Last Updated on: 5th April 2024, 10:49 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 Reposado vs 1800 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 Reposado vs 1800 Añejo: Head-to-Head
1800 Reposado: Offers a bourbon-like aroma with butterscotch and charred oak flavors. Best suited for cocktails, adding a unique twist with its short, smoky finish. Ideal for those seeking something different in their drinks.
1800 Añejo: Smooth with whiskey notes, vanilla, and ripe fruit flavors. Appeals to a broad audience, from tequila newcomers to enthusiasts. An affordable choice for enjoying neat or in cocktails, offering minimal burn and a pleasant sipping experience.
Verdict: Both 1800 Reposado and 1800 Añejo serve distinct purposes. The Reposado is a cocktail enhancer with its unique profile, while the Añejo is a versatile, smooth option for both sipping and mixing, catering to varied tastes at reasonable price points, states tequila expert Neil Coleman.
Related: Top 1800 Tequila Picks
1800 Reposado: A Cocktail Choice with Unique Notes
- Nose: Vanilla, lemon, oak, alcohol
- Palate: Agave, oak, caramel, alcohol
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Cocktails
- Similar to: Olmeca Altos Reposado
1800 Reposado offers a distinct flavor profile that may appeal to those looking for a unique tequila experience for cocktails.
Aroma: Presents a surprising, bourbon-like aroma.
Taste: While aiming for a premium taste, the execution falls short. The tequila showcases butterscotch and charred oak notes, along with some alcoholic warmth and black pepper. The finish is short, leaving a faint smoky hint.
While not the most recommended for sipping neat, 1800 Reposado’s unique character can be interesting in cocktails.
1800 Reposado also boasts:
- Aging process: Aged for 6 months in a combination of American and French oak barrels, contributing to its distinct flavor.
- Historical reference: Named after the year tequila received official recognition as a spirit (1800).
- Part of the Jose Cuervo legacy: Created by Jose Cuervo in 1975 as a premium tequila option.
1800 Añejo: A Smooth and Affordable Añejo Tequila
- 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 offers a unique tequila experience, appealing to both tequila enthusiasts and those who typically prefer whiskey.
Aroma and Flavor: This tequila boasts a surprising resemblance to whiskey, with familiar vanilla, spice, and caramel notes. It delivers a pleasant and fruity taste with a smooth, slightly sweet finish. While not the most complex, it is enjoyable neat and features minimal burn.
Appeals to a Broad Audience:
- Tequila newcomers: The familiar whiskey notes make it a gateway to exploring tequila.
- Tequila enthusiasts: The balanced agave, oak, and caramel profile offers a pleasant sipping experience.
- Budget-conscious drinkers: 1800 Añejo provides an affordable entry point into aged tequilas.
Additional features:
- Aged for at least 14 months: French oak barrel aging contributes to its unique flavor profile.
- Distinctive bottle design: The pyramid shape pays homage to Mexico’s cultural heritage.
While not considered a top-tier Añejo, 1800 Añejo delivers a smooth and approachable experience at an attractive price. It’s also a versatile option for mixing cocktails.
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Tequila | Price |
| 1800 Reposado | $26 |
| 1800 Añejo | $35 |
Specs comparison
| Characteristics | 1800 | 1800 |
| Type of tequila | Reposado | Añejo |
| Aging length | 6 months | 14 months |
| 100% agave | Yes | Yes |
| Grinding method | Roller mill | Roller mill |
| Stainless steel tank fermentation | Yes | Yes |
| Wood tank fermentation | No | No |
| Cooking method | Autoclave | Autoclave |
| Double-distilled | Yes | No |
| Triple-distilled | No | Yes |
| Additives | Unsure | Unsure |
| Certified organic | No | No |
| ABV | 40% | 40% |
| Proof | 80 | 80 |