Many people may think that Tequila Avion is inextricably linked to the now ended HBO series “Entourage.” But in reality this tequila is far more authentic than Vince and his pals ever were. Turtle may have spent an entire season hawking Tequila Avion like a bad late night infomercial, but one cannot hold poor marketing against good tequila.

Tequila Avion hails from the Highlands of Jalisco. The agave there develops a fruity character with a notable herbaceous undertone. Highlands agave grow larger than their Lowlands counterparts, resulting in a higher amount of sugars which, in turn, provide the fruit and herb characteristics versus the more austere notes found in Lowland agaves.

Tequila Avion makes several styles of tequila, the anejo (aged) being the one reviewed here. Initially, the harvested agave hearts known as pinas are slow baked in clay ovens, then distilled twice in copper pot stills before being aged for two years in oak barrels.

On the nose, Tequila Avion anejo presents notes of roasted agave, sweet potato, vanilla, caramel, and baking spice. The deep golden tequila continues to offer more as it sits in the glass and Tequila Avion anejo makes a strong argument for enjoying this tequila from a Riedel tequila glass. This is a classic tequila, and its nose alone tells one that this is something to be sipped and savored.

On the palate, more roasted agave and vanilla notes appear, followed by fresh baked peach cobbler, hints of cherry pie, leather, pipe tobacco, and warm caramels. Tequila Avion anejo will simply delight any true tequila aficionado; this is tequila at its best.

The finish of Tequila Avion anejo is long, complex, and satisfying. More agave sugars appear then give way to notes of saddle leather, pecans and stone fruit.

Tequila Avion anejo is a tequila designed for sipping. While it may very well make a great margarita, tequila this good should be savored on its own, perhaps with a good cigar. This is a tequila for tequila drinkers and those who want to experience what great tequila can be. Highly recommended.

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