Last Updated on: 6th April 2024, 01:42 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 Altos Plata vs Hornitos Plata 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
Altos vs Hornitos: Comparison
Olmeca Altos Plata: This tequila is known for its complex blend of agave, black pepper, and citrus, perfect for enhancing cocktails. Its unique aroma and flavor profile, involving earthy, orange, and mint notes, make it a favorite among bartenders. Long, warm finish with a peppery kick.
Hornitos Plata: Offers a straightforward approach with a focus on alcohol warmth, black pepper, and fruitiness, making it an affordable, versatile option for cocktail crafting. Short, warm finish with a focus on peppery flavors.
Verdict: Olmeca Altos Plata and Hornitos Plata both provide distinctive qualities for cocktail enthusiasts. Olmeca Altos stands out for its complex flavor profile and traditional production methods, offering depth to any cocktail. Hornitos Plata, meanwhile, delivers a solid, budget-friendly base that supports a wide range of cocktails, states tequila expert Neil Coleman.
Related: Best Margarita Tequilas
Olmeca Altos Plata: A Complex Tequila for Cocktail Creations
- Nose: Agave, earth, orange, mint
- Palate: Agave, black pepper, citrus, brine
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Cocktails
- Similar to: Espolon Blanco
Olmeca Altos Plata, developed by bartenders and a master distiller, is a Tequila specifically designed to shine in cocktails.
Aroma: It offers a unique blend of earthy and vegetal scents, with subtle hints of agave, orange, and mint.
Taste: The initial sip reveals pronounced herbal flavors that transition into a complex mix of spiciness and sweetness from the agave. This results in a memorable and enjoyable tasting experience.
Finish: Expect a lasting warmth and peppery notes, with a subtle burn and salty aftertaste that adds depth.
While Olmeca Altos might not be the smoothest for sipping neat, its rich and complex flavor profile makes it ideal for mixing in various cocktails like Margaritas, Ranch Water, Mojitos, or Mexican Mules.
Unique Production Methods:
- Traditional tahona stone: Unlike many Tequilas, Altos uses a two-ton stone to crush the agave, preserving the natural sweetness.
- Brick and stone ovens: They cook the agaves in traditional ovens, avoiding the industrial taste often associated with mass production.
Olmeca Altos Plata facts:
- Award-winning: Won a gold medal at the 2015 LA International Spirits Competition.
- Owned by Pernod Ricard: A major beverage company with various brands like Chivas Regal and Glenlivet.
Hornitos Plata: A Budget-Friendly Tequila for Mixing
- Nose: Alcohol, fruity notes
- Palate: Alcohol, black pepper, fruit, citrus
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Cocktails
- Similar to: Hornitos Reposado
Hornitos Plata is a popular Tequila choice known for its affordable price point. While it may not be the first choice for sipping, it can be a decent option for mixing cocktails.
Aroma: It has a prominent alcohol aroma with some fruity notes in the background.
Taste: The initial sip reveals a noticeable warmth and peppery flavors. Hints of earthiness and fruitiness with a touch of citrus are also present.
Finish: The finish is short and warm, lingering with peppery notes.
Overall, Hornitos Plata is a good choice for those seeking a budget-friendly option for making cocktails. Its affordability allows for experimentation without breaking the bank.
Hornitos Plata facts:
- Made at the Sauza Distillery: Shares production with Sauza Tequila and Tres Generaciones.
- Part of a historic brand: Sauza Distillery, established in 1873, is one of Mexico’s oldest.
- Currently owned by Beam Suntory: A Japanese beverage giant.
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Tequila | Price |
| Altos Plata | $30 |
| Hornitos Plata | $26 |
Specs comparison
| Characteristics | Altos | Hornitos |
| Type of tequila | Blanco | Blanco |
| Aging length | None | None |
| 100% agave | Yes | Yes |
| Grinding method | Tahona Stone | Diffuser |
| Stainless steel tank fermentation | Yes | Yes |
| Wood tank fermentation | No | No |
| Cooking method | Brick Ovens | Autoclave |
| Double-distilled | Yes | Yes |
| Additives | Unlikely | Unlikely |
| ABV | 40% | 40% |
| Proof | 80 | 80 |