Patron Silver vs Roca Patron Silver

Last Updated on: 20th May 2024, 01:37 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: Patron Silver vs Roca Patron Silver and determine the superior Tequila in this comprehensive analysis.

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

Patron Silver vs Roca Patron Silver: Comparison

Patron Silver is a classic tequila with a clear agave presence and a peppery finish. It's straightforward and decent for sipping on rocks but may not stand out in its price range. Suitable for traditional tequila fans, its value is debated given its premium pricing.

Roca Patron Silver offers a richer, sweeter taste with a notable agave flavor and a spicy kick, thanks to its traditional tahona production method. Its higher alcohol content enhances its complex profile, making it a preferred choice for those seeking depth in flavor. Although pricier, its quality and traditional craftsmanship justify the cost for enthusiasts.

Key Difference: The primary distinction lies in their production methods and flavor profiles; Roca Patron Silver's traditional approach and higher proof result in a more complex and sweeter tequila compared to the straightforward, peppery taste of Patron Silver. Roca Patron represents a premium offering with a corresponding price, appealing to connoisseurs willing to invest in a superior tequila experience.

Verdict: Both Patron Silver and Roca Patron Silver shine in their ways, offering distinct experiences for Tequila enthusiasts. Whether you seek a traditional taste or a sweeter, stronger sip, each has its merits without a clear winner, states tequila expert Neil Coleman.

Related: Small-Batch Tequila Brands

Patron Silver: A Decent Tequila with a Pricey Tag

• Nose: Agave, pepper, citrus, alcohol
• Palate: Alcohol, agave, pepper, citrus
• Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
• How to drink: Rocks
• Similar to: Suerte Blanco

Aroma: This Tequila features a prominent agave note, along with hints of black pepper and a touch of alcohol that fades with time.

Taste: Expect a medium-bodied Tequila with a slightly creamy texture. The initial alcohol presence is noticeable but fades, revealing a flavor profile of blue agave, citrus, and a peppery kick. The finish lingers with warmth and additional peppery notes.

Enjoyment: Patron Silver offers a classic Tequila taste and avoids additives, but it faces stiff competition in its category. Several options arguably surpass it, especially considering its current price point. It might be a good choice for those seeking a traditional Blanco Tequila experience, but keep in mind that other options may offer better value or flavor profiles.

Note: While Patron mentions it can be enjoyed neat, including it over ice tones down the alcohol and highlights the peppery notes, potentially making it more enjoyable for some.

Overall: Patron Silver is a decent, non-additive Blanco Tequila, but its price might not justify its average taste compared to other options. It's not the top choice in the Blanco category due to its cost exceeding its value.

Roca Patron Silver: A Sweeter Tequila with a Kick

• Nose: Agave, minerals, grapefruit
• Palate: Cooked agave, cinnamon, citrus
• Alcohol content: 90 proof (45% ABV)
• How to drink: Rocks
• Similar to: Cazcanes No. 9

Aroma: This Tequila leads with a strong agave presence, followed by subtle hints of salt, brine, and grapefruit.

Taste: Expect a rich agave flavor with a touch of sweetness, balanced by earthy notes, a hint of jalapeno pepper, and a pronounced minerality. The higher proof (90 compared to the usual 80) delivers a longer finish with a pleasant warmth and a satisfying blend of agave and peppery spice.

Enjoyment: Compared to the classic Patron Silver, Roca Patron boasts a sweeter profile due to its unique production method (details coming soon!). While the higher proof might bring a touch more warmth, it remains smooth and enjoyable. Many consider it a significant upgrade within its category, rivaling some of the best.

Price: At around $70, some might find it initially expensive, but the labor-intensive process and higher proof contribute to its value. While not the cheapest option, it falls within reasonable limits for a premium Tequila.

Learn More at Patron Website

How do they differ?

There are two main differences between them:

Roca Patron and Patron Silver are crafted using different production methods.

Roca Patron adheres to a traditional approach, utilizing a large tahona stone pulled by a beast to crush the agaves.

In contrast, Patron Silver combines a roller mill and a tahona stone.

The tahona stone preserves the natural sweetness from the agave fibers better than the modern roller mill.

Additionally, Roca Patron is bottled at a higher proof of 90, while Patron Silver has a slightly lower proof of 80.

Price comparison

Prices are approximate and stated in USD:

Specs comparison