I used to have a rule that I didn’t drink any tequilas that weren’t actually available in Mexico. What I mean is that a number of tequila brands are produced for export to the United States, but they aren’t available or consumed by people in Mexico. My thought was always, “If people in Mexico, the land of tequila, don’t drink it, then why should I?” Because of this rule, I’ve always had a special place in my heart for Herradura and Cazadores. Both are excellent tequilas, and most importantly to me, they are both highly-regarded by tequila aficionados in Mexico. While I’ve written before about Herradura, today I’m going to write about the latest offering from Cazadores, their extra-anejo tequila. Suffice to say, it’s not only a world-class tequila, it is also one of the finest spirits made. At around $60 a bottle, while not cheap, it offers value that spirits three times its price don’t come close to. If you enjoy tequila or if you want to explore just how complex and enjoyable agave-based spirits can be, Cazadores Extra Anejo takes tequila into the realm of the best cognacs and single malt whiskies.

Cazadores has always been one of my standby tequilas. I love to use Cazadores Reposado in margaritas, and it’s also a nice sipper. When I used to travel into Mexico frequently, I always knew that I could find Cazadores in even the smallest little cantina, and oftentimes when I ordered Cazadores, the locals would take much more interest in this gringo drinking in their bar.

One night, after perhaps a bit too much Cazadores in Baja California, I talked my way into competing in a midnight rodeo. After all, how often does one get to compete in a rodeo at midnight?  After a second place finish, my friends and I celebrated with even more Cazadores, and a fun night of partying turned into a legendary story among my friends.

So, what is an extra-anejo tequila anyway? Anejo means “aged,” and by law, extra-anejo tequila must be aged for over three years in oak barrels. While that may not sound like a lot compared to whiskies and cognacs that can be aged for decades, Mexico has a much warmer climate than Scotland or France, which means that the spirits age much faster in that environment. I’ve had my fair share of extra-anejo tequilas that were over-oaked and undrinkable. Cazadores Extra Anejo, though, is a different story.

On the nose, Cazadores Extra Anejo exhibits notes of agave, vanilla, and caramel. On the palate, this rich tequila offers a tantalizing array of flavors, ranging from orange peel to agave to white pepper and cinnamon. The finish is long, lingering, and pleasing with a slight pepperiness and just a hint of herb notes. The result is the best extra-anejo tequila I’ve tasted.

At $60, Cazadores Extra Anejo Tequila is an absolute steal. Do not miss out on tasting this tequila. Try it with a cigar or after a nice meal to truly see what an extra-anejo tequila can be. Cazadores Extra Anejo is a world-class spirit.

Disclosure: I received a sample of this product from Tequila Cazadores for review. No other compensation from Tequila Cazadores was received.