Last Updated on: 6th April 2024, 01:48 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 Silver vs Camarena Silver 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 vs Camarena: Head-to-Head
1800 Silver provides a smooth, easy-drinking experience, favored for its sweet, unobtrusive flavor, making it an excellent choice for both sipping and cocktail mixing.
Camarena Silver, while offering a richer taste with distinct peppery notes, is better suited for those seeking depth in their cocktails.
Verdict: For a versatile, smooth Tequila, 1800 Silver is the go-to option, especially for those new to Tequila or preferring a gentler drink. Camarena Silver, with its bold flavors, caters to enthusiasts looking to add a bold touch to their cocktails, states tequila expert Neil Coleman.
Related: Agave-forward Tequilas for cocktails
1800 Silver: A Smooth and Affordable Tequila for Mixing
- Nose: Agave, pepper, orange, alcohol
- Palate: Fruity notes, agave, pepper, orange
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Rocks, cocktails
- Similar: Jose Cuervo Silver
Aromatic Introduction:
1800 Silver presents an inviting nose. Initially, a gentle agave note takes center stage, followed by subtle hints of black pepper, citrus, and a touch of alcohol that mellows as it breathes.
Balanced Sweetness:
On the palate, it delivers a smooth and pleasant sweetness. Flavors of agave are complemented by a touch of orange and a hint of black pepper, creating a well-rounded, albeit basic, taste profile.
Short yet Pleasant Finish:
The finish is short, leaving behind a subtle sweetness and a lingering touch of pepper. While brief, it doesn’t detract from the overall experience.
Versatility and Value:
1800 Silver’s smooth and sweet taste with a hint of black pepper makes it a versatile choice. It’s enjoyable neat or on the rocks, but truly shines in cocktails like Tequila Sunrises, Palomas, or even mixed with pineapple juice or Red Bull.
A Beginner’s Choice:
While not boasting complex flavors or aiming for award-winning status, 1800 Silver offers a decent flavor profile at an attractive price point. This makes it a fantastic option for those new to tequila or those seeking an affordable base for mixed drinks.
Additional Notes:
- Bottled at 80 proof (40% ABV) in the United States and 76 proof (38% ABV) in Mexico.
- This is a Blanco or “silver” tequila, meaning it’s unaged and never spent time in oak barrels.
- Launched in 1975 under the name Cuervo 1800, the brand currently belongs to Jose Cuervo.
Overall:
1800 Silver is a solid choice for those seeking a smooth and affordable tequila for mixing cocktails or exploring the world of tequila for the first time.
Camarena Silver: A Strong Tequila Ideal for Mixing
- Nose: Alcohol, agave, vanilla
- Palate: Alcohol, black pepper, agave, vanilla
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Cocktails
- Similar to: Hornitos Plata
Prominent Agave Aroma:
Camarena Silver opens with a noticeable alcohol presence, followed by inviting aromas of roasted agave and a subtle hint of vanilla.
Spicy and Peppery Taste:
The initial sip delivers a strong warmth, followed by a pronounced taste of rubbing alcohol and a peppery note. Hints of agave sweetness emerge with a touch of vanilla, offering a glimpse of its potential.
Long and Spicy Finish:
The finish is long and warm, leaving a lingering peppery aftertaste. This Tequila requires patience to appreciate its unique character.
Mixing Potential:
While not ideal for sipping due to its high alcohol content and bold pepperiness, Camarena Silver finds its place in cocktails. Adding ice can mitigate some of the intensity, but it shines best when used as a base for mixed drinks.
Additional Notes:
- Crafted by the Camarena family, known for other prominent brands like G4 and Tesoro.
- Camarena Silver serves as the entry-level expression within their range of Tequilas.
Overall:
If you’re looking for a smooth sipping tequila, Camarena Silver might not be the best choice. However, its bold character and affordability make it a solid option for adding depth and spice to your favorite cocktails.
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Tequila | Price |
| 1800 Silver | $24 |
| Camarena Silver | $25 |
Specs comparison
| Characteristics | 1800 | Camarena |
| Type of tequila | Blanco | Blanco |
| Aging length in months | None | None |
| 100% agave | Yes | Yes |
| Grinding method | Roller mill | Roller mill |
| Stainless steel tank fermentation | Yes | No |
| Wood tank fermentation | No | Yes |
| Cooking method | Autoclave | Autoclave |
| Double-distilled | Yes | Yes |
| Triple-distilled | No | No |
| Additives | Unsure | Unsure |
| ABV | 40% | 40% |
| Proof | 80 | 80 |