Last Updated on: 14th May 2024, 01:42 am
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 everything about 1800 Cristalino Añejo Tequila in this in-depth review that answers all your related questions!
Reviewed by: J Highland
1800 Cristalino Tequila: Smoothness with a Twist (But Maybe Not for Agave Purists)
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
1800 Cristalino Tequila presents a unique flavor profile that caters to specific preferences, according to tequila expert Neil Coleman. Here's what to weigh in before you buy:
Strengths:
- Sweet and Easy Does It: This tequila boasts a mellow taste with a noticeable sweetness, influenced by its aging process in ex-port barrels. The smooth character makes it a pleasant option for those who find traditional tequilas a bit harsh.
Weaknesses:
- Agave on the Back Burner: Unlike tequilas that celebrate the blue agave flavor, 1800 Cristalino features a milder agave presence. This can make it taste closer to a flavored vodka for some tequila enthusiasts.
Verdict:
If you enjoy a sweeter and smoother spirit, 1800 Cristalino might be your new favorite. However, for those seeking a tequila that prioritizes the classic taste of agave, Neil Coleman suggests exploring other options that might better suit your palate.
Related: Top-Rated Cristalino Tequilas
Tasting Notes
- Nose: Vanilla, anise
- Palate: Cherry, vanilla, oak, black pepper
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Rocks
- Similar to: 1800 Añejo
The nose offers a smooth scent with a touch of vanilla and a hint reminiscent of anise.
The flavor presents a notable cherry note up front, followed by vanilla, a subtle oak presence, and a delicate hint of black pepper.
The finish is short-lived, leaving a pleasing sweetness with a touch of black pepper and no lingering burn.
How did I review 1800 Cristalino Añejo?
I run a pub and a liquor store, granting me extensive access to various spirits, in addition, I moonlight as an agave spirits distiller.
My evaluations include my insights and feedback from customers and patrons and Tequila expert opinions from Neil Coleman who has been for decades in the liquor business.
I also corroborate my views with online research to ensure accuracy.
Our ratings are determined primarily by four key factors: aroma, taste, finish, and value for money. While we do consider packaging, it is of lesser importance to us, as we prioritize the quality of the liquid inside over the aesthetics of the bottle.
⭐ - Poor, ⭐⭐ - Average, ⭐⭐⭐ - Good, ⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Very Good, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Excellent.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is 1800 Cristalino?
- Crafting Method: Aged in American and French oak barrels for 16 months, then rested in ex-Port wine casks for 6 months.
- Port Wine Influence: Adds unique sweet flavors.
- Filtering Process: Removes amber hue, resulting in a smooth, sweet Tequila.
How to Drink
- Preferred Method: Best enjoyed over ice with large cubes to minimize dilution.
- Cocktail Suitability: Not ideal for cocktails due to its unique flavor profile and price.
Related: How to Drink 1800 Cristalino Tequila
Suitability for Margaritas
- Not Recommended: Better suited for sipping than in a Margarita due to its distinctive taste and cost.
Using 1800 Cristalino for Shots
- Shots: Can be used for smooth shots but better appreciated on the rocks.
Alternatives
- Premium Option: Don Julio 70, a pioneer in Cristalino Tequila, offers a superior experience.
- Alternative Choice: Maestro Dobel Diamante, with a more traditional Tequila flavor.
Bottle Pricing
- Cost in USD: Approximately $55 at Old Town Tequila and Total Wine.
Alcohol Content
- Standard Proof: Bottled at 80 proof (40% ABV), lower in Mexico due to taxation.
Shelf Life and Storage
- Longevity: Best consumed within a year or two of opening, especially when the bottle is about 25% full, to maintain flavor.
Freezing Characteristics
- Chilling: High alcohol content prevents freezing; best enjoyed straight from the freezer.
Sugar and Carb Content
- Diet-Friendly: Low in sugar and carb-free, making it suitable for low-sugar diets and keto-friendly.
Use of Additives
- Uncertain Additive Use: Presence of additives is unclear, with some notes potentially arising from barreling process rather than artificial infusion.
Manufacturer Information
- Produced by Jose Cuervo: Crafted at the distillery in Volcan de Tequila, Jalisco, Mexico.
- Comparison to Cuervo Releases: 1800 Tequila stands out for being 100% agave, in contrast to some Cuervo Mixto Tequilas.
Product Specifications for 1800 Cristalino Tequila
- Type: Añejo Cristalino
- 100% Agave: Yes
- Flavor Profile: Sweet, without warmth or smokiness
- Suitability: Ideal for beginners, not for cocktail use
- Nutritional Info: 98 calories per shot, gluten-free, keto-friendly