Hornitos Plata Tequila Review

Last Updated on: 13th May 2024, 06:55 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.

Uncover all the details about Hornitos Plata Tequila in this thorough review that addresses all your queries!

Written by: J Highland

Hornitos Plata Tequila Review: Budget-Friendly Mixer But Not a Sipping Star

Rating: ⭐⭐

Hornitos Plata is a 100% agave tequila that falls into the "mixed opinions" category for tequila experts, including Neil Coleman. Here's a breakdown of its strengths and weaknesses:

Strengths:

Affordable: A budget-friendly option for those looking for a 100% agave tequila.
Good for Mixing: The clean and straightforward taste makes it a great base for cocktails, without overpowering other ingredients.

Weaknesses:

Lacks Complexity: May not offer the full agave flavor profile or herbal notes desired by some tequila connoisseurs.
Noticeable Alcohol Warmth: The alcohol presence might be a turn-off for those who prefer sipping tequilas neat.

Verdict:

Hornitos Plata is a solid choice for budget-conscious drinkers who prioritize using tequila in cocktails. The clean agave notes and affordable price make it a good option for mixing. However, if you're looking for a nuanced and flavorful blanco tequila to sip neat, you might want to explore other options that offer a more complex taste profile with less alcohol burn.

Related: Best Cheap Blanco Tequilas

Tasting Notes

Nose: Nail polish, alcohol, fake fruity notes
Palate: Alcohol, black pepper, fruit, citrus
Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
How to drink: Cocktails
Similar to: Cuervo Silver

The aroma on the nose is dominated by a strong presence of nail polish and alcohol, but there are also subtle hints of fake sweetness and fruitiness.

When tasted, Hornitos Plata delivers heat, with alcohol burn and a peppery character.

There is an underlying earthy quality, along with a somewhat artificial fruity note and a touch of citrus.

Unfortunately, the overwhelming presence of alcohol and pepper overshadows any sweetness, making it challenging to enjoy.

The finish is relatively short, leaving a warm and peppery sensation with an aftertaste reminiscent of mulch.

How did I review Hornitos Plata?

I run a pub and a liquor store, granting me extensive access to various spirits, in addition, I moonlight as an agave spirits distiller.

My evaluations include my insights and feedback from customers and patrons and Tequila expert opinions from Neil Coleman who has been for decades in the liquor business.

I also corroborate my views with online research to ensure accuracy.

Our ratings are determined primarily by four key factors: aroma, taste, finish, and value for money. While we do consider packaging, it is of lesser importance to us, as we prioritize the quality of the liquid inside over the aesthetics of the bottle.

⭐ - Poor, ⭐⭐ - Average, ⭐⭐⭐ - Good, ⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Very Good, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Excellent.

Frequently Asked Questions

Drinking Suggestions

Best heavily mixed with fruity juices or sodas to mask its unfavorable taste.
Can be used in Batanga, Ranch Water, and Tequila Sunrise cocktails.
Mixing it with pineapple juice or cola can improve the drinking experience.

Suitability for Margaritas

Hornitos Plata can be used for Margaritas but is not ideal due to its chemical taste.
It can create a decent Margarita when no better options are available.

Suitability for Shots

Not recommended as a shooter due to its rocket fuel taste and harsh burn.

Pricing

Drizly: Approximately $26
Total Wine: Approximately $20

Alcohol Content

Standard 80 proof (40% ABV).

Shelf Life and Storage

Tequila remains good indefinitely if stored correctly. Consume soon once it's down to about 25% to avoid taste changes.

Freezing Properties

Can be chilled in the fridge without freezing. Better served chilled than diluted with ice.

Sugar and Carbohydrate Content

Low in sugar, suitable for those on strict diets. Avoid sugary sodas as mixers.
Carb-free and Keto-friendly, but moderation is key due to alcohol.

Use of Additives

The possible presence of artificial fruity notes suggests additives.
For pure and authentic Tequila options, explore the list of additive-free Tequilas.