Last Updated on: 6th April 2024, 01:02 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 818 Blanco vs Don Julio 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
818 Blanco vs Don Julio Blanco: Head-to-Head
818 Blanco Tequila: Stands out for its cream soda and vanilla profile, offering a smooth introduction for those new to tequila. Its distinctive taste makes it less ideal for classic tequila cocktails but excellent for sipping on rocks.
Don Julio Blanco Tequila: Delivers a light, refreshing experience with a blend of citrus, agave, and a hint of black pepper. Versatile and smooth, it’s suitable for a wide audience and can be enjoyed in various ways, including neat or in cocktails.
Comparison: While 818 Blanco leans towards a unique vanilla sweetness, Don Julio Blanco offers a more traditional tequila experience with a focus on citrus and agave flavors. 818 Blanco is a choice for those seeking something different, whereas Don Julio Blanco caters to purists and newcomers alike, looking for a classic tequila taste with a smooth finish, states tequila expert Neil Coleman.
Related: Sweetest Sipping Tequilas
818 Blanco Tequila: A Beginner’s Guide
- Nose: Cream soda, vanilla, agave
- Palate: Cream soda, vanilla, black pepper
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Rocks, cocktails
- Similar to: Patron Silver
Sweet and Smooth Tequila
818 Blanco offers a unique tequila experience, perfect for those new to the spirit. Its aroma is dominated by a pleasant cream soda scent with hints of vanilla and agave. The taste follows suit, with a creamy texture and a prominent vanilla flavor balanced by a touch of black pepper.
A unique twist
This tequila sets itself apart with its strong vanilla note, which some may find different from a traditional tequila that emphasizes the agave taste.
Enjoying 818 Blanco
This tequila is great for sipping neat or on the rocks. However, due to the vanilla flavor, it might not be the best choice for classic tequila cocktails where the agave flavor is expected.
Interesting Facts
818 Blanco is rested for one month in French oak barrels before bottling. While this short aging period wouldn’t typically add significant vanilla character, it contributes to the tequila’s smoothness. 818 Blanco is crafted at the Mieles Azules distillery in Jalisco, Mexico.
Looking for a more traditional tequila? 818 Blanco’s emphasis on vanilla might not be for everyone. If you prefer the classic agave taste, there are other tequilas available that might be a better fit.
Don Julio Blanco Tequila: Smooth sipper with a citrusy twist
- Nose: Alcohol, agave, orange, earth
- Palate: Agave, black pepper, citrus, alcohol
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Rocks
- Similar to: Jose Cuervo Silver
Light and Refreshing
Don Julio Blanco offers a smooth and pleasant taste experience. While there’s a noticeable sweetness, it’s balanced by a refreshing aroma of citrus.
Flavors to Explore
This tequila boasts a lively mix of citrus notes with subtle hints of earth and minerals. A touch of black pepper adds a layer of complexity, making it interesting for the palate.
Easy to Enjoy
Don Julio Blanco goes down smoothly without any harsh alcohol burn. The finish is pleasantly sweet, leaving a lingering taste with a subtle peppery bite.
A Tequila for Everyone
Whether you’re a tequila newbie or a seasoned drinker, Don Julio Blanco is a versatile choice. Enjoy it neat, on the rocks, or mixed into your favorite cocktails.
Worth Knowing
While not the most budget-friendly option, Don Julio Blanco remains a respected tequila within the competitive market. It may not hold the top spot for silver tequilas anymore, but it’s a reliable choice for a smooth and flavorful experience.
Bonus Facts
- Don Julio Gonzalez, a young entrepreneur at the age of 17, started crafting this tequila in 1942 with a focus on high quality.
- The unique, square-shaped bottle was Don Julio’s design choice, allowing people to see over the table while socializing. (Fun fact: Despite the brand’s Mexican heritage, it’s actually owned by Diageo, a British company.)
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Tequila | Price |
| 818 Blanco | $46 |
| Don Julio Blanco | $53 |
Specs comparison
| Characteristics | 818 | Don Julio |
| Type of tequila | Blanco | Blanco |
| Aging length | Briefly rested (unspecified time) | None |
| 100% agave | Yes | Yes |
| Grinding method | Tahona stone | Roller mill |
| Stainless steel tank fermentation | Yes | Yes |
| Wood tank fermentation | No | No |
| Cooking method | Stone/Brick Ovens | Stone/Brick Ovens |
| Double-distilled | Yes | Yes |
| Additives | Very likely | Unsure |
| ABV | 40% | 40% |
| Proof | 80 | 80 |