Last Updated on: 20th May 2024, 01:40 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 differences between Jose Cuervo Silver and Patron Silver in this direct comparison to determine which Tequila suits your preference!
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
Patron vs Jose Cuervo: Comparison
Jose Cuervo Tradicional Silver: This affordable tequila offers a refreshing mix of mint, pepper, and grapefruit notes, making it an excellent choice for cocktails. Its affordability and versatile flavor profile appeal to home bartenders seeking quality without the high price, proving you can enjoy good tequila in mixed drinks without overspending.
Patron Silver: While it presents a smooth and balanced agave flavor with a pleasant finish, Patron Silver's higher price point raises questions about its value compared to other options. It's a decent choice for those who appreciate a well-made tequila for sipping on the rocks or in premium cocktails, but there are more compelling offerings at lower prices for those seeking exceptional taste and value.
Verdict: Jose Cuervo Tradicional Silver and Patron Silver cater to different needs and preferences. Cuervo Tradicional is a smart pick for budget-conscious consumers looking for a versatile mixer, while Patron Silver appeals to those willing to pay a premium for a brand with a strong reputation. Each has its place, depending on your priorities and how you plan to enjoy your tequila, states agave spirits expert Neil Coleman.
Related: Top Silver Tequilas under $30
Jose Cuervo Tradicional Silver: Budget-Friendly Tequila for Mixing
- Nose: Mint, pepper, agave grapefruit
- Palate: Black pepper, grapefruit, agave
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Cocktails
- Similar to: Jimador Blanco
A refreshing aroma: hints of mint mingle with balanced agave, grapefruit, and black pepper.
Spicy kick with a sweet twist: peppery first impression fades into sweet and tangy grapefruit and agave, with subtle earthy and floral notes.
Quick finish: moderate alcohol warmth with a touch of mint, citrus, and agave. Enjoy it over ice for a smoother experience.
My view:
- Great for mixing: Cuervo Tradicional Silver shines in cocktails thanks to its bold flavors and affordable price.
- Budget-friendly option: No need to break the bank when mixing drinks, as flavors tend to blend.
- Surprisingly good: Stands out from the brand's mixed reputation, offering a reliable choice for home bartenders.
Perfect for: tailgating, home bartenders looking for a solid budget tequila.
Cuervo Silver facts:
- Made only from agave, unlike some other Cuervo releases.
- Family-owned and the only major tequila producer still Mexican-owned.
Patron Silver: A Decent Tequila, But Worth the Price?
- Nose: Agave, pepper, citrus, alcohol
- Palate: Alcohol, agave, pepper, citrus
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Rocks
- Similar to: Don Julio Blanco
Aroma:
- Refreshing mix of agave, with a hint of black pepper and a touch of alcohol that fades quickly.
Taste:
- Smooth and balanced.
- Starts with a bit of a spicy kick, followed by clear agave notes and subtle citrus hints.
- Finishes warm and comforting, with lingering peppery notes.
Overall: Patron Silver offers a pleasant tequila experience with a strong agave flavor, smooth texture, and a warming finish. However, compared to other tequilas in its price range, it falls short of being exceptional.
While Patron uses a good production process, it doesn't quite stand out compared to the competition in terms of taste and value. This is why it didn't make it to our Top Silver Tequilas list.
Recommendation: Patron Silver is decent, but not mind-blowing. If you're not a huge fan of sipping tequila straight, try it with ice to tame the alcohol and pepper. However, considering the price, there are better options that offer more bang for your buck.
Additional Info:
- Established in 1989 by John Paul DeJoria, the founder of Paul Mitchell hair products.
- Made at the Siete Leguas Distillery until 2002, then moved to its own facility in Jalisco.
- Currently owned by the Bacardi company.
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
Tequila | Price |
Jose Cuervo Tradicional Silver | $25 |
Patron Silver | $52 |
Specs comparison
Characteristics | Jose Cuervo | Patron |
Type of tequila | Blanco | Blanco |
Aging length Months | None | None |
100% agave | Yes | Yes |
Grinding method | Diffuser | Roller mill/tahona stone |
Stainless steel tank fermentation | Yes | No |
Wood tank fermentation | No | Yes |
Cooking method | Autoclave | Stone/Brick ovens |
Double-distilled | Yes | No |
Triple-distilled | No | Yes |
Additives | Unsure | No |
Certified organic | No | No |
ABV | 40% | 40% |
Proof | 80 | 80 |