Best 1800 Tequila

Last Updated on: 17th May 2024, 05:30 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.

I have reviewed and rated every 1800 Tequila so you determine which suits you best!

Written by: J Highland

Choosing the Best 1800 Tequila

1800 tequilas offer a range of options depending on your taste and what you plan to use it for. Here's a breakdown of each:

1800 Silver:

• Pros: Smooth, affordable, good for beginners or mixing cocktails/shots.
• Cons: Not complex, might lack character for some.

1800 Reposado:

• Pros: Affordable, decent mixer.
• Cons: Not recommended for neat sipping due to strong alcohol flavor, less focus on agave flavor.

1800 Añejo:

• Pros: Budget-friendly, smooth, good for sipping (especially for those who enjoy whiskey), good for mixing.
• Cons: Less focus on agave flavor, sweeter profile.

1800 Cristalino:

• Pros: Smooth, easy to drink, good for newcomers to tequila.
• Cons: Sweet, strays from traditional tequila flavor profile (more like flavored vodka), might lack complexity for some.

1800 Milenio:

• Pros: Smooth, well-crafted, good for those who enjoy Cognac or heavily oaked spirits.
• Cons: Expensive, strong Cognac influence overpowers agave flavor, there might be better Extra Añejos for the price that retain more agave character.

Here's a quick recommendation based on your preference:

• New to Tequila: Try 1800 Silver or 1800 Cristalino for a smooth introduction.
• Budget-Friendly Sipping: Opt for 1800 Añejo if you enjoy a sweeter tequila with some whiskey-like notes.
• Mixing: 1800 Silver or 1800 Reposado are good base options for cocktails.
• Agave-Forward Tequila: 1800 tequilas might not be the best choice; consider exploring other brands.
• Cognac Lover: 1800 Milenio might be worth a try, but be aware of the strong Cognac influence.

Remember: These are just recommendations. Ultimately, the best way to find your favorite is to try them yourself!

• 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.

1800 Silver: Smooth Tequila for Easy Enjoyment

1800 Silver is a great introduction to blanco tequila.

The aroma is a gentle mix of agave, black pepper, and a touch of citrus. The taste is smooth and sweet, featuring agave balanced with a hint of orange and subtle black pepper. The finish is short and leaves a lingering sweetness with a touch of peppery warmth.

This affordable tequila is a versatile choice. Enjoy it neat or on the rocks for a simple pleasure, or use it for mixing cocktails or even tequila shots, states tequila expert Neil Coleman.

1800 Reposado: Better in a Mix

While 1800 Reposado's rested nature hints at a complex flavor, its aroma leans towards whiskey with butterscotch and oak. The taste follows suit, initially offering sweetness that fades into alcohol and pepper. The finish is short with a smoky ghost.

While not the best for sipping neat due to the prominent alcohol and peppery bite, 1800 Reposado can be enjoyed over ice to tame some of the heat. It shines more as a decent mixer, adding a touch of aged character to your favorite tequila cocktails.

1800 Añejo: Budget-Friendly Tequila for Whiskey Fans

1800 Añejo takes an unexpected turn with a whiskey-like profile.

The nose and flavor veer towards butterscotch, vanilla, spice, and caramel notes reminiscent of bourbon. Despite its simplicity, this Añejo offers a smooth and surprisingly sweet experience with subtle fruity undertones. The finish is slightly bitter but lacks a harsh burn, making it enjoyable for sipping.

1800 Añejo appeals to both tequila enthusiasts and those who enjoy non-agave spirits.

Its budget-friendly price makes it a great option for those curious about aged tequilas, or even for mixing fruity cocktails or a budget-friendly Old Fashioned. The balance of agave, oak, and caramel creates a smooth introduction to Añejo tequilas, particularly for whiskey drinkers looking to explore new territory.

1800 Cristalino: Sweet Tequila Sipper for Newcomers

1800 Cristalino presents a smooth and approachable tequila experience. The aroma is light, hinting at vanilla and anise. The first sip offers a surprising burst of cherry, followed by vanilla, delicate oak, and a touch of black pepper. The finish is short and sweet, leaving a lingering hint of pepper without any harsh burn.

This Cristalino tequila, aged in ex-port barrels, caters to those new to tequila. Its smoothness and sweetness make it easy to drink, lacking the bite sometimes associated with tequilas. However, it is important to note that it strays from the traditional agave-forward flavor profile, leaning more towards a flavored vodka.

If you enjoy smooth, sweet drinks, 1800 Cristalino might be a perfect fit. But for those seeking the authentic taste of tequila, it might not be the best choice.

1800 Milenio: Extra Añejo Aged in Cognac Casks

1800 Milenio presents a warm and inviting aroma of agave, butterscotch, vanilla, and oak. The taste takes a surprising turn, however, with a strong Cognac influence. Oak dominates the palate, leaving agave in a supporting role alongside raisins, chocolate, caramel, and spice. The finish is warm and dry, emphasizing caramel and oak.

Milenio is undeniably smooth and well-crafted, with no unpleasant aftertaste.

However, the aggressive oak influence disrupts the balance, making it taste more like a French Cognac than a tequila.

While enjoyable neat or on the rocks, for its price point, there are superior Extra Añejos that retain the essence of agave alongside the aged character.

This Milenio might appeal to those who enjoy Cognac or heavily oaked spirits, but those seeking a true agave-forward Extra Añejo tequila might be disappointed.

Buying Guide

Frequently Asked Questions

A quick FAQ:

What makes 1800 Milenio Extra Añejo the top choice in the 1800 lineup?

• 1800 Milenio Extra Añejo stands out for its Cognac-like qualities and rich flavors of raisin, caramel, and chocolate. It offers a sophisticated and smooth sipping experience, making it ideal for those who appreciate a luxurious Tequila.

Why is 1800 Añejo considered the best value for money?

• 1800 Añejo provides a solid sipping experience with a flavor profile that appeals to bourbon lovers. It's affordable, making it a great entry-level option for those looking to explore quality Tequila without spending too much.

What makes 1800 Silver a good choice for Margaritas?

• 1800 Silver is affordable and has a flavor profile that complements cocktail ingredients well. Its smoothness and subtle agave taste make it an excellent base for Margaritas and other mixed drinks.

Can 1800 Silver be used for shots?

• Yes, 1800 Silver is suitable for shots due to its 100% agave content, smooth taste, and affordability. It provides a pleasant Tequila experience without being too harsh.

How does 1800 Cristalino Añejo differ from traditional Tequila?

• 1800 Cristalino Añejo is exceptionally smooth and leans towards a sweet, easy-drinking experience. It's more reminiscent of flavored vodka than traditional Tequila, making it a good choice for those who prefer a less aggressive agave flavor.

How were these Tequilas selected?

• The selection was made based on expert advice from Tequila sommelier Neil Coleman, thorough taste testing, and customer feedback. The focus was on flavor, quality, and overall drinking experience.

What should consumers consider when choosing a 1800 Tequila?

• Consumers should consider the type of experience they are looking for (e.g., sipping vs. mixing), their flavor preferences (e.g., smooth and sweet vs. bold and agave-forward), and their budget.

Are these Tequilas suitable for both Tequila connoisseurs and beginners?

• Yes, the 1800 range offers options for both connoisseurs and beginners. For instance, Milenio Extra Añejo is excellent for seasoned drinkers, while Cristalino Añejo is more suitable for those new to Tequila.

How reliable are the ratings and opinions in this guide?

• The ratings and opinions are based on extensive research, expert advice, and customer reviews, making them a trustworthy source for anyone looking to explore the 1800 Tequila lineup.

Can these Tequilas be found at most liquor stores?

• While availability may vary, the 1800 Tequila range is generally well-distributed and can be found at most liquor stores or online retailers.