Last Updated on: 5th April 2024, 09:23 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 Añejo vs 1800 Cristalino 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 Añejo vs 1800 Cristalino: Comparison
1800 Cristalino Tequila: A smooth, sweet twist on traditional tequila, featuring cherry and vanilla notes with a hint of black pepper. The unique aging process in ex-Port casks offers a distinct profile, ideal for those seeking a smooth, easy-drinking experience.
1800 Añejo Tequila: Offers a bourbon-like sipping experience with vanilla, oak, and ripe fruit flavors. Its versatility makes it suitable for both neat sipping and cocktails, providing quality at a good value.
Verdict: 1800 Cristalino caters to those desiring a unique, sweetened tequila experience, whereas 1800 Añejo appeals to a broader audience, including traditional tequila aficionados and bourbon drinkers. Both provide distinct qualities within the tequila spectrum, offering options for various preferences and occasions, states tequila expert Neil Coleman.
Related: 1800 Tequila Rankings
1800 Cristalino: Smooth Tequila with a Twist
- Nose: Vanilla, anise
- Palate: Cherry, vanilla, oak, black pepper
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Rocks
- Similar to: Maestro Dobel
Aroma: 1800 Cristalino delivers a smooth and subtle nose with hints of vanilla and a touch of anise.
Taste: The palate presents a prominent cherry note followed by vanilla, subtle oak, and a touch of black pepper. This tequila boasts a sweet character and a smooth finish with lingering black pepper and no burn.
Sweet and Smooth: While enjoyable for those who prefer smooth and sweet options, 1800 Cristalino offers a different experience compared to traditional tequilas. Its distinct agave notes are subtle due to the unique aging process involving ex-Port wine casks.
Overall: This smooth and approachable tequila caters to those seeking a unique and easy-drinking experience. However, those looking for the classic tequila flavor profile might prefer a different option.
Additional Notes:
- Aged in a two-step process involving American and French oak barrels, followed by resting in ex-Port casks.
- Filtered for a clear appearance and a smoother taste.
1800 Añejo Tequila: Smooth Añejo for Sipping and Mixing
- Nose: Oak, vanilla, caramel
- Palate: Oak, ripe fruit, vanilla
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Rocks, Cocktails
- Similar to: Herradura Añejo
Flavor Profile: 1800 Añejo offers a bourbon-like experience with notes of vanilla, spice, and caramel. This smooth and sweet tequila boasts minimal burn, making it enjoyable to sip neat.
Versatility: 1800 Añejo strikes a balanced note between agave, oak, and caramel flavors, appealing to both tequila enthusiasts and bourbon drinkers. This versatility extends to mixed drinks, making it a great choice for cocktails.
Value: 1800 Añejo stands out as a solid and affordable Añejo option, delivering quality at an attractive price.
Additional Notes:
- Aged for at least 14 months in French oak barrels.
- 1800 refers to the year tequila was officially recognized as a spirit, not the brand’s creation date.
- Launched in 1975 as Cuervo 1800, it is one of the few Mexican-owned tequilas belonging to Jose Cuervo.
- The bottle’s pyramid shape pays homage to Mexico’s cultural heritage.
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Tequila | Price |
| 1800 Añejo | $35 |
| 1800 Cristalino | $61 |
Specs comparison
| Characteristics | 1800 | 1800 |
| Type of tequila | Añejo | Cristalino |
| Aging length in months | 22 | 14 |
| 100% agave | Yes | Yes |
| Grinding method | Roller mill | Roller mill |
| Stainless steel tank fermentation | No | No |
| Wood tank fermentation | Yes | Yes |
| Cooking method | Autoclave | Autoclave |
| Double-distilled | Yes | Yes |
| Additives | Unsure | Unsure |
| ABV | 40% | 40% |
| Proof | 80 | 80 |