 70 Cristalino Tequila | Margarita, Margarita de Chamoy, Paloma |
| 5 | Don Julio Primavera | Margarita, Paloma, Tequila Sunrise |
| 6 | Don Julio Rosado | Margarita, Paloma, Tequila Sunrise |
| 7 | Don Julio 1942 Añejo | Margarita, Old Fashioned, Sidecar |
| 8 | Don Julio Ultima Reserva Extra Añejo | Margarita, Old Fashioned, Sidecar |
Brand Summary
| Subject | Don Julio Tequila |
|---|---|
| Brand Name | Don Julio |
| Country of Origin | Mexico |
| Distillery Location | Atotonilco El Alto, Jalisco |
| Founded | 1942 |
| Founder | Don Julio González |
| Type Of Agave | 100% Blue Weber |
| Distillation Process | Double distilled in copper pot stills |
| Ageing Process | Aged in American white oak barrels |
| Alcohol Content | 40% ABV (80 proof) |
| Main Notes | Blanco: Crisp agave with hints of citrus Reposado: Smooth, vanilla, caramel, and oak Añejo: Rich, chocolate, coffee, and dried fruit Cristalino: Smooth, agave and vanilla 1942: Exceptionally smooth, vanilla, caramel |
| Most Popular | Don Julio Blanco, Reposado, Añejo, 1942 |
| Price Range | $40-$600 (£50-£700) |
Conclusion
Don Julio stands as a beacon of authenticity and innovation in the often crowded tequila universe. The best Don Julio tequilas are not just spirits but proof of the brand’s commitment to quality and passion for the craft.
Also Read: 10 Awesome Tequila Distillery Tours In Mexico
Be warned, the price of entry for Don Julio tequila is higher than most, with the Blanco costing around $40 in the US and £50 in the UK (thanks import duty!), and the Ultima Reserva will set you back $600/£700.
Whether you’re a seasoned tequila enthusiast, lover of tequila history, or just beginning your journey, Don Julio offers something unique, no matter your tequila of choice or occasion.
Also read: 5 Best Espolon Tequilas: Rise of the Rooster
References
| donjulio.com/our-story |
| wikipedia.org/wiki/Don_Julio |
| tastetequila.com/2018/what-are-cristalino-tequilas-who-are-they-for/ |
| wikipedia.org/wiki/Carbon_filtering |
Further Reading
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