Last Updated on: 6th April 2024, 01:40 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 the differences between 1800 Cristalino vs Casamigos Blanco 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 Cristalino vs Casamigos Blanco: Comparison
1800 Cristalino: A smooth, sweet tequila with vanilla and cherry flavors, accented by oak and pepper. Ideal for newcomers seeking a unique taste. Short, pleasant finish.
Casamigos Blanco: Vanilla and mint highlight this smooth tequila, offering a creamy palate with a long, warm finish. Perfect for those new to tequila, and looking for a smooth sip.
Verdict: Casamigos Blanco is recommended for those searching for a Tequila that offers traditional flavors with a modern, smooth finish, while 1800 Cristalino caters to those looking for an ultra-smooth, almost vodka-like experience, states tequila expert Neil Coleman.
Related: Top-Rated Sipping Tequilas under $50
1800 Cristalino: Smooth and Sweet for Newcomers (Atypical Profile)
- Nose: Vanilla, anise
- Palate: Cherry, vanilla, oak, black pepper
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Rocks
- Similar to: 1800 Añejo
Aroma: 1800 Cristalino greets the nose with a gentle and smooth fragrance, offering subtle hints of vanilla and a touch of anise.
Taste: This tequila delivers a smooth and sweet flavor profile, dominated by a robust cherry note. Hints of vanilla, delicate oak, and a subtle touch of black pepper add complexity.
Finish: The finish is short and pleasant, lingering with sweetness and a touch of pepper without any harsh burn.
Appealing to Newcomers: 1800 Cristalino’s smoothness and sweetness make it an approachable option for those new to tequila. Its unique taste profile, influenced by aging in ex-port barrels, deviates from traditional tequilas and leans closer to flavored vodkas.
Consideration for Aficionados: If you’re a seasoned tequila drinker seeking the distinct agave flavors characteristic of the spirit, 1800 Cristalino might not be the best fit for your taste preferences.
Unique Aging Process: This tequila undergoes a unique aging process, spending time in both American and French oak barrels before being blended and rested in ex-port wine casks. Finally, filtration removes the amber color and some harsher elements, contributing to its smooth and refined character.
A Note on History: While the name “1800” references the year tequila was officially recognized as a spirit, the 1800 Cristalino brand was actually launched in 1975 under the name Cuervo 1800 Tequila. Today, it belongs to the Jose Cuervo brand portfolio.
Casamigos Blanco: Smooth Vanilla and Mint for Tequila Newcomers
- Nose: Vanilla, agave, mint
- Palate: Smooth, creamy, agave, vanilla, mint
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Neat or rocks
- Similar to: Herradura Silver
Aroma: Casamigos Blanco entices the nose with a delightful sweetness, dominated by prominent notes of vanilla. Subtle hints of agave and refreshing mint add complexity to this inviting fragrance.
Taste: This tequila delivers a smooth and satisfying experience on the palate. Rich vanilla and invigorating mint flavors lead the way, with a touch of black pepper adding a subtle spicy depth.
Finish: The finish is remarkably long, leaving a warm and pleasant sensation. Lingering traces of vanilla and mint are complemented by minimal heat, creating a balanced and enjoyable conclusion.
A Gateway to Tequila: With its smooth and approachable character, Casamigos Blanco caters to those seeking a gentle introduction to the world of tequila. Its emphasis on sweetness makes it a favorable choice for those who enjoy a less intense spirit.
Crafted for Enjoyment: Founded by George Clooney and Rande Gerber, Casamigos Blanco embodies the vision of creating a pleasurable drinking experience. Extensive tasting and meticulous selection resulted in this tequila, designed to be savored without unpleasant aftertaste or lingering effects.
Unique Aging: Unlike many Blanco tequilas bottled immediately after distillation, Casamigos rests for 2 months in stainless steel tanks, contributing to its smooth and refined character.
Note: Although Casamigos is a British-owned brand under Diageo’s portfolio, the tequila itself is still produced in Jalisco, Mexico.
How do these Tequilas differ?
1800 Cristalino is a unique expression of Añejo Tequila, distinguished by its filtration through charcoal to remove the amber color and smooth out any rough edges.
This process transforms it into a Cristalino Tequila, renowned for its clarity and enhanced sipping qualities.
On the other hand, Casamigos Blanco is a classic example of Blanco Tequila. It is bottled a mere two months after distillation, capturing the vibrant and unaged essence of the spirit.
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Tequila | Price |
| 1800 Cristalino | $61 |
| Casamigos Blanco | $52 |
Specs comparison
| Characteristics | 1800 | Casamigos |
| Type of tequila | Cristalino | Blanco |
| Aging length in months | 22 | 2 |
| 100% agave | Yes | Yes |
| Grinding method | Roller mill | Roller mill |
| Stainless steel tank fermentation | Yes | Yes |
| Wood tank fermentation | No | No |
| Cooking method | Autoclave | Stone/Brick Ovens |
| Double-distilled | Yes | Yes |
| Triple-Distilled | No | No |
| Additives | Unsure | Unsure |
| ABV | 40% | 40% |
| Proof | 80 | 80 |