Last Updated on: 6th April 2024, 01:45 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 Herradura Ultra in this head-to-head 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 Herradura Ultra: Head-to-Head
1800 Cristalino: Offers a smooth experience with vanilla, cherry, and oak flavors, ending with a short, sweet finish. Ideal for those seeking sweetness in their tequila.
Herradura Ultra: Sweet, with prominent vanilla and agave syrup flavors. Short and pleasant finish. Perfect for sweet spirit lovers, with added agave syrup for extra smoothness.
Verdict: Both 1800 Cristalino and Herradura Ultra provide unique takes on traditional tequila, emphasizing smoothness and sweetness. Each caters to a distinct preference for tequila enthusiasts looking for a refined drinking experience, states tequila expert Neil Coleman.
Related: Smoothest Cristalino Tequilas for sipping neat
1800 Cristalino: Smooth and Sweet Tequila
- Nose: Vanilla, anise
- Palate: Cherry, vanilla, oak, black pepper
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Rocks
- Similar to: Maestro Dobel
Flavor Profile:
- Nose: Opens with subtle hints of vanilla and anise, offering a smooth and inviting aroma.
- Palate: The taste is dominated by a sweet cherry flavor, complemented by notes of vanilla, delicate oak, and a touch of black pepper.
- Finish: Leaves a short, sweet aftertaste with a lingering hint of pepper, lacking any burning sensation.
A Unique Take on Tequila:
1800 Cristalino presents a smooth and enjoyable experience, particularly for those new to tequila. Its sweetness and lack of harshness differ from the traditional tequila profile, making it more akin to a flavored vodka.
Considerations for Different Preferences:
If you enjoy smooth and sweet drinks, 1800 Cristalino might be a perfect fit. However, those who appreciate the distinct agave flavors characteristic of tequila may find this expression less appealing.
Behind the Blend:
- The tequila is first aged in two separate batches, one in American oak and the other in French oak barrels.
- After 16 months, the batches are blended in ex-Port wine casks for an additional 6 months.
- Finally, the blend undergoes filtration, resulting in a crystal-clear appearance and a smooth taste profile.
Herradura Ultra: A Sweet and Smooth Tequila
- Nose: Vanilla, caramel, agave
- Palate: Agave syrup, vanilla, agave
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Rocks
- Similar to: Herradura Silver
Flavor Profile:
- Nose: Herradura Ultra opens with a noticeable aroma of vanilla, followed by hints of caramel and agave.
- Palate: The taste is undeniably sweet, dominated by flavors of agave syrup, vanilla, and a touch of natural agave.
- Finish: The finish is short and sweet, leaving a pleasant and smooth sensation.
Sweetness with a Twist:
While Herradura Ultra boasts exceptional smoothness and a pronounced sweetness, it’s important to note that this sweetness comes from added agave syrup, not just the tequila itself. This differs from the traditional taste profile of tequila, which can be peppery or have earthy notes.
Enjoying Herradura Ultra:
Whether you prefer your tequila neat, on the rocks, or chilled, Herradura Ultra offers a smooth and enjoyable experience for those seeking a sweet and easy-drinking spirit.
Behind the Scenes:
- Herradura Ultra is a blend of two tequilas: Herradura Añejo and the highly-rated Herradura Seleccion Suprema Extra Añejo.
- This blend is then filtered through charcoal to create a crystal-clear appearance and remove some stronger flavors, resulting in a smoother taste.
- Finally, agave syrup is added to enhance the sweetness.
- This process is known as “Cristalino” and is becoming popular for its unique smoothness.
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Tequila | Price |
| 1800 Cristalino | $61 |
| Herradura Ultra | $63 |
Specs comparison
| Characteristics | 1800 Cristalino | Herradura Ultra |
| Type of tequila | Añejo | Añejo/Extra Añejo |
| Aging length in months | 22 | 25/40 |
| 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 | Yes, agave syrup |
| ABV | 40% | 40% |
| Proof | 80 | 80 |