Last Updated on: 5th April 2024, 09:12 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 Espolon Blanco vs Olmeca Altos Plata 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
Espolon vs Olmeca Altos: Head-to-Head
- Espolon Blanco: Offers classic Tequila flavors with a hint of pepper, making it versatile for cocktails. Appreciated for its balanced taste and captivating bottle design. Provides good value for its quality.
- Olmeca Altos Plata: Known for its earthy and vegetal notes, making it a bit more complex. It shines in cocktails due to its rich agave and herbal flavors. Offers great value, especially for those who prefer a more distinctive flavor profile in their cocktails.
Verdict: Both Tequilas are excellent choices under $30 for making cocktails. The decision between Espolon and Olmeca Altos should be based on flavor preference: Espolon for those who enjoy classic Tequila tastes and Olmeca Altos for those seeking earthy notes, states tequila expert Neil Coleman.
Related: Cheap Blanco Tequila List
Espolon Blanco: A Solid Budget-Friendly Tequila
- Nose: Agave, black pepper, citrus, alcohol
- Palate: Agave, black pepper, citrus
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Rocks, cocktails
- Similar to: Don Julio Blanco
Aroma: Espolon Blanco presents an earthy aroma with hints of black pepper and alcohol.
Taste: The initial sip starts with a slight warmth that develops into a pleasant sweetness with fruity notes and vanilla.
Finish: The finish is medium-length, featuring citrus flavors and a peppery, warming sensation.
Overall: Espolon Blanco offers a good value for the price, exceeding expectations for a budget-friendly tequila. Its flavor profile incorporates classic tequila characteristics like vanilla, agave, subtle sweetness, and a touch of citrus. The light and fruity character makes it suitable for mixing in cocktails. While not leaving a lasting impression, it delivers a solid and satisfying experience.
Additional Notes:
- Developed by Cirilo Oropeza, who spent years learning the tequila industry with Jose Cuervo Tequila.
- Currently owned by Gruppo Campari, known for brands like Cabo Wabo.
Please note: This review is for informational purposes only and does not promote excessive alcohol consumption. Please drink responsibly.
Olmeca Altos Plata: A Cocktail Hero, But Not a Solo Act
- Nose: Agave, earth, orange, mint
- Palate: Agave, black pepper, citrus, brine
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Cocktails
- Similar to: Teremana Blanco
Aroma: Olmeca Altos Plata presents an earthy and vegetal nose with hints of agave, orange, and mint.
Taste: The initial sip reveals intense herbal flavors that transition into spiciness and sweetness from the agave.
Finish: The finish is warm and peppery, with a slight burn and a salty aftertaste.
Overall: While Olmeca Altos Plata might be challenging to enjoy neat due to its bold and earthy character, it shines in cocktails. Its rich vegetal and earthy notes make it an ideal choice for classic concoctions like margaritas, ranch water, and even tequila sunrises. Its versatility extends to mixed drinks with pineapple juice, making it a valuable addition to any bar cart.
Additional Notes:
- Crafted using a traditional method of crushing the agave piñas with a two-ton tahona stone, believed to preserve the natural sweetness better than modern roller mills.
- Cooked in brick and stone ovens, contributing to a unique taste profile that avoids the industrial feel of mass-produced tequilas.
- Awarded a gold medal at the 2015 Los Angeles International Spirits Competition.
- Currently owned by Pernod Ricard, a major player in the beverage industry, known for brands like Chivas Regal and Glenlivet.
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Tequila | Price |
| Espolon Blanco | $28 |
| Olmeca Altos Plata | $29 |
Specs comparison
| Characteristics | Espolon | Olmeca Altos |
| Type of tequila | Blanco | Blanco |
| Aging length | None | None |
| 100% agave | Yes | Yes |
| Grinding method | Roller mill | Tahona Stone |
| Stainless steel tank fermentation | Yes | Yes |
| Wood tank fermentation | No | No |
| Cooking method | Autoclave | Brick Ovens |
| Double-distilled | Yes | Yes |
| Additives | Unlikely | Unlikely |
| ABV | 40% | 40% |
| Proof | 80 | 80 |