For tequila fans and aficionados, there is one bottle that continues to impress, confuse, and stun simply because of its star power.
This bottle is of course the famed Don Julio 1942, a rich añejo tequila made for sipping poolside, courtside, or simply ‘inside’ the most elite social circles in every scene. Shaped after classic agave leaves, the bottle towers above its competitors on every shelf, stretching a full 17.5 inches tall.
Aged for at least two years, the liquid inside wields just as much influence, boasting “spicy vegetal notes and attractive vanilla.” For this reason, making cocktails with the spirit is a slightly intimidating task, though not completely unlike working with any other high-quality añejo.
Luckily Tim McKirdy, VinePair staff writer, spirits reviewer, and author of the recent article, “How Don Julio 1942 Became Tequila’s First Unicorn Bottle” has the perfect solution. McKirdy explains that the liquid really, “lends itself to the profile of an Old Fashioned, with its hazelnut and vanilla notes.” And while bourbon-loyalists everywhere may be shaking in their boots, this switch is not an uncommon one, and a great way to pay a rich añejo tequila the respect it deserves.
McKirdy expands, noting that cocktail fans should look for a “not-too-sweet agave simple syrup” (made with a 2:1 agave, water ration) and feel free to play around with interesting bitters. Flavors like chocolate or orange bitters can really pull the drink together, and help home bartenders customize their serve.
From there, it’s just a matter of serving, and there’s no better way to highlight this drink than with the proper glassware – especially these Crystal Whiskey Tumblers.
Each tumbler accommodates up to nine ounces comfortably, so you’ll have plenty of room for extra agave syrup — or distillate — if need be. The glasses are made with lead-free crystal so you can sip with strong peace of mind, and impress every guest you treat to a proper Old Fashioned.
So once you’ve secured your glassware, read on to test our best Old Fashioned recipe, and get ready to sip that 1942 in style.
