Last Updated on: 5th April 2024, 11:01 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 Lalo Blanco vs Don Julio 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
Lalo Blanco vs Don Julio Blanco: Head-to-Head
Lalo Tequila: Featuring agave, citrus, and a hint of earthiness. Smooth, with a natural sweetness and short finish. Ideal for those appreciating minimal warmth and genuine flavors.
Don Julio Blanco: Offers a prominent alcohol aroma but delivers a smooth, sweet palate with citrus and black pepper. Known for its approachable profile, suitable for a wide range of tequila drinkers.
Verdict: Lalo Tequila and Don Julio Blanco both honor traditional tequila-making, with Lalo focusing on a pure, straightforward flavor and Don Julio providing a classic, versatile experience. Each appeals to enthusiasts looking for quality and authenticity in their tequila, states agave spirits expert Neil Coleman.
Related: What are the Best Blancos for sipping
Lalo Tequila: A Legacy of Quality Meets Modernity
- Nose: Agave, citrus, green grass, black pepper
- Palate: Agave, pepper, citrus, cinnamon, vanilla
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Rocks
- Similar to: Patron Silver
Grandson’s Tribute: Lalo Tequila carries the legacy of Don Julio Gonzalez, the founder of Tequila Don Julio, as it’s crafted by his grandson.
Aroma: Lalo greets the nose with a light and pleasant agave aroma, interwoven with hints of citrus, black pepper, and a touch of earthiness.
Taste: The first sip reveals Lalo’s natural sweetness, balanced by citrus, vanilla, cinnamon, and a touch of black pepper. Its smooth, oily texture and minimal warmth make it easy to enjoy.
Finishing Touch: The finish is short but leaves a lingering warmth and a pleasant note of baking spice.
Honest Take: Lalo Tequila offers a genuine tequila experience, free from additives and showcasing rich natural tequila flavors. While not the most complex, it delivers a smooth and authentic taste appreciated by tequila enthusiasts of all levels.
Beyond the Bottle: Founded in Austin, Texas, Lalo is crafted in Jalisco, Mexico, by Grupo Tequilero Mexico, a distillery producing several other tequila brands.
Don Julio Blanco: Approachable Tequila for All Tastes
- Nose: Agave, alcohol, citrus, earth
- Palate: Agave, black pepper, citrus, alcohol
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Rocks
- Similar to: Casa Noble Blanco
Aroma: Don Julio Blanco presents a prominent alcohol presence on the nose. While this might suggest a strong flavor, it doesn’t necessarily translate to the taste.
Taste: Despite a slightly thin body, Don Julio Blanco offers a smooth and sweet experience. Citrus notes mingle with earthy and mineral tones, accented by a touch of black pepper.
Finish: The finish is moderately long, leaving a slightly sweet and spicy sensation.
A Blanco for Everyone: Don Julio Blanco is known for its smooth and approachable profile, making it suitable for both tequila beginners and experienced drinkers seeking a classic Blanco experience. It can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or as a base for various cocktails.
Beyond the Bottle: Don Julio’s story began in 1942 with Don Julio González’s vision of creating high-quality tequilas. He even designed the unique, square-shaped bottle to promote connection across the table. Today, Don Julio is part of the Diageo portfolio, alongside renowned brands like Johnnie Walker.
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Tequila | Price |
| Lalo Blanco | $49 |
| Don Julio Blanco | $53 |
Specs comparison
| Characteristics | Lalo | Don Julio |
| Type of tequila | Blanco | Blanco |
| Aging length in months | None | None |
| 100% agave | Yes | Yes |
| Grinding method | Roller mill | Roller mill |
| Stainless steel tank fermentation | Yes | No |
| Wood tank fermentation | No | Yes |
| Cooking method | Stone ovens | Stone ovens |
| Double-distilled | Yes | Yes |
| Triple-distilled | No | No |
| Additives | No | Unsure |
| ABV | 40% | 40% |
| Proof | 80 | 80 |