When you think of fine tequila, Don Julio is one of the first names that comes to mind. Known for smooth, flavorful spirits, Don Julio has become a favorite among tequila lovers around the world. One of the most unique and celebrated tequilas in their collection is Don Julio 70.
Created to honor 70 years of tequila-making excellence, Don Julio 70 combines tradition with a fresh new twist. It brings together the deep flavors of aged tequila with the clean, clear look of a Blanco. But how is that possible? Let’s take a closer look at what makes this tequila so special.
What Is Don Julio 70?
Don Julio 70 is a special kind of tequila called Añejo Claro. It was launched in 2011 to mark the 70th anniversary of Don Julio González’s tequila-making journey.
Here’s what sets it apart:
It’s aged like an Añejo (18 months in American white oak bourbon barrels).
Then, it’s filtered with charcoal to remove the color and some heavier notes.
The result? A crystal-clear tequila with the smoothness of a Blanco and the rich flavors of an Añejo.
It’s truly the best of both worlds.
History Behind Don Julio 70
The story of Don Julio 70 begins with Don Julio González, a young man with a passion for making the best tequila. In 1942, at just 17 years old, he began producing tequila in the highlands of Jalisco, Mexico.
Over the decades, his attention to detail and care for the craft made Don Julio a leader in the industry. His tequilas became known for their smooth taste, quality ingredients, and innovative methods.
In 2011, Don Julio 70 was created to celebrate 70 years since Don Julio started his journey. It was the first Añejo Claro tequila ever released, marking a bold step forward while honoring the past.
How It’s Made
The process of making Don Julio 70 is what gives it its unique flavor and clarity. Here’s how it’s done:
Blue Weber Agave – It starts with hand-selected blue agave grown in the rich soil of Jalisco.
Slow Cooking – The agave is roasted in traditional ovens to bring out its natural sweetness.
Fermentation & Distillation – The juice is fermented and double-distilled for purity.
Aging – The tequila is aged for 18 months in American white oak bourbon barrels, which gives it a deep flavor.
Charcoal Filtration – After aging, it is filtered to remove the color and soften the taste, resulting in a clear tequila with rich aged notes.
This careful process makes Don Julio 70 smooth, complex, and easy to sip.
Tasting Notes
Don Julio 70 is a treat for the senses. Here’s what you can expect when you pour a glass:
Appearance
Crystal clear
Clean and bright, like a Blanco
Aroma
Sweet cooked agave
Hints of vanilla, citrus, and toasted oak
Touches of chocolate and butterscotch
Taste
Silky and smooth on the tongue
Notes of lemon zest, toasted almonds, and black pepper
A mix of caramel, vanilla, and smokey agave
Finish
Long and warm
Light spice with a crisp, clean aftertaste
It’s perfect for sipping slowly to enjoy every layer of flavor.
How to Enjoy Don Julio 70
Don Julio 70 is a versatile tequila that can be enjoyed in many ways. Here are a few suggestions:
Neat
This is the best way to enjoy the full flavor. Pour it into a glass and sip it slowly.
On the Rocks
Add a few ice cubes to bring out the citrus and smoothness.
In a Cocktail
It also works well in premium cocktails. Try it in:
Tequila Old Fashioned – Replace whiskey with Don Julio 70 for a smooth twist.
Paloma – Mix with grapefruit soda and lime juice.
Tequila Sour – Shake with lemon juice and a dash of agave syrup.
Avoid using it in overly sweet drinks—it’s best when the flavors can shine.
Why Don Julio 70 Is Unique
There are many tequilas on the market, but Don Julio 70 stands alone for a few key reasons:
First Añejo Claro ever created
Aged like an Añejo, filtered like a Blanco
Handcrafted in small batches
Perfect for both seasoned drinkers and newcomers
It bridges the gap between tradition and modern taste, offering something new while staying true to its roots.
Where to Buy and Price
Don Julio 70 is widely available in the U.S. and many other countries. You can find it at:
Major liquor stores like Total Wine, BevMo, and Liquor Barn
Online retailers such as Drizly, ReserveBar, and Caskers
Local bottle shops or specialty stores
Price Range
Typically between $60 to $80 USD for a 750ml bottle
Sometimes higher depending on location and demand
While it’s more expensive than standard tequilas, its quality makes it worth the price.
Final Thoughts
Don Julio 70 is a bold and thoughtful expression of what tequila can be. It honors 70 years of tradition while offering something truly new.
With its smooth taste, complex flavor, and crystal-clear appearance, Don Julio 70 is perfect for special moments, meaningful gifts, or simply enjoying a quality drink at home.
Whether you’re a tequila lover or just curious to try something unique, Don Julio 70 is well worth a taste.
FAQs
What kind of tequila is Don Julio 70?
Don Julio 70 is an Añejo Claro tequila. It’s aged for 18 months like a traditional Añejo, then filtered to remove its color and give it a crisp, smooth taste.
Is Don Julio 70 good for sipping?
Yes! Don Julio 70 is made to be sipped and enjoyed slowly. It has a smooth texture and rich flavor, making it perfect for sipping neat or on the rocks.
What’s the difference between Don Julio 70 and Blanco tequila?
Blanco tequila is unaged and has a sharp, fresh flavor. Don Julio 70 is aged for 18 months and then filtered, giving it the smoothness of a Blanco with the depth of an Añejo.
How strong is Don Julio 70?
Don Julio 70 has an alcohol content of 40% ABV (80 proof), which is standard for premium tequila.
Is Don Julio 70 worth the price?
Yes, for those who enjoy quality tequila, it’s worth it. It offers a unique taste experience that blends aged richness with clean smoothness.