Tequila Review #4: The King of the Bottom Shelf Jose Cuervo Especial Gold
When it comes to tequila, there are many options to choose from. Some are top shelf, with a hefty price tag and a reputation for excellence. Others, however, are located on the bottom shelf, often overlooked and dismissed as cheap and low-quality. One such tequila that often finds itself in this category is Jose Cuervo Especial Gold.
Now, let me start by saying that I am by no means a tequila snob. I enjoy exploring all types of tequila, from the high-end varieties to the more affordable options. So, when I came across a bottle of Jose Cuervo Especial Gold on the bottom shelf of my local liquor store, I decided to give it a try.
Appearance:
The first thing that struck me about Jose Cuervo Especial Gold was its color. It has a rich, golden hue that is quite appealing. The tequila itself is clear and free of any impurities. It looks inviting and makes you want to pour yourself a glass.
Nose:
Upon giving it a sniff, I was greeted with a strong aroma of cooked agave, along with hints of caramel and vanilla. It was a pleasant and inviting scent that made me even more excited to taste the tequila.
Taste:
Taking my first sip, I was pleasantly surprised by the smoothness of Jose Cuervo Especial Gold. It had a velvety texture that coated my palate, allowing me to fully appreciate the flavors. The taste was a combination of sweet and earthy notes, with the cooked agave shining through. There was also a subtle hint of oak, which added some depth to the overall profile.
Finish:
The finish of Jose Cuervo Especial Gold was medium in length, leaving a warm and lingering sensation in my mouth. It was neither too harsh nor too mild, striking a nice balance. The flavors gradually faded away, leaving a pleasant aftertaste that made me want to take another sip.
Value:
Now, let's talk about the elephant in the room: the price. Jose Cuervo Especial Gold is often considered a bottom shelf tequila due to its affordability. It is certainly not the most expensive tequila on the market, but that doesn't mean it should be dismissed as low-quality. In fact, I believe it offers great value for the price. It may not have the complexity and refinement of some higher-end tequilas, but it holds its own and delivers a satisfying drinking experience.
Versatility:
One of the great things about Jose Cuervo Especial Gold is its versatility. While it can certainly be enjoyed neat or on the rocks, it also works well in cocktails. Its sweet and smooth profile makes it a great base for margaritas and other tequila-based drinks. So, if you're looking for a tequila that can be enjoyed in multiple ways, Jose Cuervo Especial Gold is a solid choice.
Personal Experience:
I must admit, I was initially skeptical about trying Jose Cuervo Especial Gold. Its reputation as a bottom shelf tequila had me questioning its quality. However, after giving it a fair chance, I was pleasantly surprised by its taste and overall drinking experience. It may not be the most premium tequila out there, but it certainly holds its own and offers a great value for the price.
Jose Cuervo Especial Gold may be considered a bottom shelf tequila, but that doesn't mean it should be disregarded. It offers a smooth and flavorful drinking experience, with enough complexity to keep things interesting. Whether you're sipping it neat, on the rocks, or in a cocktail, it delivers a satisfying tequila experience. So, the next time you find yourself perusing the bottom shelf at your local liquor store, don't be afraid to give Jose Cuervo Especial Gold a chance. It just might surprise you.