Last Updated on: 20th May 2024, 01:40 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.
Explore the differences between Kirkland Silver Tequila and Patron Silver in this comprehensive comparison to make the ideal Tequila choice 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
Kirkland Silver vs Patron Silver: Comparison
Kirkland Silver Tequila: Offers good value for a 100% agave tequila, ideal for mixing in cocktails. Not the smoothest for neat sips, but its low price and quality make it a standout for party drinks.
Patron Silver Tequila: A decent, smooth tequila with a strong agave flavor and a peppery finish. Its higher price may not fully match the taste for some, making it a less exceptional value compared to others.
Verdict: Kirkland Silver shines in the value department, perfect for those who mix drinks. Patron Silver caters to those seeking brand recognition and a smoother sip, albeit at a higher cost. Each serves different preferences and occasions, with Kirkland excelling in budget-friendly quality and Patron in brand prestige, states tequila expert Neil Coleman.
Related: Tequilas to Make Cocktails
Kirkland Silver Tequila: Great Value, Not for Sipping

- Nose: Agave, vanilla, alcohol
- Palate: Agave, alcohol, black pepper
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Cocktails
Taste: Starts with fresh agave, a hint of vanilla, and a touch of alcohol. It's warm and peppery at first, then softens to roasted agave with a touch of sweetness and a hint of earthiness. The finish is warm, peppery, and short to medium length.
Good for mixing: While not the smoothest for sipping neat, Kirkland Silver is a solid choice for mixing. It's a great value for a 100% agave Tequila, especially at its price point.
Why it stands out: Finding a half-gallon of 100% agave Tequila below $20 is rare. Many cheap Tequilas use blends, which can cause hangovers. Kirkland avoids this, offering a hangover-free option.
Bonus facts: Made from 100% Blue agave in Jalisco, Mexico.
Patron Silver Tequila: Authentic Choice

- Nose: Agave, pepper, citrus, alcohol
- Palate: Alcohol, agave, pepper, citrus
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Rocks
Aroma: Fresh agave with a touch of black pepper and a hint of alcohol (that fades quickly).
Taste: Smooth and creamy mouthfeel with a warm, peppery start. Agave flavors shine, with hints of citrus. The finish is lingering, warm, and peppery.
Overall: Patron Silver is a decent tequila with a strong agave presence, a smooth texture, and a warm finish.
Bonus facts: Founded in 1989, Patron was initially made at another distillery before opening its own in 2002. It's now owned by Bacardi.
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Tequila | Price | Bottle size |
| Kirkland Silver | $19 | 1.75L |
| Patron Silver | $52 | 750ml |
Costco's Kirkland Tequila and Patron are not the same Tequila
Contrary to urban legends and fake news, it is essential to clarify that Kirkland Silver Tequila is not produced at the Patron Distillery.
These two Tequilas are crafted at separate distilleries.
Kirkland Silver Tequila can be identified by the 1472 NOM ID number, which signifies the specific distillery where it is produced.
On the other hand, Patron Tequila displays the 1492 NOM, indicating its distinct distillery of origin.
It's crucial to rely on accurate information when discussing the production and origins of these Tequilas, and the NOM ID numbers serve as concrete evidence that Kirkland and Patron are indeed crafted at different distilleries.
Specs comparison
| Characteristics | Kirkland | Patron Silver |
| Type of tequila | Blanco | Blanco |
| Aging length in months | None | None |
| 100% agave | Yes | Yes |
| Grinding method | Roller mill | Roller mill/Tahona Stone |
| Stainless steel tank fermentation | No | No |
| Wood tank fermentation | Yes | Yes |
| Cooking method | Autoclave | Stone/Brick Ovens |
| Double-distilled | Yes | Yes |
| Additives | No | No |
| ABV | 40% | 40% |
| Proof | 80 | 80 |
