Last Updated on: 6th April 2024, 02:00 am
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 Hornitos Plata vs Hornitos Reposado in this in-depth comparison and decide which 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
Hornitos Plata vs Hornitos Reposado: Comparison
Hornitos Plata: A budget-friendly mixer with a straightforward alcohol and black pepper profile, accented by a hint of fruit. Best suited for cocktails where its simple, peppery taste can complement other flavors.
Hornitos Reposado: Offers a mix of jalapeno, oak, and black pepper. While it’s budget-friendly for cocktails, its pronounced jalapeno and alcoholic flavors may not appeal to sippers.
Verdict: Both Hornitos Plata and Hornitos Reposado serve as cost-effective choices for cocktails, providing basic tequila flavors that can blend well in mixed drinks. Their straightforward profiles are designed more for mixing than sipping, catering to those seeking affordable options for their bar essentials, states tequila expert Neil Coleman.
Hornitos Plata: A Budget-Friendly Option for Mixing
- 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: Jose Cuervo Silver
Hornitos Plata is a budget-friendly tequila specifically designed for mixing cocktails. Here’s what you need to know:
Aroma: Primarily alcohol with a subtle hint of fruity sweetness.
Taste: The flavor profile is dominated by alcohol, with accompanying peppery notes and a touch of fruity sweetness. The finish is short, leaving a warm and peppery sensation.
Best for mixing: Due to its prominent alcohol presence and limited flavor complexity, Hornitos Plata is not recommended for sipping. However, it serves as an affordable option for creating cocktails like those mixed with cola or cantaritos.
Made in historic distillery: While the tequila itself might not be top-shelf, it’s interesting to note that Hornitos Plata is crafted at the Sauza Distillery, which also produces Sauza Tequila and Tres Generaciones.
Bonus fact: The Sauza Distillery dates back to 1873, making it one of Mexico’s oldest tequila producers.
Hornitos Reposado: Budget-Friendly for Mixing, But Not Sipping
- Nose: Oak, banana, mango, alcohol
- Palate: Jalapeno, oak, black pepper, alcohol
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Cocktails
- Similar to: Sauza Gold
Hornitos Reposado offers a budget-friendly option for mixing cocktails, but its taste profile might not be ideal for sipping neat or on the rocks. Here’s a breakdown:
Aroma: Expect a subtle oak scent with hints of banana, mango, and a touch of alcohol.
Taste: The initial flavor features jalapeno and black pepper, followed by oak, alcohol, and earthy notes. The finish is short and warm, with hints of caramel and black pepper.
Better in a mix: While the 100% agave content makes it a potentially hangover-friendlier option for margaritas, its taste profile with pronounced jalapeno and alcohol notes might not be enjoyable for sipping.
Focus on budget and mixing: If you’re looking for a cost-effective tequila for mixing cocktails, Hornitos Reposado can be an option. However, it’s important to be aware that its taste may not be suitable for everyone, especially those who prefer sipping tequilas.
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Tequila | Price |
| Hornitos Plata | $26 |
| Hornitos Reposado | $27 |
Specs comparison
| Characteristics | Sauza Hornitos | Sauza Hornitos |
| Type of tequila | Blanco | Reposado |
| Aging length | None | 2 months |
| 100% agave | Yes | Yes |
| Grinding method | Diffuser | Diffuser |
| Stainless steel tank fermentation | Yes | Yes |
| Wood tank fermentation | No | No |
| Cooking method | Autoclave | Autoclave |
| Double-distilled | Yes | Yes |
| Additives | Unsure | Unsure |
| ABV | 40% | 40% |
| Proof | 80 | 80 |