1800 Añejo vs Don Julio Añejo

Last Updated on: 5th April 2024, 09:23 pm

Discover the differences between 1800 Añejo vs Don Julio Añejo in this head-to-head comparison and decide which Tequila is better for You!

Quick Note: Running a pub and liquor store provides me ample access to various spirits, in addition, I moonlight as an agave spirits distiller. I assess them using customer feedback, expert opinions and online research.

Written by: J Highland

1800 Añejo vs Don Julio Añejo: Comparison

Don Julio Añejo offers a refined sipping experience with bourbon-like notes of vanilla, oak, caramel, and a hint of orange. Its smoothness, combined with a long, warmly spiced finish, makes it a preferred choice for those seeking quality Tequila for neat or on-the-rocks consumption.

1800 Añejo presents itself as a versatile option for mixing, thanks to its affordability and whiskey-like characteristics of oak, vanilla, and ripe fruit. Its smooth, sweet profile allows it to double as a substitute in whiskey-based cocktails, offering good value.

Verdict: Don Julio Añejo stands out for Tequila aficionados looking for a premium, smooth experience with balanced sweetness and spice. 1800 Añejo is an excellent budget-friendly Tequila for those looking to experiment with Tequila in cocktails without compromising on the 100% agave quality, states tequila expert Neil Coleman.

Related: Best Affordable Añejos

1800 Añejo: Smooth Tequila with a Bourbon Twist

• Nose: Oak, vanilla, caramel
• Palate: Oak, ripe fruit, vanilla
• Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
• How to drink: Rocks, Cocktails
• Similar to: 1800 Cristalino

Crafted by Jose Cuervo, 1800 Añejo is known for its smoothness and accessibility, making it a popular choice for both tequila veterans and newcomers.

A Unique Flavor Profile: While crafted from 100% agave, 1800 Añejo offers a distinctive taste profile reminiscent of whiskey. Expect sweet and fruity notes alongside hints of vanilla, spice, and caramel, similar to bourbon. The finish is mildly bitter with minimal burn.

Affordable Choice and Mixability: While not as complex as some other tequilas, 1800 Añejo delivers a consistent and enjoyable experience at an attractive price point. Its well-balanced sweetness and oaky undertones also make it a versatile option for mixing in cocktails like margaritas or even a tequila Old Fashioned.

1800 Añejo: A Few Interesting Facts:

• Aged for at least 14 months in French oak barrels.
• 1800 does not represent the brand’s creation year, but rather the year tequila was officially recognized as a spirit.
• Launched in 1975, it was originally named Cuervo 1800 and remains owned by Jose Cuervo, one of the few Mexican-owned tequila brands.
• The bottle’s pyramid shape pays homage to Mexico’s rich cultural heritage.

Don Julio Añejo: A Warm and Cinnamon-Rich Tequila Adventure

• Nose: Oak, vanilla, caramel, orange
• Palate: Cinnamon, oak, vanilla, smoke
• Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
• How to drink: Neat, rocks
• Similar to: Don Julio Reposado

Aroma: Don Julio Añejo welcomes you with an inviting bouquet reminiscent of bourbon, featuring sweet notes of vanilla, oak, caramel, and a hint of citrusy orange.

Palate: This tequila offers a pleasantly warm and smooth mouthfeel, with cinnamon taking center stage from the start to the finish. Alongside the cinnamon, you’ll discover familiar bourbon-like flavors of vanilla and oak, complemented by touches of sweet butterscotch and subtle smoky hints.

Finish: Don Julio Añejo leaves a lasting impression, characterized by a warming sensation and lingering notes of cinnamon, gracefully supported by oak undertones.

A Well-Balanced Choice: This Añejo tequila strikes a harmonious balance, showcasing moderate sweetness, smoky complexity, and a satisfying warmth that doesn’t overpower the distinctive agave character.

Who Will Enjoy It? This expression is ideal for those who appreciate bold cinnamon flavors, subtle smokiness, and a touch of warmth.

Value for Money: Considering its high quality and smooth sipping experience, Don Julio Añejo presents a reasonable value at a price point under $75.

Don Julio Añejo: A Legacy of Craftsmanship

Established in 1942, Don Julio Añejo carries the legacy of its founder, Don Julio, who began distilling agaves at the young age of 17. Today, Don Julio is owned by the renowned beverage company, Diageo.

Price comparison

Prices are approximate and stated in USD:

Tequila	Price
1800 Añejo	$35
Don Julio Añejo	$57

Specs comparison

Characteristics	1800	Don Julio
Type of tequila	Añejo	Añejo
Aging length in months	14	18
100% agave	Yes	Yes
Grinding method	Roller mill	Roller mill
Stainless steel tank fermentation	No	No
Wood tank fermentation	Yes	Yes
Cooking method	Autoclave	Stone/Brick Ovens
Double-distilled	Yes	Yes
Additives	Unsure	Unsure
ABV	40%	40%
Proof	80	80