Last Updated on: 6th April 2024, 01:04 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 Cabo Wabo Blanco vs Don Julio Blanco in this in-depth 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
Cabo Wabo vs Don Julio: Comparison
- Cabo Wabo is preferred for cocktails due to its bold flavors of agave, black pepper, and citrus, adding a vibrant kick to mixed drinks.
- Don Julio Blanco is better suited for sipping, offering a smoother and sweeter taste with balanced notes of agave, citrus, and a subtle peppery finish.
- Value: Both Tequilas are similarly priced, but Don Julio offers a refined experience for sipping, while Cabo Wabo provides the robust flavor needed for cocktails.
- Conclusion: The choice between Cabo Wabo and Don Julio depends on your drinking preference; Cabo Wabo for cocktails and Don Julio for a sipping experience, states tequila expert Neil Coleman.
Related: Top Tequilas for Ranch Water Cocktails
Cabo Wabo Blanco: Bold Tequila for Mixing
- Nose: Alcohol, agave, citrus, smoke
- Palate: Alcohol, agave, black pepper, citrus
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Cocktails
- Similar to: Patron Silver
Bold & Agave Forward:
Cabo Wabo Blanco offers a bold flavor profile with a distinct agave presence. While the initial aroma has a noticeable alcoholic note that fades, it reveals hints of agave, citrus, and a touch of smokiness.
Warm & Peppery:
The taste is warming, with a peppery undertone that lingers on the finish. Dominant agave flavors are joined by a hint of orange, creating a complex yet bold tequila experience.
It lacks the smoothness of some high-end tequilas, but this characteristic makes it well-suited for mixing in cocktails like Margaritas, where the agave and peppery notes can complement other ingredients.
Mixing Magic:
Despite using 100% agave, Cabo Wabo Blanco might not be the smoothest choice for sipping neat. However, its bold flavor profile shines in cocktails, making it a great option for those who prioritize a strong agave presence in their mixed drinks.
While there might be tequilas offering a smoother taste at a similar price point, Cabo Wabo Blanco’s strength lies in its ability to add complexity and character to cocktails.
Don Julio Silver: Smooth Tequila for Sipping or Cocktails
- Nose: Alcohol, agave, orange, earth
- Palate: Agave, black pepper, citrus, alcohol
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Rocks
- Similar to: Don Julio 70
Sweet & Citrusy:
Don Julio Silver offers a smooth and inviting taste profile. While there’s a noticeable alcohol aroma, it doesn’t overpower the pleasant sweetness. Vibrant citrus notes take center stage, complemented by subtle earthy undertones and a hint of black pepper for a touch of complexity.
Balanced & Versatile:
The finish is balanced, with lingering sweetness and a gentle peppery bite. This balanced profile makes Don Julio Silver a great choice for sipping neat or on the rocks, as well as a versatile base for cocktails.
Appeals to a Range of Tastes:
Don Julio Silver’s smooth taste and crowd-pleasing sweetness appeal to both tequila novices and experienced drinkers. While its premium price might not be ideal for every cocktail, its quality and reputation make it a solid choice in the silver tequila category.
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD
| Tequila | Price |
| Cabo Wabo Blanco | $37 |
| Don Julio Blanco | $38 |
Specs comparison
| Characteristics | Cabo Wabo | Don Julio |
| Type of tequila | Blanco | Blanco |
| Aging length in months | None | None |
| 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 |
| Additives | No | No |
| ABV | 40% | 40% |
| Proof | 80 | 80 |