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Forbes
41 minutes ago
- Entertainment
- Forbes
The World's Best Tequila—According To The 2025 World Spirits Championships
Tears Of Llorona Small Batch Extra Añejo Tequila The Beverage Testing Institute (BevTest) is a 44-year-old organization committed to providing comprehensive, expert-led sensory evaluations for beer, spirits, cider, sake, and even mead. Panelists employ a scientific-degree of analysis to come away with professional-grade results. When it comes to hard liquor, specifically, it is constantly updating its scores across all major categories throughout the calendar year. This June BevTest revealed its winners for tequila as part of an annual evaluation it aptly dubs the 'World Spirits Championships.' The top scoring bottle--earning an impressive 96 out of 100 possible points--was a small batch extra añejo from ultra-premium brand Tears of Llorona. Today we're going to take a closer look at that exact expression to understand what makes it so exceptional. Let's start off by seeing what the folks at BevTest had to say. Here are the tasting notes provided on the company's website: The batch of 86-proof spirit they sampled was on May 29th of this year. As we stated before, the judges are quite methodical in their approach. But even using measured, scientific language, the brilliance of the juice shines through in their effusive praise. The expression, formally known as Tears of Llorona No. 3, is a lowland tequila crafted by master distiller Germán González Gorrochotegui at the Tequileña distillery (NOM 1146). This is the same vaunted facility responsible for other top shelf expressions of agave spirit from brands including Cierto, Don Fulcano, and ArteNOM. Gorrochotegui separates his product from the pack by using a combination of barrels seasoned with three separate types of alcohol: scotch, brandy and sherry. The industry standard is typically ex-bourbon; both cheaper and more-widely available than the aforementioned casks. By bearing the extra effort (and cost) to source this speciality cooperage he comes away with a rich and sophisticated sipping spirit that carries many of the leather-laden characteristics you might suspect from Speyside Scotch or XO Cognac. Another way in which the liquid mines those deep flavors is by resting for an extended period of time in the luxe barrels. In order to be labeled an extra añejo a tequila must spend a minimum of 3 years in oak. Tears of Llorona matures for upwards of five. And yes, the oak extraction is pronounced as a consequence. Its finish is long and lush, painting the palate with broad brushstrokes of butterscotch and cinnamon. But there are still filaments of herbaceous agave earth to ponder--particularly in the nose of this tequila. The product's name refers to a popular Latin-American ghost story of a grieving woman who wanders the land, shedding endless tears for the loss of her two young sons. The tale is frequently told as a cautionary one to children to discourage them from staying out too late at night. For the tequila, it's also meant to represent the tears of the angels; agave spirit that evaporates from the barrel during that lengthy maturation process. As much as 50% of the liquid can vanish after 5 years in this climate--quite a sad story, indeed. And so the care and patience of Gorrochotegui's craft comes at an elevated cost, of course. A bottle of his top-scoring spirit retails for $230. But it's also offered in a unique 1-liter decanter, notably larger than the 750ml standard for distilled spirits. Too much of a good thing? Hardly. After sampling this 96-point belter the only tears to speak of will be your own, after you reach the end of the glass. A Jimador (person who works on the agave plant) holds an agave pineapple on a field in Tequila, ... More Jalisco state, Mexico, on July 23, 2021, amid the International Tequila Day. (Photo by Ulises RUIZ / AFP) (Photo by ULISES RUIZ/AFP via Getty Images)
Forbes
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Forbes
The Top Extra Anejo Tequila, According To The Beverage Testing Inst.
Extra Añejo Tequila with lime and salt. Four Extra Añejo Tequilas and three Cristalino Tequilas were awarded Gold Medals at the 2025 Beverage Testing Institute (BevTest) Tequila Judging. Tears of Llorona Small Batch Extra Añejo Tequila was the top-ranked Extra Añejo and the only Platinum medal winner among Tequilas. 1800 Cristalino Tequila Añejo was the top-ranked Cristalino Tequila. Below is a brief background on each of the gold medalists, along with the official BevTest tasting notes on the Tequilas. Score: 96 - Platinum Medal–Superlative Crafted by Master Distiller Germán González, Tears of Llorona is a luxury, small-batch Extra Añejo Tequila matured in Sherry, Scotch, and brandy barrels. It's widely praised for its rare complexity and depth and has been a perennial winner in international spirit competitions. The official BevTest Judging Panel described the Tequila as featuring aromas of 'root beer, coffee grounds, and tobacco, followed by flavors of oak, peach- fig cobbler, and anise. Vibrant, decadent, and wildly nuanced, and still easily identifiable as agave-forward Tequila.' Score: 94 - Gold Medal–Exceptional Crafted by Casa Cuervo, Milenio is aged in French oak Cognac barrels. This elegant extra añejo is designed for special occasions and delivers layered, dessert-like richness. The official BevTest Judging Panel described the Tequila as featuring aromas of 'dark caramelized nuts, chocolate coconut bar, and vanilla frosting, followed by flavors of chocolate orange peels, delicate spices, and creme brulee with powdered sugar. A tasty and very well-balanced Extra Añejo that is sure to please.' Score: 93 - Gold Medal–Exceptional Alquimia Reserva de Don Adolfo VI is an estate-grown organic Extra Añejo Tequila. It offers richness, balance, and subtle influences of tropical and orchard fruits. The official BevTest Judging Panel described the Tequila as featuring aromas of 'cinnamon, grass, and balsa wood accompanied by flavors of salted caramel, baked orchard fruit, and pineapple skin. Rich and inviting with lovely, dried citrus that balances the rich flavors that are beautifully balanced for Tequila Old Fashioneds or after-dinner sipping.' Score: 93 - Gold Medal–Exceptional This cask strength Extra Añejo from Alquimia is bold and intense. It's bottled at full barrel proof and aimed at seasoned Tequila drinkers looking for robust flavor and structure. The official BevTest Judging Panel described the Tequila as featuring aromas of 'warm maple syrup, Demerara with chopped nuts, and baker's chocolate, followed by flavors of dark chocolate, cigar ash, and sandalwood. A bold and intense Extra Añejo sipper.' 1800 Tequila Holiday Dinner With Designer & Curator Greg Yuna(Photo byfor 1800 Tequila) Score: 93 - Gold Medal–Exceptional Produced by Casa Cuervo, 1800 Cristalino is a charcoal-filtered Añejo Tequila that removes color while retaining complex flavors. It combines the aging process of an Extra Añejo with crisp modern appeal. The official BevTest Judging Panel described the Tequila as featuring aromas of 'coconut dulce de leche, heated stones, and fresh ream of paper with flavors of chipotle, parmesan, and cream cheese. The complexity of an Extra Anejo in a crisp, tailored white Armani suit, stylish and grounded in high-quality agave.' Score: 92 - Gold Medal–Exceptional Patrón's Cristalino blends aged complexity with polished smoothness. It undergoes charcoal filtration to remove color while preserving flavors from ex-bourbon barrels. The official BevTest Judging Panel described the Tequila as featuring aromas of 'white pepper, caramel, and agave fibers accompanied by flavors of preserved lemon, vanilla salt, and crème anglaise. Impeccably balanced and clean with notes of cultured salted butter, extra virgin olive oil, vanilla, and fresh biscuits.' Score: 91 - Gold Medal–Exceptional Agavales Cristalino is a filtered Reposado that offers a bright, tropical profile with the roundness of brief oak aging and the clarity of a Blanco. The official BevTest Judging Panel described the Tequila as featuring aromas of 'spring, coconut water, and roasted coconut flakes on frosted white cake with flavors of spicy banana bread pudding, pepper, and white chocolate. A supple, vibrantly flavorful Cristalino with excellent versatility.' These seven Tequilas showcase a range of aroma and flavor profiles. The Extra Añejo expressions offer a classic aged Tequila profile that retains its agave core, surrounded by the added complexity and flavors provided by extended oak aging. The Cristalinos, on the other hand, while retaining the agave and oak influence, also offer a cleaner, fresher style that blends a layered, nuanced complexity with a lighter, crisper style. If you like brown spirits, all of these Extra Añejo Tequilas deserve a place on your shelf. If you're looking for a lighter style that still retains the complexity afforded by oak aging, consider exploring the Cristalino expressions. Either way, you won't go wrong with any of these Tequila bottles.
Forbes
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Forbes
The Top Reposado Tequila, According To The Beverage Testing Institute
A shot glass of Reposado Tequila with salt and lime getty Eight Reposado Tequilas were awarded Gold Medals at the 2025 Beverage Testing Institute (BevTest) Tequila Judging. Tequila Ocho Reposado was the top-rated reposado Tequila. Below is a brief background on each of the gold medalists, along with the official BevTest tasting notes on the Top Reposado Tequilas. Score: 95 - Gold Medal–Exceptional Tequila Ocho is crafted by Carlos Camarena at Tequilera Los Alambiques in Arandas, located in the Jalisco Highlands. Known for pioneering the single-estate tequila movement, Ocho is deeply committed to terroir-driven expressions of agave. Their reposado tequilas rest briefly in used American oak to preserve agave character while gaining subtle richness. A process that Camarena describes as 'being kissed by the oak.' The official BevTest Judging Panel described the Reposado as featuring 'aromas of vegetal agave, delicate oak, and brown banana, followed by marzipan, purple fruits, and white blossoms. Subtle floral notes come through the spicy agave elements in this remarkable, elegant Reposado.' Score: 94 - Gold Medal–Exceptional Produced at El Pandillo distillery by Felipe Camarena, G4 Reposado is recognized for its distinctive water blend, comprising 50% rainwater and 50% spring water. G4 emphasizes mineral purity and pronounced agave flavor. The reposado is aged in used bourbon barrels to develop depth while retaining crisp agave notes. The official BevTest Judging Panel described the Reposado as featuring 'aromas of grilled pomelo, white chocolate, and pastry, followed by flavors of salted cashews, caramel, and cinnamon bark. With the complexity and layered flavors of an Añejo and the minerally citrusy agave shining brightly through of a Blanco, this reposado is the best of both worlds and will elevate any well-constructed cocktail.' Score: 93 - Gold Medal–Exceptional El Ateo is a boutique tequila brand known for its edgy branding and artisanal quality. Its reposado is aged in American oak and prized for its creamy texture and gently spicy finish. The official BevTest Judging Panel described the Reposado as featuring 'aromas of caramel, sandalwood, and limestone, followed by flavors of Fresno chili, light roast coffee, and maple pancakes. Warm, satisfying and lightly spicy, this reposado will add a punch to your margarita and light on its feet richness.' Score: 92 - Gold Medal–Exceptional Seis Puertas blends tradition with contemporary flavor profiles. Known for their commitment to sustainable agave farming and local craft, their reposado strikes a balance between freshness and depth. The official BevTest Judging Panel described the Reposado as featuring 'aromas of limestone, citrus zest, and dried flowers with additional flavors of caramel corn, mango yogurt, and spiced pecans. On the verge of Añejo smoothness and complexity, this Tequila maintains its agave essence - a must-have for a fresh-squeezed lime and agave nectar Margarita.' A bottle of Reposado Tequila and shot glasses. getty Score: 92 - Gold Medal–Exceptional Patrón El Alto is a premium Tequila that showcases meticulous blending and extended barrel aging. Combining highland agave and ex-bourbon cask influence, it emphasizes fruity and floral complexity with a smooth finish. The official BevTest Judging Panel described the Reposado as featuring 'aromas of candied orange, jammy fruits, and vanilla, followed by flavors of apricots, lavender, and coconuts. Delicious and balanced agave and oak notes elevate this reposado to a pleasing sipper. Score: 91 - Gold Medal–Exceptional Distilled at Destilería Cascahuín, Siempre is a contemporary brand that showcases creative cask blending, pushing the style boundaries of Reposado Tequila. The official BevTest Judging Panel described the Reposado as featuring 'aromas of caramel cake, roasted tropical fruits, and cumin accompanied by flavors of caramelized nuts, flan with cayenne, and sweet spices. A robust, flavor-packed reposado with nice depth, length, and warmth.' Score: 90 - Gold Medal–Exceptional 4 Copas was one of the first certified organic Tequilas. Emphasizing organic agave cultivation and minimal intervention, their reposado is aged in American oak barrels for a natural expression of agave and spice. The official BevTest Judging Panel described the Reposado as featuring 'aromas of toasted oats, crushed nuts, and white tea with additional flavors of grilled pineapple, pepper, and date syrup. Toasted nuts, salted caramel, and crisp Granny Smith apples flavors will add a delightful richness to a hand-shaken agave-lime Margarita.' Score: 90 - Gold Medal–Exceptional One of the oldest and most iconic names in Tequila, Jose Cuervo's Tradicional Reposado offers a historic connection to 18th-century Tequila making. This expression is aged in American oak for several months to add flavor complexity while maintaining its core agave character. The official BevTest Judging Panel described the Reposado as featuring 'aromas of burnt sugar, apple compote, and Graham crackers, followed by brown sugar, pink peppercorn, and peanut brittle—a straightforward Reposado with sweet agave and oak notes that enhance the drinking experience. Reposados are among the most intriguing Tequilas available, offering a delicate balance between the vegetative and herbaceous profile of a Blanco, while also providing the complexity and expanded aroma and flavor profile of oak aging. Reposados can be more Blanco-like or more Anejo-like depending on the degree of oak aging. These Reposados are outstanding, offering a broad array of aroma and flavor profiles that range from the fruity and mineral-induced terroirs of the highlands to the vegetative and herbaceous character of lowland agave. Regardless of your taste, you are bound to find a Reposado Tequila that suits your palate.
Forbes
5 days ago
- General
- Forbes
The Top Anejo Tequila, According To The Beverage Testing Institute
Three shot glasses of Añejo tequila. Seven Añejo Tequilas were awarded Gold Medals at the 2025 Beverage Testing Institute (BevTest) Tequila Judging. 1800 Guachimonton Añejo Tequila was the top-rated Añejo Tequila. Below is a brief background on each of the gold medalists, along with the official BevTest tasting notes on the Top Anejo Tequilas. Score: 94 - Gold Medal–Exceptional Made at Casa Cuervo, this limited expression under the 1800 line is named after the ancient Guachimonton circular pyramids of Jalisco. It showcases heritage and modern technique in a unique aged profile. The Official BevTest Judging Panel described the Tequila as featuring aromas of 'spiced orange, sandalwood, and orange oils followed by flavors of Grand Marnier, menthol, and anise. A distinctively minty and cooling Añejo Tequila that captivates the mind and palate.' Score: 92 - Gold Medal–Exceptional Crafted at Destilería Cascahuín, this Tequila honors the Flores family's artisanal roots. Known for bold flavors and clean, natural distillation, it blends spice and sweetness with barrel richness. The Official BevTest Judging Panel described the Tequila as featuring aromas of 'roasted serranos, turtle truffles, and chocolate-covered bacon followed by overtones of pipe tobacco, nougat, and orange blossom honey. This lightly spicy anejo has decadent notes of chocolate and bacon that tango with notes of dried mango, spice cake, and pipe tobacco.' Score: 92 - Gold Medal–Exceptional Southbound Añejo emphasizes American oak aging and a smooth, spiced profile. It's aged for more than a year in Tennessee whiskey barrels. It appeals to new tequila drinkers and bourbon fans with its layered dessert-like aromas. The Official BevTest Judging Panel described the Tequila as featuring aromas of 'vanilla spice cake, honey, and allspice, accompanied by flavors of cinnamon oil, almond joy, and spiced pecans. Anejo for sipping neat or on one big rock to let its layers of maple-caramel-spice show off.' Score: 92 - Gold Medal–Exceptional Founded by George Clooney and partners and now owned by Diageo, the Casamigos brand is known for its smooth, approachable style. This Añejo delivers dessert-like flavors with a velvety, easy-drinking profile. The Official BevTest Judging Panel described the Tequila as featuring aromas of 'vanilla pastry, dark chocolate, and red jammy fruits, followed by flavors of chocolate banana pancakes, green banana, and caramel. This añejo tequila is a chocolate, caramel popcorn treat with a full-bodied, buttery finish.' A shot glass of Añejo Tequila, served with salt and lime. Score: 92 - Gold Medal–Exceptional Aged in French and American oak, 1800 Añejo is a staple in Casa Cuervo's premium range. It offers balanced oak and spice notes, ideal for whiskey drinkers seeking a rich Tequila experience. The Official BevTest Judging Panel described the Tequila as featuring aromas of 'toasty coconut, banana cream pies with a touch of molasses, and spicy tropical fruit compote followed by flavors of spice cake, mixed peppercorns, and vanilla cola. A delicious and satisfying añejo with lovely layers of fruit and spice; try in your favorite whiskey cocktails.' Score: 92 - Gold Medal–Exceptional Produced by Carlos Camarena at Tequilera Los Alambiques in Arandas, in the Jalisco Highlands, Tequila Ocho is renowned for its single-estate releases and pure agave expression. The Official BevTest Judging Panel described the Tequila as featuring aromas of 'agave, olive brine, and chalk, followed by flavors of Italian spices, ginger, and mace. Pair this tasty Añejo with a creamy dessert for a spicy, nutty delight.' Score: 90 - Gold Medal–Exceptional From the largest and oldest tequila producer, the Tradicional Añejo is aged in both American and French oak. It bridges the styles of tequila and whiskey with rich caramel, smoke, and spiced flavors. The Official BevTest Judging Panel described the Tequila as featuring aromas of 'salted caramel, grilled pineapple, and toasted marshmallows, followed by smoked tea, candied chipotle, and pralines. Anejo Tequila to convert Scotch, Aged Rum, and Rye lovers over to Tequila - smoked walnuts, Bourbon vanilla, and pralines all day for an international style brown spirit.' These seven Añejo Tequilas are excellent and will appeal to Tequila aficionados as well as brown spirit lovers of whiskey and rum. They are all outstanding, showcasing traditional agave aroma and flavor profiles, with notes of caramel, vanilla, and spice from the oak. Whether as a base for a cocktail or straight up, these Añejo Tequilas are an outstanding addition to your Tequila collection.
Forbes
16-04-2025
- Business
- Forbes
The Top International Gin, According To The Beverage Testing Institute
Ramsbury Single Estate Gin Six international gin brands were awarded Gold Medals at the 2025 Beverage Testing Institute (BevTest) Gin Judging. Ramsbury Single Estate Gin from England was the top-ranked international gin. As with the US gin judging, the Gold Medal winners were dominated by craft brands. Below are the official tasting notes on BevTest's Top International Gins. Ramsbury is a premium London Dry gin crafted entirely on the Ramsbury Estate in Wiltshire, England. This "field to bottle" approach ensures complete control over every production stage, from cultivating Horatio wheat to distillation and bottling. The estate-grown wheat mash is distilled through a 43-plate copper column still, producing an exceptionally smooth base spirit. The gin incorporates a blend of 14 botanicals, including locally sourced juniper, quince, citrus peels, angelica root, coriander, bitter almond, and cinnamon. The gin is fresh and clean on the nose with a pronounced juniper-forward character, along with pine and fresh citrus notes. Subtle aromas of quince, ripe grapes, and a slight, candied Juicy Fruit gum-like sweetness add complexity. It's smooth and rich on the palate, featuring classic juniper and citrus flavors complemented by woody angelica, bitter almond, and spicy cinnamon. The quince imparts a gentle fruitiness, while hints of orris root and pepper add depth. The finish is long and silky, with lingering spice and delicate floral notes. The BevTest Judging Panel described the gin as featuring: Aromas of spicy fruit cake with hazelnut-pistachio frosting, citrus marmalade on golden raisin toast, and ginger snap. The aromas follow through to the palate along with notes of mango-peach chutney, juniper jelly, and cardamom custard. A powerful, almost bombastic parade of fruit, spice, herb aromas and flavors makes this a memorable gin for the finest cocktails. Ramsbury Single Estate Gin is a versatile spirit that is suitable for various cocktails. Its pronounced juniper character pairs well with Indian tonic water, garnished with a slice of green apple and lime, and makes for an excellent G&T. Its smoothness also makes it an excellent choice for a classic Dry Martini, offering a wide range of delightful cocktail experiences. Ramsbury Gin has received multiple awards, including Gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition. Eden Mill St. Andrews Golf Gin St. Andrews Golf Gin is a limited-edition release from Eden Mill Distillery in St. Andrews, Scotland—the 'Home of Golf.' This gin celebrates the town's golfing heritage and was designed with botanicals inspired by the traditional golf course landscape. Eden Mill, known for being Scotland's first combined brewery and distillery, produces this gin in small batches. The Golf Gin is part of their craft gin range and pays tribute to golf's roots in St. Andrews. The botanicals used include juniper, as the classic base; heather, lavender, and pine needles, evoking the floral and woody scent of golf course roughs. Sea Buckthorn, a signature Scottish botanical, mint, and lemon balm add a refreshing, herbaceous character. The gin is presented in a golf ball-patterned white ceramic bottle, making it collectible and thematic. It's an ideal gift for a golfer! The gin's nose is fresh and fragrant, with floral tones of lavender and heather complemented by crisp pine and a whisper of mint. It's robust and flavorful on the palate, showing classic juniper alongside earthy heather, resinous pine, and a soft citrus sweetness. Subtle mint and lemon balm add a cooling note. The finish is clean and dry with lingering green herbaceousness and a faint maritime salinity. The BevTest Judging Panel described the gin as expressing: Aromas of lavender, medicated balm, and pine blossom. The palate features additional notes of candied lemon peel, fresh cracked juniper on melon, and berry nonpareils. A vivacious, juniper-forward London Dry gin with an earthy, herbaceousness that complements savory cocktails nicely. Enjoyed best in a classic G&T with a sprig of rosemary or mint and a wedge of lemon or served in a Martini with a floral twist. Gin & Tonic with rosemary and cucumber Highclere Castle Gin is an ultra-premium London Dry gin produced at the historic Highclere Castle estate in Hampshire, England, famously known as the filming location of Downton Abbey. Launched in 2019, Highclere Castle Gin is crafted using botanicals grown in the castle's ancient gardens, which date back to the 9th century. The gin is distilled at Langley Distillery, one of England's oldest distilleries, with centuries of gin-making heritage. The recipe was developed in partnership with the Earl and Countess of Carnarvon, owners of Highclere Castle, and spirits entrepreneur Adam von Gootkin. The gin uses a blend of ten botanicals, including juniper, coriander, cardamom, and lemon peel. It also uses lavender and orange peel sourced from the castle's gardens. Estate-grown oats are used to create an exceptionally creamy mouthfeel. The BevTest Judging Panel described the Highclere Castle Gin as showcasing: Aromas of juniper, pine fronds, and lemon zest. Those flavors are followed by accents of pine forest, yellow cake, and fresh citrus. Classic London Dry for cocktailing, this well-constructed gin with yellow cake and fresh citrus notes will support your drink and not get in the way. Atian is a South African rose gin. The BevTest Judging Panel described it as exhibiting: Aromas of rose petals, pink peppercorns, and eucalyptus. The palate features spruce tips, candied Meyer lemon, and hibiscus. Impeccably balanced; a meadow in bloom captured in a glass. Martin Miller's is another perennial medalist in international gin competitions. The BevTest Judging Panel described the gin as expressing: Aromas of blood orange, cucumber, and rose water. The palate features similar flavors along with melon, black walnut, and black currant tea notes—a graceful, well-balanced gin with attractive fruit and floral tones and a hint of warm spice. The BevTest Judging Panel described the gin as featuring: Aromas of candied lime, lemon balm, and watermelon with cucumbers. The palate shows similar flavors with accents of lemon custard, sorbet, and golden plum skin. Citrus forward new school Gin with a bit of tension on the palate, begging to be stirred and enjoyed as the center of attention to open it up fully. Craft distillers increasingly dominate international gin competitions, each pushing gin's aroma and flavor boundaries in new and unexpected directions. These six gins span the globe, from Scotland to South Africa. They present an array of profiles, from juniper-intensive to subtle floral contemporary style gin. These gin expressions are excellent. The juniper-intensive ones, like Ramsbury and Highclere Castle, are ideal for gin-based cocktails where an assertive gin presence is perfect. These top-ranked gins are perfect if you have a passion for G&T or a powerful Negroni. Consider the other gins on this list if you want a more subtle layered complexity in a gin Martini. If you're going to explore world-class gins, this list of Gold Medal Gins from the Beverage Testing Institute is a good place to start. For additional recommendations of top-ranked gins, see Six New Gins You Must Try and The World's Best Gin For The Perfect Gin & Tonic.
