Don Julio Tequila

Don Julio is one of the most famous Tequila brands in the world. Each bottle of Don Julio Tequila is made from 100% Agave tequilana Wever Blue hand-harvested in the highlands of Jalisco, Mexico. The brand was born when Don Julio Gonzalez began producing tequila in 1942 and opened his distillery in Atotonilco el Alto, Jalisco.

Tequila Don Julio ® Catalog

Don Julio's portfolio includes a variety of Tequilas with the objective of satisfying the diversity of tastes in the consumers of this spirituous beverage. The following is a description of each of the types of Tequila Don Julio:

Don Julio BLANCO

Using the highest quality blue agave plant and a traditional distillation process, Don Julio Blanco represents tequila in its most authentic form. This tequila serves as the base from which all of our other variants are developed. Commonly referred to as "silver" tequila, its crisp agave flavor and citrus overtones make it an essential component in a wide range of innovative beverages, including margaritas. It can also be enjoyed neat or on the rocks.

Production specifications Don Julio BLANCO

Origin: Mexico.
Composition: 100% Agave tequilana weber Azul.
Alcoholic Graduation: 38% Alc. Vol. and 40% Alc. Vol.
Available Presentations: 700 ml and 750 ml.

Organoleptic Profile of Don Julio BLANCO

Aroma: Fresh agave aromas mixed with citrus notes of lemon, lime and grapefruit.
Aging: Pure unaged agave/double distillation.
Flavor: Light, sweet agave flavor.
Finish: Lingering, sweet agave flavor.

Don Julio BLANCO Price

The price of Don Julio Blanco Tequila averages $55 USD for the 750 ml presentation in U.S. stores and approximately $700 MXN for the 700 ml presentation in Mexican stores, these prices are as of 2024.

Don Julio REPOSADO

Aged for eight months in American white oak barrels, Don Julio Reposado Tequila presents a golden amber color and offers a rich, smooth finish, representing the essence of perfectly aged tequila. With a smooth, elegant taste and captivating aroma, Don Julio Reposado Tequila is best appreciated as part of a refreshing cocktail or chilled on the rocks.

Production specifications Don Julio REPOSADO

Origin: Mexico.
Composition: 100% Blue Agave Weber.
Alcoholic Graduation: 38% Alc. Vol. and 40% Alc. Vol.
Available Presentations: 700 ml and 750 ml.

Organoleptic Profile of Don Julio REPOSADO

Aroma: Captivating aroma with soft notes of lemon citrus and layers of spice, along with hints of ripe stone fruit.
Aging: 8 months (4 times the industry standard).
Flavor: Incredibly smooth and elegant with hints of dark chocolate, vanilla and a light touch of cinnamon.
Finish: Silky and warm finish with an essence of dried fruits, nuts and a hint of caramelized apple.

Don Julio REPOSADO Price

The price of Don Julio Reposado Tequila averages $60 USD for the 750 ml presentation in U.S. stores and approximately $800 MXN for the 700 ml presentation in Mexican stores, these prices are as of 2024.

Don Julio AÑEJO

Aged in small batches for eighteen months in American white oak barrels, Don Julio Añejo Tequila is a testament to the craftsmanship of superior quality aged tequila. Rich, distinctive and wonderfully complex, its flavor strikes the perfect balance between agave, wood and vanilla nuances. Ideal for enjoying neat in a balloon glass or simply on the rocks.

Don Julio AÑEJO Production Specifications

Origin: Mexico.
Composition: 100% Blue Agave Weber.
Alcoholic Graduation: 38% Alc. Vol. and 40% Alc. Vol.
Available Presentations: 700 ml and 750 ml.

Organoleptic profile of Don Julio AÑEJO

Aroma: A fresh combination of citrus aromas of lemon, grapefruit and tangerine, with a rich touch of caramel.
Aging: 18 months.
Flavor: Full-bodied and complex, with expressions of cooked agave, wild honey and oak-infused toffee.
Finish: Bright and slightly spicy finish, with the essence of wild honey.

Don Julio Añejo Price

The price of Don Julio Añejo Tequila averages $75 USD for the 750 ml presentation in U.S. stores and approximately $1,100 MXN for the 700 ml presentation in Mexican stores, these prices are as of 2024.

Don Julio 70 CRISTALINO

Don Julio 70 Cristalino is the world's first crystal clear añejo tequila, an innovation created to commemorate the 70th anniversary of tequila production by our founder, Don Julio González. This truly unique product celebrates our founder's vision to revolutionize the tequila category by creating the first luxury artisanal tequila in Mexico. Don Julio 70 Cristalino embodies the rich complexity of a traditional añejo in a liquid that is double distilled and aged to perfection for 18 months in American white oak barrels, then carefully filtered with activated charcoal to restore the crisp agave flavor found in Blanco tequila.

Don Julio 70 CRISTALINO Production Specifications

Origin: Mexico.
Composition: 100% Blue Weber Agave.
Alcoholic Graduation: 35% Alc. Vol. and 40% Alc. Vol.
Available Presentations: 700 ml and 750 ml.

Organoleptic profile of Don Julio 70 CRISTALINO

Aroma: Fresh, with traditional hints of aged wine.
Aging: 18 months and filtered with activated carbon.
Flavor: Smooth in character, with highlights of vanilla, honey and toasted oak.
Finish: Lingering hints of oak followed by a clean, warm finish.

Tequila Don Julio 70 price (Cristalino)

The price of Tequila Don Julio 70 Cristalino averages $80 USD for the 750 ml presentation in U.S. stores and approximately $1,150 MXN for the 700 ml presentation in Mexican stores, these prices are as of 2024.

Don Julio ALMA MIEL

Don Julio Alma Miel is a tequila classified as Joven. The Spanish word "Joven" translates as "young". Joven tequila is made from a blend of aged and unaged tequilas. Continuing Don Julio Gonzalez's legacy of living "Por Amor" and creating only the exceptional, Tequila Don Julio pays homage to the heart and soul of tequila with the introduction of Tequila Don Julio Alma Miel. This unique blend combines Blanco tequila distilled with oven-roasted agave honey and Añejo tequila aged for at least 14 months and finished in Crémant du Limoux barrels. The result is an extraordinary tequila with slightly sweet notes of agave honey, spicy orchard fruits, creamy caramel and rich roasted agave, creating a deliciously smooth tequila to savor. It is recommended to be enjoyed in its purest form, neat or on the rocks.

Don Julio ALMA MIEL Production Specifications

Origin: Mexico.
Composition: 100% Blue Weber Agave.
Alcoholic Graduation: 40% Alc. Vol.
Presentation Available: 750 ml.

Organoleptic profile of Don Julio ALMA MIEL

Aroma: Oven-roasted agave, wildflower honey and dried fruits.
Aging: Aged for at least 14 months and finished in Crémant du Limoux barrels.
Flavor: Spicy orchard fruits, caramel and rich roasted agave honey.
Finish: Smooth and slightly sweet.

Don Julio ALMA MIEL Price

The price of Don Julio Alma Miel Tequila averages $115 USD for the 750 ml presentation in U.S. stores and approximately $3,300 MXN for the 750 ml presentation in Mexican stores, these prices are as of 2024.

Don Julio PRIMAVERA

In 1942, Don Julio Gonzalez decided to establish his roots in Atotonilco El Alto, Mexico, where he built his distillery "La Primavera". Tequila Don Julio Primavera pays homage to the legacy of our founder, who believed that reposado tequila represented the most refined expression of this beverage. This deliciously smooth expression takes the traditional Don Julio Reposado and finishes it in an exclusive European barrel that previously contained wine infused with macerated orange peel, resulting in a silky, sophisticated taste with a light citrus twist. "Primavera" is best enjoyed on the rocks with an orange slice, or in our iconic Primavera Sunset cocktail. This special tequila not only captures the essence of reposado in its finest form, but also stands out for its unique finishing process in European barrels, offering a unique and refined sensory experience.

Don Julio PRIMAVERA Production Specifications

Origin: Mexico.
Composition: 100% Blue Agave Weber.
Alcoholic Graduation: 40% Alc. Vol.
Presentation Available: 750 ml.

Organoleptic Profile of Don Julio PRIMAVERA

Aroma: An intense aroma of agave with honey and citrus.
Aging: Matured for 8 months in American white oak barrels.
Flavor: Silky and sophisticated taste of honey and citrus with hints of spice running through the palate.
Finish: A light finish with citrus notes.

Don Julio PRIMAVERA Price

The price of Don Julio Primavera Tequila averages $85 USD for the 750 ml presentation in U.S. stores and approximately $2,600 MXN for the 750 ml presentation in Mexican stores, these prices are as of 2024.

Don Julio ROSADO

Don Julio Rosado is a reposado tequila that is finished in Ruby Port wine barrels from the charming Douro wine region of northern Portugal. The result is a unique reposado with a delicate pink hue and sweet notes of dried red fruits and caramel. This tequila, smooth like no other, is ideal for enjoying over ice. For a lighter, longer drink, we recommend adding a splash of sparkling water and a slice of lime. It is designed for daytime moments, perfect for sharing outdoors with friends. Don Julio Rosado not only captures the essence of reposado tequila, but its finishing in Ruby Port barrels adds a unique and refined dimension to its organoleptic profile, making it an exceptional choice for tequila lovers.

Don Julio ROSADO Production Specifications

Origin: Mexico.
Composition: 100% Blue Weber Agave.
Alcoholic Graduation: 40% Alc. Vol.
Presentation Available: 750 ml.

Organoleptic Profile of Don Julio ROSADO

Aroma: Fresh with traditional hints of sweetness.
Aging: Aged for 4 months in Ruby Port wine barrels.
Flavor: Dried red fruits and caramel.
Finish: Light, sweet and smooth.

Don Julio ROSADO Price

The average price of Tequila Don Julio Rosado is $105 USD for the 750 ml presentation in U.S. stores and approximately $3,400 MXN for the 750 ml presentation in Mexican stores, these prices are as of 2024.

Don Julio 1942

Revered in exclusive cocktail bars, restaurants and nightclubs, the iconic Don Julio 1942 Tequila is the choice of connoisseurs globally. Made in small batches and aged for a minimum of two and a half years, Tequila Don Julio 1942 is handcrafted in honor of the year Don Julio Gonzalez began his career in tequila distilling. Tequila Don Julio 1942 not only honors the memory of the visionary founder, but also encapsulates the mastery of distilling perfected over the decades. Each bottle is a tribute to tradition and excellence in tequila production, offering an exceptional and unique sensory experience.

Don Julio 1942 Production Specifications

Origin: Mexico.
Composition: 100% Blue Weber Agave.
Alcoholic Graduation: 38% Alc. Vol. and 40% Alc. Vol.
Available Presentations: 700 ml, 750 ml and 1.75 L.

Organoleptic profile of Don Julio 1942

Aroma: Rich notes of caramel and chocolate. Additional aromas of chocolate and coffee, complemented by hints of vanilla, caramel, toasted agave, anise and subtle touches of pepper and cinnamon, distinguished by its great complexity.
Aging: 2.5 years.
Flavor: Warm oak, vanilla and caramelized agave.
Finish: Long finish with notes of oak and rich vanilla.

Don Julio 1942 Price

The average price of Don Julio 1942 Tequila is $185 USD for the 750 ml presentation in U.S. stores and approximately $3,500 MXN for the 750 ml presentation in Mexican stores, these prices are as of 2024.

Don Julio ULTIMA RESERVA

In 2006, Don Julio and his family planted their last agave field. In honor of his dedication and expertise, this agave harvest was carefully distilled, barrelled and reserved for special use. To preserve this tequila and the exquisite Piñas agave that comprise it, we have implemented a Solera aging system. This method combines and matures tequilas of different characteristics finished in unique barrels, allowing the last agave harvest to remain at the core of this rare Extra Añejo Tequila. Our Ultima Reserva has rested in oak barrels, previously used to age bourbon, and has been finished in barrels seasoned with Madeira wine. Cheers, to the creation of the exceptional. Tequila Don Julio Ultima Reserva not only honors the memory and commitment of the founder, but also encapsulates artisanal distillation brought to excellence over the years. Each bottle represents a tribute to tradition and quality in tequila production, offering an unparalleled and unique sensory experience. This Extra Añejo stands out for its complexity and richness, the result of a careful aging process that combines innovation and respect for traditional techniques.

Production Specifications Don Julio ULTIMA RESERVA

Origin: Mexico.
Composition: 100% Blue Agave Weber.
Alcoholic Graduation: 40% Alc. Vol.
Presentations Available: 700 ml and 750 ml.

Organoleptic Profile of Don Julio ULTIMA RESERVA

Aroma: Toasted oak and caramel notes.
Aging: Extra Añejo of 36 months under the Solera System.
Taste: Hints of apricot and orange.
Finish: Smooth with hints of honeyed agave.

Price of Don Julio ULTIMA RESERVA

The price of Don Julio Ultima Reserva Tequila averages $500 USD for the 750 ml presentation in U.S. stores and approximately $9,800 MXN for the 750 ml presentation in Mexican stores, these prices are as of 2024.

Don Julio REAL

Don Julio REAL tequila, carefully aged between three and five years in American white oak barrels, considered one of the premium products of the Don Julio distillery, this tequila is designed to satisfy the most sophisticated palates. It was made from a very rigorous selection of the best agave grown on the estate and distilled in Pot Still 6, producing only three barrels per cycle. It is characterized by its rich aromas and smooth flavors, enhanced in a decanter-shaped bottle adorned with agave leaves. From its inception, it was decided that Don Julio REAL would be produced in limited quantities, which makes its retirement allow Don Julio's master distillers to continue innovating and creating new offerings, which is why in 2021 it was discontinued but as of this date in 2024 it can still be found in some stores.

Production specifications Don Julio REAL

Origin: Mexico. Composition: 100% Agave tequilana Weber Blue variety.
Alcohol Content: 38% Vol.
Presentation Available: 750 ml.

Organoleptic profile of Don Julio REAL

Aroma: Delicate notes of citrus and sweet cooked agave.
Aging: 3 to 5 years in American white oak barrels.
Taste: Considered exceptional, combining deep aromas with a smooth and sophisticated flavor. It presents a majestic golden color and subtle profiles with delicate citric touches and sweet cooked agave.

Don Julio REAL Price

The price of Don Julio Real Tequila averages $6,000 MXN in 750 ml presentation in Mexican stores, these prices are as of 2024.

Tequila don juan 1942

Tequila don juan 1942 is actually a paronym (terms that are confused) of Tequila Don Julio 1942 in most cases since it does not exist in the Don Julio catalog, the main reasons are because the brand Don Julio contains as a brand name a common name in the Spanish language, similar to Juan or José, therefore in searches or when ordering the product the terms are confused, as well as other terms such as: tequila don juan 70, tequila don juan or don juan 70 tequila.

Production of Don Julio Tequila

The production of Don Julio Tequila can be divided into several essential stages that ensure its quality and authenticity:

Harvest:

The Don Julio Tequila cycle begins with the harvesting of Agave tequilana Wever Blue variety plants, which require between 5 and 6 years to reach full maturity. The jimadores carefully select the Piñas, or agave hearts, which are the fundamental raw material for tequila.

Cooking:

After pruning the agave leaves, the Piñas are cooked to convert the starches into fermentable sugars. In traditional stone ovens or in modern autoclaves, the Piñas are cooked to prepare the agave for the following stages.

Crushing and Juice Extraction:

After cooking for 24 to 48 hours, the cooked Piñas are crushed to release their sweet juice known as aguamiel. This is extracted using mechanical crushers or more traditional methods, such as the use of a Tahona wheel, a large stone wheel moved by a mule.

Fermentation:

The mead is transferred to fermentation tanks, where yeast is added to transform the sugars into alcohol. A low alcoholic liquid known as 'mosto' is obtained. Manufacturers can incorporate up to 49% of other fermentable sugars, such as molasses or corn syrup. If Agave tequilana Weber Azul is used exclusively, a 100% agave Tequila is produced.

Distillation:

Distillation is carried out in column and copper stills, or in some cases only copper stills. After the first distillation, a clear distillate known as 'ordinario' is obtained with an alcohol content of 20-25%. The tequila must undergo a second distillation to perfect its purity and raise its alcohol content to approximately 55-75%.

Additional distillation (optional):

Some producers of high quality tequilas may perform a third distillation to further mellow the product and maintain the characteristic flavors of the agave, although this is not common in the industry.

Aging (Reposado/Añejo/Extra Añejo):

Tequilas are classified according to the time and type of barrel used for aging. Barrels can be new or reused from other distilled beverages such as bourbon. The size and type of barrel determines the amount of oak influence on the tequila, with the most common being old bourbon barrels.

Bottling:

According to Mexican regulations, tequila must be bottled with an alcohol content between 35% and 55% ABV. In international markets, such as the United States and Europe, the minimum regulations are 40% and 37.5% ABV respectively. Additives such as caramel, sugar and oak extract may be used in limited quantities, except in Tequila Blanco. 100% Agave Tequila must be bottled in one of the five authorized regions.

This meticulous production process ensures that each bottle of Tequila Don Julio maintains a perfect balance of tradition, flavor and unparalleled quality.

Chronology of Tequila Don Julio ®

The legend of Tequila Don Julio begins in 1942, when a young Don Julio González, born in Ocotlán, Jalisco, in 1925, identified a unique opportunity in tequila production. At only 17 years old, he produced his first batch in Atotonilco and marketed it under the Tres Magueyes brand. This was the starting point of a journey that would revolutionize the tequila industry.
In 1947, Don Julio Gonzalez established his first distillery, "La Primavera", in the Altos de Jalisco, located at 6,500 feet above sea level. This region, known for its harsh climate and fertile volcanic soil, offers optimal conditions for growing blue agave (Agave tequilana Weber var. azul). With the financial support of a local businessman, Don Julio obtained a loan that allowed him to establish his distillery. Since then, more than three generations of jimador families have worked alongside him, perfecting cultivation and harvesting techniques passed down from generation to generation.
In 1987, the tequila made by Don Julio González was renamed in his honor, marking the official launch of the Don Julio brand. Between 1995 and 1996, the Blanco, Añejo and Real versions were introduced, expanding the product portfolio and raising quality standards.
In 1999, Tequila Don Julio, S.A. de C.V., signed an agreement with Seagram Company Ltd. This agreement allowed Seagram to acquire controlling interest in the tequila company, while the González family maintained a 5% stake. In 2001, Seagram's wine and spirits line was acquired by Pernod Ricard and Diageo, which led Diageo to take control of Don Julio through a brand exchange with Pernod Ricard.
The legacy continued in 2002 with the creation of "Don Julio 1942," a tequila commemorating the brand's inception.
In 2003, Diageo acquired the remaining 5% stake from the Gonzalez family and sold 50% of the company to Mexican tequila maker Jose Cuervo, cementing a strategic alliance to continue producing high-quality tequila.In 2012, Don Julio launched the world's first Cristalino tequila under the "Don Julio 70" denomination, demonstrating its capacity for innovation. In 2015, Diageo gained full control of the Don Julio brand, announcing a $400 million investment to expand production and bottling capacity in Jalisco, ensuring the perpetuity of Don Julio Gonzalez's legacy.

The history of Don Julio Tequila is a testament to unwavering dedication to quality, innovation and respect for tradition, ensuring that every bottle reflects the excellence for which the brand is celebrated worldwide.

Commitment to Sustainability in Tequila Production. One of the objectives for the present and future is to be pioneers in sustainability, from the agave plantation to the glass, being an essential pillar in Don Julio's action plan entitled Sociedad 2030: "Spirit of Progress action plan". In 2021, Don Julio became the first tequila to earn the Environmentally Responsible Agave Certification for its work in creating a sustainable tequila industry by producing deforestation-free tequila. Don Julio's commitment to sustainable agricultural practices and environmental protection is reflected in every stage of its production process. The distillery has implemented advanced, eco-efficient techniques that minimize environmental impact, ensuring agave cultivation and processing that respects the natural environment. This approach guarantees the quality and authenticity of the tequila and promotes the preservation of natural resources.

Note: The brands DON JULIO®, DON JULIO 70®, DON JULIO PRIMAVERA® and DON JULIO 1942® belong to DIAGEO MEXICO COMERCIALIZADORA, S.A. DE C.V.