Last Updated on: 6th April 2024, 01:02 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 Don Julio 70 and Don Julio Blanco in this in-depth comparison created with expert insights and customer feedback 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
Don Julio 70 vs Don Julio Blanco: Head-to-Head
- Don Julio 70 is celebrated for its exceptional smoothness, combining Añejo complexity with a Blanco’s appearance, making it ideal for those seeking a sophisticated, smooth drinking experience.
- Don Julio Blanco offers a straightforward agave flavor profile, perfect for various drinking methods, including sipping and cocktail mixing.
- Key Differences: Don Julio 70 is aged 18 months and undergoes charcoal filtration for a smooth, refined taste, while Blanco is unaged, providing a fresher, more direct agave taste.
- Value: Both offer great value, with 70 being a premium choice for smoothness lovers and Blanco for those seeking quality at a more accessible price point.
- Conclusion: The choice depends on preference for smoothness and complexity (70) vs. freshness and versatility (Blanco), with pricing reflecting the additional processing and aging of Don Julio 70, states tequila expert Neil Coleman.
Related: Don Julio Tequila Top Selections
Don Julio 70: A Crystal-Clear Añejo Experience
- Nose: Floral, vanilla, agave, oak
- Palate: Vanilla, caramel, oak
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Rocks
Floral & Sweet Aroma: Don Julio 70 entices with a delightful aroma that blends floral notes, honey, and hints of blue agave and vanilla.
Rich Vanilla & Oak Flavor: On the palate, Don Julio 70 delivers a rich taste experience dominated by flavors of vanilla, oak, and caramel, with a subtle presence of blue agave reminding you it’s tequila.
Smooth & Peppery Finish: The finish is as smooth as you’d expect, lingering with notes of vanilla, oak, and a touch of black pepper, providing a pleasant warmth without being overpowering.
Añejo Character, Blanco Clarity: Don Julio 70 is a unique Cristalino Tequila, aged for 18 months in oak barrels like an Añejo but filtered through charcoal for a crystal-clear appearance like a Blanco.
Perfect for Tequila Lovers of All Levels: This innovative tequila boasts exceptional smoothness, making it a great choice for both tequila beginners and experienced drinkers alike. It’s known as one of Don Julio’s smoothest offerings.
18 Months of Aging, Charcoal Filtered Smoothness: Don Julio 70 is crafted using a special process. After 18 months of aging in oak barrels to develop its rich character, it’s charcoal filtered to achieve its signature clarity and exceptional smoothness.
Triple Distilled for Purity: Don Julio 70 undergoes a triple-distillation process, contributing to its overall smoothness and refined taste.
A Celebratory Spirit: This unique tequila was created to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the distillery founded by Don Julio Gonzalez in 1942. Today, the brand is owned by Diageo, a beverage giant based in London.
Don Julio Blanco: Smooth Tequila for Every Palate
- Nose: Alcohol, agave, orange, earth
- Palate: Agave, black pepper, citrus, alcohol
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Rocks
Light & Refreshing: Don Julio Blanco offers a smooth and slightly sweet taste with a clean agave aroma.
Citrus & Spice: Look for bright citrus flavors balanced with hints of earth, minerals, and a touch of black pepper in the finish.
A Tequila for Everyone: Don Julio Blanco is a great choice for both tequila beginners and seasoned drinkers. Its smooth profile makes it enjoyable to sip neat or use in cocktails.
Budget-Conscious Mixing: While Don Julio Blanco is a versatile tequila, its price point might not be ideal for every cocktail recipe.
A Respected Choice: While not the absolute top-shelf silver tequila, Don Julio Blanco holds a well-deserved spot among quality tequilas.
A Legacy of Quality: Founded in 1942 by Don Julio Gonzalez, the brand has a long history of dedication to producing high-quality tequilas.
Unique Bottle Design: Don Julio’s signature square bottle, designed by the founder himself, allows for easier conversation across the table – a thoughtful touch!
How do Don Julio Blanco and Don Julio 70 differ?
Don Julio 70 is distinct for its charcoal filtration, setting it apart. Don Julio Blanco, clear and unaged, contrasts with Don Julio 70’s 18-month aging in American oak barrels and subsequent color-removing charcoal filter, enhancing smoothness.
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Tequila | Price |
| Don Julio 70 | $64 |
| Don Julio Blanco | $38 |
Specs comparison
| Characteristics | Don Julio | Don Julio 70 |
| Type of tequila | Blanco | Cristalino |
| Aging length in months | None | 18 |
| 100% agave | Yes | Yes |
| Grinding method | Roller mill | Roller mill |
| Stainless steel tank fermentation | Yes | Yes |
| Cooking method | Stone/Brick Ovens | Stone/Brick Ovens |
| Double-distilled | Yes | No |
| Triple-distilled | No | Yes |
| Additives | No | Unsure |
| ABV | 40% | 40% |
| Proof | 80 | 80 |