A Review of Casamigos Tequila

I recently had the opportunity to try Casamigos Tequila, a brand co-founded by George Clooney, and I was impressed with what I tasted. Casamigos offers three different types: blanco, reposado, and añejo, each with its unique flavor profile. I tried all three and was pleasantly surprised by the quality of each.

The Casamigos Blanco Tequila has a light, fruit-driven taste with notes of papaya, guava, and vanilla. It has a refreshing agave freshness that leads to a slightly medicinal vanilla-noted finish.

The Casamigos Reposado Tequila, on the other hand, is a bright and fresh agave-based spirit that tastes more like an añejo than a reposado. It has a smooth and complex flavor profile with hints of caramel and vanilla.

Finally, the Casamigos Añejo Tequila has a bright, clean agave and tropical fruit notes with a lingering fruit-and-spice finish. It’s an excellent sipper that is also approachable enough to be brought into cocktails.

Overall, I would highly recommend giving Casamigos Tequila a try. Whether you prefer a light and fruity blanco, a smooth and complex reposado, or a robust and aged añejo, Casamigos has something for everyone. Plus, with its celebrity ties and high-quality taste, it’s sure to impress at your next gathering or event.

History of Casamigos Tequila

Casamigos Tequila was founded in 2013 by George Clooney, Rande Gerber, and Mike Meldman. The idea for the brand came about while Clooney and Gerber were vacationing in Mexico and realized they couldn’t find a tequila that they truly enjoyed drinking.

After spending time in the region and sampling various tequilas, they decided to create their own. They enlisted the help of Meldman, a real estate developer, to help them create a brand that would stand out in the crowded tequila market.

The name Casamigos, which translates to “house of friends,” was chosen to reflect the brand’s focus on friendship and good times. The trio spent the next two years working with a master distiller in Jalisco, Mexico, to perfect their recipe for a smooth and flavorful tequila.

Casamigos quickly gained a following among tequila enthusiasts and celebrities alike. One of the brand’s most high-profile fans is Cindy Crawford, who is married to Rande Gerber.

In 2017, Diageo bought the brand for a reported $1 billion. Despite the acquisition, Clooney and Gerber have remained involved in the brand’s operations and continue to promote it as a premium tequila option.

Today, Casamigos offers a range of tequilas, including Blanco, Reposado, and Añejo. Each variety is made from 100% blue weber agave and is aged for different lengths of time to create unique flavor profiles. The brand’s tequilas have won numerous awards and are known for their smoothness and versatility in cocktails.

Process and Distillery

As I researched for my Casamigos Tequila review, I found that the distillery is located in Jalisco, Mexico, which is known for its rich, red, clay soil and cool climate. Casamigos researched master distillers and distilleries throughout Mexico before selecting Jalisco as the base for its own distillery.

The process of making Casamigos Tequila starts with the agave piñas, which are harvested by hand and roasted in traditional brick ovens for 72 hours. The roasted piñas are then crushed to extract their juices, which are fermented for 80 hours in stainless steel tanks with proprietary yeast strains.

After fermentation, the tequila is distilled twice in a stainless steel pot still with a copper coil. This process helps to remove impurities and create a smooth, clean flavor profile.

Once distilled, the tequila is aged in oak barrels for seven months for the Reposado and 14 months for the Añejo. The aging process gives the tequila its rich, complex flavors and aromas.

The distillery where Casamigos Tequila is produced is certified by the Mexican government and has a NOM (Norma Oficial Mexicana) number, which ensures that the tequila is made according to strict standards and regulations.

Overall, the process and distillery used by Casamigos Tequila are top-notch, and it shows in the quality of the final product.

Tasting Notes

As I take a sip of Casamigos Tequila Añejo, I am immediately struck by the pale gold color and the aroma of agave, vanilla, and caramel. Upon further inspection, I detect notes of tropical fruit, such as papaya and banana, as well as burnt orange. On the palate, the tequila has a spicy and oaky character, with hints of grassy agave. The oak tannins and alcohol provide a bite that competes with the agave.

Moving on to the Casamigos Reposado, I find that it has a bright and clean oak character, with notes of tropical fruit and agave. The finish is short-to-medium, and the tequila tastes more like an añejo than a reposado. However, I do note that comparable tequilas can be found for $10 to $20 less. As the tequila sits, it becomes less complex and may not impress hard-core tequila fans due to the vanilla overtones and general sweetness.

Finally, the Casamigos Blanco has a crystal-clear appearance, with a light to medium viscosity and very short legs. The initial nosing reveals a heavy vanilla note, with not much in the way of grass or agave-fruit. As it opens up, there is a hint of tropical fruit, perhaps papaya or guava. In general, it has a fairly one-note bouquet.

Overall, the Casamigos Tequila line is oak-forward, with a medium viscosity and a character that is both peppery and grassy. The añejo has a more complex flavor profile, with notes of cinnamon, black pepper, and citrus, while the reposado is brighter and fruitier. The blanco is the lightest of the three, with a heavy vanilla note and a hint of tropical fruit. All three are made from 100% blue weber agave from the highlands of Jalisco, Mexico and are worth trying for any tequila enthusiast.

Pairing and Cocktails

When it comes to pairing Casamigos Tequila with food, there are no hard and fast rules. However, I find that the spicy and smoky notes of an Añejo Casamigos Tequila pair well with grilled meats and vegetables, while the crisp and clean taste of a Blanco Casamigos Tequila complements seafood and light salads.

But let’s talk about cocktails. Casamigos Tequila is a versatile spirit that can be used in a variety of cocktails. One classic cocktail that is perfect for Casamigos Tequila is the Margarita. The combination of tequila, lime juice, and orange liqueur creates a refreshing and tangy drink that is perfect for sipping on a hot summer day.

If you want to try something different, I recommend trying a Negroni with Casamigos Reposado Tequila. The bold and complex flavor of the Reposado Tequila pairs well with the bitterness of Campari and the sweetness of vermouth.

When it comes to mixed drinks, the possibilities are endless. Casamigos Tequila is a great base for any cocktail that requires tequila. Some of my personal favorites include the Paloma, the Tequila Sunrise, and the Bloody Maria.

No matter what cocktail you choose, make sure to use high-quality ingredients and fresh garnishes. A good cocktail is all about balance, so experiment with different ratios of tequila, mixers, and garnishes until you find the perfect combination.

Types of Casamigos Tequila

Casamigos offers three distinct types of tequila: Blanco, Reposado, and Anejo. Each type is made using 100% Blue Weber agave, which is harvested between seven and nine years old.

Blanco Tequila

Casamigos Blanco Tequila is unaged and has a crystal-clear appearance. It has a sweet and bright opening, with an anchor of desirable agave freshness on the nose. Midpalate, it’s light-bodied with a pronounced agave, banana, papaya, and vanilla character. At the back of the palate, there’s a touch of black pepper and more vanilla, plus a hint of a medicinal note. It is perfect for sipping or as a base for cocktails.

Reposado Tequila

Casamigos Reposado Tequila is aged for seven months in American white oak barrels. It has bright, clean oak, tropical fruit, and agave notes with a short-to-medium finish. It tastes more like an añejo than a reposado. However, the longer it sits, the less complex it gets. Hard-core tequila fans may not be impressed by the vanilla overtones and general “sweetness.” It is perfect for sipping or as a base for cocktails.

Anejo Tequila

Casamigos Anejo Tequila is aged for 14 months in American white oak barrels. It has a beautiful golden color and a smooth, rich flavor. It has a silky texture with a long, warm finish. It has notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak, with a hint of spice. It is perfect for sipping or as a base for cocktails.

Casamigos Mezcal

Casamigos also offers a mezcal made from 100% Espadin agave. It is sweet, smooth, and low in proof, with a good amount of tobacco hints, creating an easy tequila drink. The tasting notes aren’t that smoky, and the smoothness balances the profile, making for a good and satisfying drink.

Comparison with Other Brands

When it comes to tequila, there are a lot of options on the market. As someone who has tried a variety of tequila brands, I can confidently say that Casamigos stands out from the rest. Don Julio is another popular brand, but in my opinion, Casamigos has a smoother taste and is more enjoyable to drink straight.

For those who are fans of mezcal, Casamigos may not be the best choice. Mezcal has a distinct smoky flavor that sets it apart from tequila, and Casamigos does not have that same flavor profile. However, if you’re looking for a high-quality tequila, Casamigos is definitely worth trying.

Avion, Espolòn, and Olmeca Altos are all solid tequila brands, but Casamigos is my personal favorite. It has a unique flavor that is both smooth and complex. Patrón is another popular tequila brand, but in my experience, it can be a bit harsh compared to Casamigos.

In terms of price, Casamigos is definitely on the higher end of the spectrum. However, I believe that the quality of the tequila justifies the price. It’s not something I would drink every day, but it’s definitely worth splurging on for special occasions or when you want to treat yourself.

Overall, I highly recommend Casamigos tequila to anyone who is looking for a high-quality, smooth, and enjoyable tequila experience. While there are other good tequila brands out there, Casamigos stands out as one of the best.

Public Perception and Reviews

Casamigos Tequila has gained a lot of popularity in recent years, and it has received a lot of positive reviews from tequila enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike. As someone who has tried Casamigos Tequila, I can attest to its smoothness and unique flavor profile.

One of the things that sets Casamigos Tequila apart from other tequilas is the fact that it is made from 100% Blue Weber Agave. This gives it a distinct flavor that is both fruity and sweet. The tequila is also aged in American white oak barrels for two months (in the case of the Blanco) and seven months (in the case of the Añejo), which gives it a smooth finish and a hint of vanilla.

Casamigos Tequila is produced in Jalisco, Mexico, which is known for producing some of the smoothest tequilas in the world. The agave used to make Casamigos Tequila is grown in the rich red clay and cool climate of Jalisco, which gives it a unique flavor profile that is both fruity and spicy.

One of the things that I appreciate about Casamigos Tequila is that it is crystal-clear and has no burn. This makes it easy to drink straight or mix into cocktails without worrying about getting a hangover the next day. The tequila also has a portfolio of different expressions, including Blanco, Reposado, and Añejo, which cater to different tastes and preferences.

Overall, Casamigos Tequila has received positive reviews from both casual drinkers and tequila enthusiasts. While some agave purists may balk at the sweeter flavor profile, most people appreciate the unique taste and smooth finish of this tequila. It’s no wonder that even celebrities like Stacy Keibler have been spotted drinking Casamigos Tequila.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the differences between Casamigos Blanco and Anejo tequila?

Casamigos Blanco tequila is unaged and has a crystal-clear color with a light to medium viscosity. It has a sweet flavor profile that might turn off some agave purists. On the other hand, Casamigos Anejo tequila is aged for 14 months in American white oak barrels, which gives it a golden color and a smooth, rich taste with notes of caramel and vanilla.

How does Casamigos compare to other top-shelf tequila brands?

Casamigos tequila has gained popularity among tequila enthusiasts due to its smooth and easy-drinking taste. It is often compared to other top-shelf tequila brands like Don Julio, Patrón, and Clase Azul. While Casamigos may not have the same level of complexity as some of these brands, it is a great choice for those who are looking for a high-quality tequila that is easy to drink.

Is Casamigos worth the price tag?

Casamigos tequila is priced higher than some other popular tequila brands, but many people believe that it is worth the price tag. Its smooth taste and high-quality ingredients make it a great choice for sipping or mixing into cocktails. However, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and budget.

What makes Casamigos tequila unique?

Casamigos tequila is unique because it was created by two friends, George Clooney and Rande Gerber, who wanted to create a tequila that they could enjoy with their friends. They worked with a master distiller in Jalisco, Mexico, to create a tequila that was smooth and easy to drink. Casamigos is also made from 100% Blue Weber agave, which is grown in the red clay and cool climate of the Jalisco Highlands.

Who owns Casamigos tequila?

Casamigos tequila is owned by George Clooney, Rande Gerber, and Mike Meldman. The three friends started the company in 2013, and it was later acquired by Diageo, a multinational alcoholic beverages company, in 2017.

Can you taste the vanilla notes in Casamigos tequila?

Yes, Casamigos Anejo tequila has notes of vanilla, along with caramel and oak. These flavors come from the American white oak barrels in which the tequila is aged. However, the vanilla notes are not as pronounced in Casamigos Blanco or Reposado tequila.