Gran Centenario Tequila Reposado

I was first introduced to this tequila by a friend who is born and raised in Playa Del Carmen. He recommended it as a family favourite that was underrated and generally "flew under the radar" with tourists and non-Mexicans and I can't thank him enough. It is smooth but not too smooth or light. That is to say that it still has a full flavour and finishes with just enough alcohol bite to be compared to the experience of sipping a fine scotch or bourbon. The price belays its quality as it can be purchased in Mexican grocery and department stores for under $20 US, yet I prefer it to reposados in the $100 US range. You could easily offer this tequila to novices and aficionados alike with confidence.

Very smooth, one of the best I have tasted. Ugly bottle though.

I am not an experienced reviewer that many of you may have become accustom to read on Tequila.net, but I will improve. Gran Centenario Reposado in my opinion is a very good tequila that should be enjoyed by all.

Tasted on 10/2/08 out of double ball glass. Since I wasn't too impressed with their blanco, I wasn't expecting much further down their line. But I have to admit, their reposado is much tastier to me than their blanco. A very nice sipper.

Aroma: Very intense floral and agave.
Initial Taste: Upon entry, a semi oily feel, sweet with no bitterness.
Body: Intense agave and floral, with a hint of caramel and cinnamon.
Finish: A slightly heated finish of medium to long duration. The flavor of this one lingers for a while.

Tasting this tequila showed me that not all tequilas can be judged by their blanco. Go figure.

Gran Centenario Reposado, NOM 1122. In my opinion this is a truly fine tequila with a light amber color & nice, long, symmetrical legs extending to the top of the glass. The first nose is that of light agave followed by slight oak & caramel. The sweet, peppery initial taste is openly inviting with a nice aged quality. Vanilla & more peppery spice forms a deep, consistent body. This entire experience finishes with an enveloping veil of agave nectar, tingling sensation, & tapers off beautifully. A slight numbing warms the entire palate & adds to the overall smoothness. This is my favorite reposado to date. It mixes superbly in a Margarita or with grapefruit soda. Very enjoyable strait, on the rocks, etc. Top shelf. A+