Don Fulano Extra Anejo (750Ml)

Imperial is the oldest tequila in the Don Fulano range. It is made by the Fonseca family, five generations of agave farmers and distillers. Their home is Atotonilco, in the Highlands of Jalisco. For years they grew agave that went to top tequila makers, before opening their own distillery in the mid-1980s.

Master distiller Enrique Fonseca keeps things simple. Hand-picked agave cooks for up to 32 hours. It ferments with a house yeast in open tanks, with natural volcanic water. This extra anejo tequila then rests at least five years in French oak that once held wine. Some of the blend is up to twelve years old. A final stay in oloroso sherry casks rounds it out.

Pour it slowly and let it open. Caramel, toffee and chocolate-covered fruit fill the nose, with a cool hint of menthol. The palate is velvety. Dried black cherry and apricot meet clove, nutmeg and pepper, plus roasted nuts. The long finish turns to coffee, dark chocolate, old leather and tobacco.

Judges agree it is special. Imperial was named Best Extra Anejo Tequila at the 2024 New York World Spirits Competition.

Enjoy it neat in a snifter, the way you would a fine cognac. It's a great bottle to share after dinner or to mark a big day. If you collect aged agave spirits, this one belongs on your shelf.