It has been nine long years since we last looked in on Jose Cuervo’s top end Reserva de la Familia expression, the very first extra anejo tequila introduced way back in 1995. Since a line extension in 2020 that added a Platino, Reposado, and, most recently, a Cristalino offering, the label has been tweaked a bit to more boldly highlight the Extra Anejo designation. That change is probably overdue given that since 2006, when the category was officially recognized, hundreds of extra anejo tequilas have hit the market.

Other than the slight label change, this appears to be the same extra-aged tequila that consistently impressed us last decade. Cuervo has even continued to highlight a different Mexican artist with each vintage. For 2024, Mexican sculptor, goldsmith, and leatherer Ana Pellicer’s artwork “Insatiable Transparencies of a Historic Landscape” adorns the custom boxes for both the 750ml and 375ml bottles. We’re long overdue for a revisit of this old favorite, so let’s get to it.

Jose Cuervo Reserva de la Familia Extra Anejo Review

When we last tasted this tequila in 2016, it was something of an anomaly from previous years of caramel bombs, showcasing a little more spice on the nose and palate. Tasting the 2024 release, it appears that trend has continued with winning results. The nose is clean with top notes of bright, sweet agave wrapped in sultry layers of caramelized sugar, dark toffee, and crispy, well-baked almond torte. Cinnamon stick and white pepper add a subtle spice that complements dark, silky notes of vanilla bean and bruleed sugar.

As it opens on the palate, a delightful citrus element – a mix of orange peel and lime zest – adds a welcome energy to an otherwise deep and gently spiced aroma. The palate is round and inviting with early notes of cooked, sugary agave that quickly darken and sweeten with rich brown sugar and caramel candies. The midpalate is luscious, all dark butterscotch and soft wood spice, dissolving into a generous finish of orange peel, chewy caramels, and agave syrup with hints of cracked pepper. Extra anejos are not nearly as rare as they were when we last tasted this tequila, but this OG remains a pinnacle of the style.

80 proof. NOM 1122.

A / $200

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