Last Updated on: 6th April 2024, 01:41 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 Lunazul Blanco 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
Hornitos Plata vs Lunazul Blanco: Comparison
Hornitos Plata Tequila: Offers a bold mix of alcohol warmth and peppery, fruity flavors. Best suited for cocktails, providing an affordable, versatile base. Short, warm finish.
Lunazul Blanco: Rich in agave with black pepper, cinnamon, and mint. Excels in cocktails, enhancing them with its complex, agave-forward taste. Long, slightly bitter finish.
Verdict: Hornitos Plata and Lunazul Blanco both serve as bases for creative cocktails, each bringing unique qualities to the mix. Whether seeking boldness or a rich agave presence, these options enhance the cocktail experience without breaking the bank, states tequila expert Neil Coleman.
Related: Budget Tequila Top Picks
Hornitos Plata Tequila: Budget-Friendly Mixing Option
- Nose: Alcohol, fruity notes
- Palate: Alcohol, black pepper, fruit, citrus
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Cocktails
- Similar to: Sauza Silver
Aroma: Hornitos Plata presents an upfront alcoholic aroma, followed by subtle hints of sweetness and fruity notes.
Taste: The initial sip delivers a burst of warmth accompanied by peppery notes. Fruity undertones emerge to offer a touch of relief from the heat.
Finish: The finish is brief, leaving a lingering warmth and peppery sensation.
A Mixing Essential: While Hornitos Plata might not be the smoothest choice for sipping neat, its bold and affordable character makes it a suitable option for mixing cocktails. It can add a kick to your favorite tequila drinks.
Hornitos Heritage: Crafted at the historic Sauza Distillery, Hornitos Plata carries the legacy of one of Mexico’s oldest tequila producers, dating back to 1873. Interestingly, the distillery also produces Sauza Tequila and Tequila Tres Generaciones. Today, Hornitos belongs to Suntory Holdings, a Japanese beverage giant.
Lunazul Blanco: Agave-Forward for Cocktail Creativity
- Nose: Agave, black pepper, alcohol, vanilla
- Palate: Agave, black pepper, cinnamon, mint
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Cocktails
- Similar to: 1800 Silver
Aroma: Lunazul Blanco opens with a bold and distinct aroma of roasted agave, accented by subtle hints of black pepper, vanilla, and a touch of alcohol.
Taste: The initial sip reveals a pleasant sweetness, dominated by agave flavors. Notes of black pepper, cinnamon, mint, and a refreshing citrus undertone emerge, creating a complex and intriguing profile.
Finish: The finish is remarkably long, offering a mild warmth and a slightly bitter aftertaste that lingers alongside a touch of black pepper. While adding ice can help subdue the heat and spice, the bitterness might still be noticeable.
Cocktail Champion: Despite its bold character, Lunazul Blanco excels in crafting delicious homemade cocktails. Consider using it in Mexican Mules or Tequila Mojitos for a refreshing and flavorful experience.
Lunar Inspiration: The name “Lunazul” translates to “Blue Moon,” hinting at the spirit’s unique character. Interestingly, while the company was founded by a member of the Jose Cuervo family, and the agave comes from their estate, Lunazul is not produced at the Jose Cuervo distillery. It has its own dedicated facility in the same region of Jalisco, Mexico.
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Tequila | Price |
| Hornitos Plata | $26 |
| Lunazul Blanco | $22 |
Specs comparison
| Characteristics | Hornitos | Lunazul |
| Type of tequila | Blanco | Blanco |
| Aging length | None | None |
| 100% agave | Yes | Yes |
| Grinding method | Diffuser | Roller mill |
| 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 |