Viva México Añejo

Viva México is the house brand of the Vivanco distillery (NOM 1414), and a true go-to bottle in my house.

It was not widely known in the U.S. until relatively recently. But its traditionally made, small-batch style and flavor profile have helped it gain traction among tequila enthusiasts.

The Vivanco family are fifth-generation agave growers who have worked their farms since 1929 and continue to do so today. Viva México was the first tequila produced by their distillery.

At first, the Vivanco family only wanted to make their own tequila at their distillery. However, over time, rising costs made it clear that they needed to accept contracts and produce other brands.

The Vivanco family and NOM 1414 have been producing tequila for more than 30 years. In fact, I was privileged to attend the 32nd anniversary celebration of the distillery and the Viva México brand in August of this year.

The Vivanco family distillery is known for great tequila, a willingness to experiment, and treating every guest like family.

Cesar Vivanco said that his uncle, Sergio Vivanco, once told him, “The people who visit could be anywhere, and they chose to come here. That is a blessing.”

I have always enjoyed visiting distilleries and have learned a great deal at each one. But something feels different at NOM1414—more like a family BBQ. I highly recommend a visit!

An añejo must be aged in oak for a minimum of 12 months, but Viva México ages theirs for 18–22 months, until the team believes it is ready to bottle.

The aromas of this tequila include cooked agave, butterscotch, caramel, a hint of orange, cocoa butter, and cinnamon.

The taste provides caramelized cooked agave, vanilla, butterscotch, barrel spices, cocoa, and black pepper.

The finish is medium in length, with pleasant lingering notes of cocoa, caramel, pepper, and alcohol.

Viva México Añejo is a wonderful, easy sipper that I could drink all night long.

More from Viva México: All of our Viva México coverage, including reviews, lists, scores, and more.