Last Updated on: 4th April 2024, 11:21 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.
Explore the distinctions between Astral Blanco and Patron Silver in this detailed comparison and determine which Tequila suits your preferences best!
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
Astral Blanco vs Patron Silver: Comparison
Astral Blanco: Bold and spicy with a unique blend of roasted agave, green apple, and dill. Its higher alcohol content makes it perfect for enhancing cocktails. Organic farming and natural fermentation contribute to its distinct taste.
Patron Silver: Offers a classic tequila experience with a smooth blend of agave, pepper, and citrus. A reliable choice for those seeking a straightforward tequila, suitable for various cocktails.
Verdict: Astral Blanco stands out for its bold flavors and organic approach, ideal for cocktail enthusiasts seeking depth. Patron Silver is a solid, accessible option for a classic tequila experience. Both have their unique appeal, catering to different preferences, states tequila expert Neil Coleman.
Related: Blanco Tequila under $50 List
Astral Blanco: A Bold Tequila for Tequila Enthusiasts
- Nose: Roasted agave, green apple, dill
- Palate: Agave, cinnamon, peppercorn, pepper
- Alcohol content: 92 proof (46% ABV)
- How to drink: Rocks, Cocktails
- Similar to: Fortaleza Still Strength
Aroma: Fresh agave scents mingle with hints of green apple and dill for a unique and inviting start.
Taste: A powerful punch of agave sweetness meets a surprising kick of cinnamon and black pepper, offering a complex and spicy experience.
Finish: The warmth lingers with a peppery kick and a touch of fruitiness.
Cocktail Choice: While enjoyable neat, Astral Blanco truly shines in cocktails due to its bold flavors and higher alcohol content, boosting the complexity of mixed drinks.
Interesting Fact: Jonathan Goldsmith, the actor previously known as “The Most Interesting Man in the World,” now partners with Astral Tequila as their brand ambassador.
Astral’s Edge: Organic farming practices and a longer, ten-day natural fermentation process using wild yeasts set Astral Blanco apart from many tequilas (most ferment in 3-4 days with added chemicals). This results in a unique flavor profile and a commitment to quality ingredients.
Patron Silver: A Straightforward Tequila Experience
- Nose: Agave, pepper, citrus, alcohol
- Palate: Alcohol, agave, pepper, citrus
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Rocks
- Similar to: Cazadores Blanco
Aroma: Patron Silver opens with a mix of fresh agave, peppery spice, and a touch of alcohol that softens as it breathes.
Taste: It offers a smooth, almost oily texture with a noticeable warmth at first sip. However, this fades into a blend of sweet agave, zesty citrus, and lingering pepper.
Finish: The aftertaste is long and warming, with a touch of pepper lingering on the tongue.
Traditional Profile: Patron uses no additives or sweeteners, resulting in a classic tequila flavor.
My Two Cents: While not the top shelf option, Patron Silver is a good choice among widely available tequilas, offering a straightforward and enjoyable experience.
Bonus Bite: Founded in 1989, Patron was initially crafted at the Siete Leguas Distillery before opening its own facility in Jalisco, Mexico in 2002. Today, it’s owned by Bacardi.
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Tequila | Price |
| Astral Blanco | $36 |
| Patron Silver | $52 |
Specs comparison
| Characteristics | Astral | Patron |
| Type of tequila | Blanco | Blanco |
| Aging length in months | None | None |
| 100% agave | Yes | Yes |
| Grinding method | Roller mill/Tahona Stone | Roller mill/Tahona Stone |
| Stainless steel tank fermentation | No | No |
| Wood tank fermentation | Yes | Yes |
| Cooking method | Stone/Brick Ovens | Stone/Brick Ovens |
| Double-distilled | Yes | Yes |
| Additives | No | No |
| ABV | 46% | 40% |
| Proof | 92 | 80 |