Don Pilar Añejo Tequila (Previously $45.99)

The story of Don Pilar tequila is as charming as the spirit itself. Don Pilar came to the United States from his native Mexico and worked his way up from fruit picker to restaurant owner. He opened a number of establishments, including one locally in Half Moon Bay, that turned into local favorites. Despite living and working in the U.S. he was able to go home to Jalisco and tend to the agave on his property there. In 2002, he decided to start bottling his tequila and the rest is history. Here are a few reasons why I like this tequila: Don Pilar produces, imports, and distributes their product themselves. They are established here locally in Belmont and have roots in the community. Their tequila is made from 100% hand-picked, mature, 8-10 year old blue agave, and all the plants are estate-grown. The añejo is beautifully soft and rich without being spicy. The flavors are more honeyed and creamy with less of the baking spice I associate with tequilas that have been barrel-aged for more than a year. It spends 13 months in new American oak. To find a product like this at a price is low is remarkable. (David Driscoll, Spirits Buyer)