Last Updated on: 5th April 2024, 10:50 pm
J Highland
J Highland is a certified sommelier with 30 years in the liquor industry, owning a pub, a liquor store, and moonlighting as an agave spirits distiller.
Discover the differences between 1800 Añejo vs Herradura Añejo in this in-depth 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 Herradura Añejo: Comparison
1800 Añejo: A smooth budget-friendly Añejo with bourbon-like notes of vanilla, spice, and caramel. Offers a simple, enjoyable experience for both tequila enthusiasts and newcomers. Its affordability and versatility in cocktails make it an attractive option.
Herradura Añejo: Features a pronounced oak profile with warmth and spice, suited for sipping neat. The extended aging process enhances its smoothness and complexity, appealing to those who favor an oak-forward taste.
Verdict: 1800 Añejo is a cost-effective, approachable choice for those seeking bourbon-like sweetness in their tequila, while Herradura Añejo is ideal for sippers looking for a robust oak presence and aged warmth. Both offer distinct experiences within the Añejo category, catering to different preferences, states tequila expert Neil Coleman.
Related: Best Recommended Cheap Añejos
1800 Añejo: Smooth and Budget-Friendly Tequila with Hints of Bourbon
- Nose: Oak, vanilla, caramel
- Palate: Oak, ripe fruit, vanilla
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Rocks, Cocktails
- Similar to: Don Julio Añejo
1800 Añejo, from Jose Cuervo, presents a smooth and approachable Añejo tequila at an attractive price point.
Aroma and Taste: This tequila offers a unique profile, reminiscent of whiskey with its sweet and smooth character. Expect flavors of vanilla, spice, and caramel, similar to bourbon, with a subtle bitter note and minimal burn.
Overall: While not boasting complex depth, 1800 Añejo provides a solid choice for both tequila enthusiasts and those new to the spirit. Its affordability and smooth taste make it appealing.
Here’s what makes it stand out:
- Smooth and budget-friendly: This tequila offers a smooth drinking experience at an attractive price, making it a good value for the price.
- Bourbon-like notes: The aging process in French oak barrels imparts flavors of vanilla, spice, and caramel, appealing to those who enjoy bourbon.
- Versatile: Enjoy it neat, on the rocks, or in mixed drinks like fruity cocktails or even an Old Fashioned, without compromising quality.
1800 Añejo facts:
- Aged for at least 14 months in French oak barrels.
- 1800 refers to the year tequila was officially recognized, not the brand’s creation year.
- Launched in 1975 as Cuervo 1800, it remains under Jose Cuervo ownership, making it one of the few Mexican-owned tequila brands.
- The distinctive pyramid-shaped bottle pays homage to Mexico’s rich cultural heritage.
Looking for a smooth and affordable Añejo tequila to explore or enjoy in cocktails? Consider 1800 Añejo.
Herradura Añejo: Oak-Forward Tequila with Aged Warmth
- Nose: Vanilla, oak, caramel, agave
- Palate: Oak, vanilla, agave, oak, fruit, cinnamon
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Rocks
- Similar to: Casamigos Añejo
Herradura Añejo is a tequila aged for 25 months in oak barrels, exceeding the standard minimum of 12 months. This extended aging process results in a distinct taste profile.
Aroma: Expect prominent notes of vanilla, oak, and caramel, with a subtle hint of agave.
Taste: The first sip is warm and introduces you to the pronounced oak influence with hints of spice. As you continue sipping, flavors of vanilla, ripe fruit, and agave emerge.
Finish: The finish is long and warm, lingering with oak notes.
Overall: Herradura Añejo caters to those who enjoy a strong oak presence and a touch of spice in their tequila. The extended aging offers a smooth mouthfeel and a satisfying warmth.
Here’s what to consider:
- Oak forward: The prolonged oak aging significantly reduces the agave flavor, which some might prefer in an Añejo tequila.
- Enjoyable neat: This tequila is well-suited for sipping neat due to its smooth texture and complex flavor profile.
Herradura Añejo facts:
- Aged for 25 months in oak barrels, exceeding the standard Añejo requirements.
- Crafted by Herradura, a renowned tequila producer established in 1870.
- Currently owned by Brown-Forman, the company behind Jack Daniel’s.
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Tequila | Price |
| 1800 Añejo | $35 |
| Herradura Añejo | $47 |
Specs comparison
| Characteristics | 1800 | Herradura |
| Type of tequila | Añejo | Añejo |
| Aging length in months | 14 | 25 |
| 100% agave | Yes | Yes |
| Grinding method | Roller mill | Roller mill |
| Stainless steel tank fermentation | Yes | No |
| Wood tank fermentation | No | Yes |
| Cooking method | Autoclave | Stone/Brick Ovens |
| Double-distilled | Yes | Yes |
| Additives | Unsure | Unsure |
| ABV | 40% | 40% |
| Proof | 80 | 80 |