Gran Centenario Leyenda Extra Anejo (750Ml)

Description

Gran Centenario Leyenda Extra Añejo is the top bottle in the Gran Centenario family. Leyenda means legend, and this tequila has a long story behind it. The brand traces the recipe to its founder, Lázaro Gallardo. He first made this blend for his most distinguished guests and his closest family. The recipe is more than 150 years old. Leyenda was also among the first tequilas ever classified as Extra Añejo. Today it comes from the Casa Cuervo distillery under NOM 1122. The Beverage Testing Institute lists Proximo Spirits as the producer.

It starts with 100% blue agave. The agave is handpicked and cooked in clay ovens. The juice is then double-distilled in copper stills. Next, the tequila rests in oak barrels for about four years on average. Then comes the Selección Suave step, the house blending method. Here the aged tequila is married with reserves aged up to 15 years. In the glass it shows a deep amber color with bright copper sparks. It is bottled at 40% ABV.

The brand's tasting notes start with an intense nose of apple, pear and quince. Raisins sit just underneath. The palate opens with subtle, sweet wood tones. Nutshell and maple follow, then eucalyptus, clove and a touch of thyme. The finish is long, complex and smooth, with every part in balance. Its slogan says it well: sip slowly and savor.

Critics have found plenty more to talk about. VinePair picked up raisins, dried figs, vanilla and agave syrup, with cedar and tobacco box on the palate. Drinkhacker noted spearmint, orange oil and creamy vanilla bean. Its reviewer found the finish clean and crisp, with baking spice, caramel and mint. Tequila.net describes oak, maple, roasted almonds and cloves on the nose. Its finish there is long and warm, with a hint of cinnamon. Drinkhacker also saw a deep rose gold hue and called the nose bright, not overly oaky. Earlier Tequila.net reviewers noted vanilla, mild caramel and earthy fruit, with a touch of smoke on the finish. Each taster finds a slightly different mix. Still, sweet wood, dried fruit and spice keep coming up.

The scores back up that reputation. The Beverage Testing Institute gave Leyenda 94 points and a Gold Medal in 2022. Its 2024 listing shows a score of 96 points. The panel called it smoky, sweet and savory. It noted cedar, pine tar, barrel-burned sugar, coffee bean and banana. The institute also found that it works neat or in cocktails. VinePair rated it 94 points and calls it a four-year-old extra añejo. Drinkhacker gave it 9.5 out of 10, an A grade. Tequila.net readers average 86 points across four reviews. Those marks place it among the most respected fine tequilas you can pour.

Gran Centenario pitches it for after-dinner sipping or refined cocktails. The brand's perfect serve is simple. Pour 2 ounces neat into a tequila flute, skip the garnish, and sip slowly. A tulip-shaped glass works well too. If you like it a little cooler, add one large ice cube. Like any good Extra Añejo, it rewards patience. Food can bring out even more. Try it with roasted lamb or a good steak. Aged manchego or a creamy blue cheese plays nicely against its sweetness. For dessert, reach for dark chocolate or crème brûlée. It also makes a fine gift, or a proud addition to your spirits collection.

Product Details

• UPC: 811538014335
• Bottle Size: 750ml
• ABV: 40%
• Origin / Country: Jalisco, Mexico
• Type: Extra Añejo Tequila
• Brand: Gran Centenario
• Agave: 100% blue agave
• Age Statement: About 4 years on average, blended with reserves aged up to 15 years (Selección Suave)
• Cask Type: Oak barrels
• Awards: Gold Medal, 94 points, Beverage Testing Institute 2022; 96 points, Beverage Testing Institute 2024
• Recommended Pairing: Roasted lamb or steak, aged manchego, dark chocolate
• Mixing Suggestion: Sip neat in a tequila flute, or with a single large ice cube
• Taste Profile: Sweet wood, nutshell, maple, eucalyptus, clove, thyme
• Aroma & Bouquet: Apple, pear, quince, raisins
• Smooth & Finish: Long, complex, balanced and smooth