In a major news within the international spirits industry, Don Julio tequila has bagged the title of the ‘world’s strongest spirit’ in 2025, overtaking several globally recognised whisky brands. The distinction comes via the Brand Finance Spirits 50 list, released by the independent brand valuation consultancy, Brand Finance. The report also ranked Indian staples McDowell’s and Royal Stag among the world’s top ten spirit brands this year.
While the title might suggest alcohol potency, the term ‘strongest’ here refers not to proof but to Brand Strength Index (BSI) scores, derived from metrics including marketing investment, brand recognition, reputation, consumer loyalty, market penetration, volume performance, and premium pricing.
In 2024, Chinese baijiu Wuliangye topped the list with a BSI of 90.7. This year, it slipped to third place despite an improved score of 91. Don Julio surged ahead with an industry-leading BSI of 94.2, solidifying its dominance in the premium tequila space.
About Don Julio tequila
According to Brand Finance, Don Julio also saw a 4% jump in brand value, climbing from 16th to 15th most valuable spirit globally, with an estimated valuation of USD 1.6 billion.
The research shows the brand performs exceptionally in its home market of Mexico, boasting 97% brand awareness, 68% usage rate, and the highest recommendation score in its category.
Often regarded as one of the most premium tequila brands available in India, Don Julio has built a solid consumer base through distinctive flavour profiles and traditional craftsmanship. The Reserve Blanco variety, in particular, is a top pick among aficionados.
Distillation
Don Julio Reserve Blanco is produced using a time-intensive process that includes fully matured agave, slow cooking in brick ovens, and fermentation using a proprietary yeast strain developed by the brand’s founder, Don Julio González. The drink then undergoes double distillation in copper pot stills, which gives it its refined and authentic flavour.
Taste
The Reserve Blanco offers a vibrant flavour profile. It opens with aromas of fresh agave, citrus, and sweet fruit, leading to layered notes of cooked agave, herbal nuances, bright citrus, and a hint of black pepper on the finish. The result is a complex yet smooth tequila, ideal for sipping or mixing.
ABV content
The Don Julio Reserve Blanco has an ABV of 40%, in tune with the industry standards for premium tequila.
Price
The pricing of Don Julio Reserve Blanco varies by region in India. A 750 ml bottle is available for approximately:
Rs 9,820 in Mumbai
Rs 6,000 in Delhi
Rs 6,700 in Goa
Other Popular Variants
Beyond the Reserve Blanco, the Don Julio portfolio features several celebrated variants, like Don Julio Reposado, Don Julio Añejo, Don Julio 70 Cristalino, Don Julio 1942.
