Last Updated on April 12, 2024 by Lydia Martin
Strength and flavor are a strong suit of Cabo Wabo tequila. On the other hand, Patron takes pride in its flavor and smoothness, enough to be labeled as a breakfast tequila. Between the two crowd favorite, which is the better spirit?
Let’s get down to the tiniest details that set these two top-shelf tequilas apart as we deliver this Cabo Wabo Tequila vs Patron review.
Comparing Cabo Wabo Tequila & Patron
Cabo Wabo came in much later than Patron, giving the latter the advantage when it comes to experience. However, we can compare the two with their Blancos, praised because the strong flavors mask the burning sensation.
Cabo Wabo Blanco has a strong alcohol presence. The taste of agave is subtle, along with spice and earthy notes. Meanwhile, Patron took on the flavors of agave heads on. It has peppery and nutty flavors with hints of eucalyptus.
How They Differ
History
Cabo Wabo was a celebrity-endorsed tequila. The legendary Sammy Hagar owned it before selling it to Campari and launched it in 1996.
Patron, on the other hand, is a self-made tequila. It was launched in 1989 and became an instant success. It never went down the ladder. It is a premium tequila brand and is now owned by Bacardi.
Production Process
Cabo Wabo uses a brick oven to cook Blue Weber agave around 8-12 years old. It is roller-milled before natural fermentation, double distillation, and bottled.
On the other hand, Patron is produced by blending two triple-distilled Blancos. The first variant is a product of traditional tahona, while the other is with a modern roller shredder. Once blended, it is bottled right away.
Raw Ingredients
Cabo Wabo uses 8-12 years old Blue Weber agaves harvested from the highlands of Jalisco, Mexico. There are no additives used during the production of this spirit. This tequila is also gluten-free.
Patron also uses Blue Weber agave from Hacienda Patron, where all their agaves are grown. There are no added ingredients, including sugar. This product is carb-free, sugar-free, and 100% organic.
Flavor Notes
Palate
Cabo Wabo has a smooth, full-bodied flavor of fruits and pink pepper, dry agave taste, and savory banana, spice, and coconut notes with a long finish.
The taste of Patron is smooth and lush. The palate has dry but savory mineral tones with full flavors of roasted agave with sweet vanilla and anise undertone.
Nose
Cabo Wabo has full notes of roasted agave and nuts with hints of fruity flavors of tropical fruits and spices. On the other hand, Patron has a medium earthy smell with a hint of eucalyptus and a slight vanilla note. But what’s the best Patron tequila?
Color
Cabo Wabo has clear and crisp color, natural color for a well-distilled tequila. Meanwhile, Patron has a soft silver-white color from the pure juices of Blue Weber fruit.
Finish
Cabo Wabo has a long fruity finish with a harsh presence of alcohol when swallowed, making it unpleasant when taken neat.
On the contrary, Patron tequila has a light peppery finish that leaves a strong alcohol aftertaste. It has a slight burn when drank or sipped.
Alcohol Content
Cabo Wabo and Patron are both 80 proof with 40% ABV. This percentage is the typical alcohol content of tequilas as per statute. Mexican tequila regulations [1] stipulate that ABV must be only 35% to 55%.
Price
Cabo Wabo is priced lower than Patron Blanco Tequila. Each 750ml bottle is roughly $33. Cabo Wabo Reposado and Añejo are also priced lower than Patron’s variants.
Meanwhile, Patron Silver Tequila is priced at around $49 per 750ml, over $10. Other variants are priced higher, Patron Reposado and Añejo, as these require lengthier processes and more resources.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Which is smoother, Patron or Cabo Wabo?
Patron is smoother than Cabo Wabo. The two unaged tequilas are not good at sipping tequilas because of the noticeable burn when swallowed neat. However, because of Patron’s finer and longer process, the harsh notes are swift, and it does not last long.
Is Cabo Wabo better for margaritas than Patron?
Yes, Cabo Wabo is better for margaritas than Patron because it has a lower price.
However, both tequilas have strong roasted agave flavors with a mix of citrus and pepper and a stronghold of alcohol, making it a good margarita mix. But what should you mix with Patron tequila?
Is Cabo Wabo a good tequila?
Cabo Wabo is generally considered a good tequila, known for its smooth and approachable flavor profile. It was originally created by rock musician Sammy Hagar, and the brand has gained popularity for producing quality tequilas. Cabo Wabo offers a range of expressions, including blanco, reposado, and añejo, each with its unique characteristics. The brand’s commitment to quality ingredients and traditional production methods contributes to its positive reputation among tequila enthusiasts.
What tequila is better than Patron?
Determining which tequila is “better” than Patron is subjective and depends on individual taste preferences. There are several high-quality tequila brands, each offering unique flavor profiles and characteristics. Some alternatives to Patron that are often well-regarded include Don Julio, Casa Noble, and Clase Azul. Exploring different tequilas allows individuals to find the one that aligns with their particular palate.
What is the number 1 ranked tequila?
There isn’t a universally agreed-upon “number 1 ranked tequila” as preferences for tequila can vary widely. However, some tequilas consistently receive high praise in the industry. Recognition is often given to premium brands such as Patrón, Don Julio, and Clase Azul. It’s important to note that personal taste plays a significant role, and what one person considers the best tequila may differ from someone else’s opinion.
Where does Patron rank in tequila?
Patrón is widely recognized as one of the leading and respected tequila brands globally. It is often considered a premium tequila, and its various expressions, including blanco, reposado, and añejo, are well-regarded for their quality. Patrón has played a significant role in popularizing and elevating the perception of tequila worldwide. While rankings can vary, Patrón consistently holds a prominent position in the tequila industry.
Why is Cabo Wabo famous?
Cabo Wabo is famous for its association with Sammy Hagar, the rock musician and former Van Halen lead vocalist who founded the brand. Hagar initially opened the Cabo Wabo Cantina in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, as a place for fans to enjoy music, food, and tequila. The success of the cantina led to the creation of Cabo Wabo Tequila. The brand gained fame not only for its connection to Hagar but also for producing quality tequilas with a focus on enjoyable and smooth flavors. Cabo Wabo Tequila has become synonymous with the lively atmosphere of the Cabo Wabo Cantina and the rock-and-roll spirit of Sammy Hagar.
Is Cabo Wabo a smooth tequila?
Cabo Wabo tequila is often described as smooth, making it a popular choice among tequila enthusiasts. The brand offers a range of expressions, including blanco, reposado, and añejo. Smoothness in tequila can be attributed to factors such as the quality of the agave used, the distillation process, and the aging period. Cabo Wabo’s commitment to using high-quality ingredients and traditional production methods contributes to the smooth and enjoyable characteristics of its tequilas.
Is Patron low-quality tequila?
No, Patron is not considered low-quality tequila. In fact, Patron is widely recognized as a premium tequila brand that has played a significant role in elevating the reputation of tequila globally. The brand offers a range of expressions, including blanco, reposado, and añejo, each crafted with attention to quality and using 100% Weber blue agave. Patron’s popularity and premium positioning contribute to its positive perception among tequila enthusiasts.
What tequila is equal to Patron?
Several tequilas are often considered on par with Patron in terms of quality and premium positioning. Some alternatives that are well-regarded in the tequila industry include Don Julio, Clase Azul, Casa Noble, and Avión. These brands are recognized for their craftsmanship, use of high-quality agave, and commitment to producing top-tier tequilas.
Why is Patron so expensive?
Patron is considered an expensive tequila due to several factors. Firstly, Patron is crafted with 100% Weber blue agave, which is a premium and sought-after agave variety. The production process involves traditional methods, such as slow-roasting the agave in brick ovens and using a tahona wheel for crushing. Additionally, Patron is known for its meticulous distillation and aging processes, contributing to the complexity and smoothness of its tequilas. The brand’s reputation as a premium tequila further supports its higher price point.
What kind of tequila is Cabo Wabo?
Cabo Wabo offers a range of tequila expressions, including blanco, reposado, and añejo, covering a spectrum of aging periods. The type of tequila produced by Cabo Wabo falls into the categories of 100% agave tequila, ensuring that the spirit is made solely from the agave plant without the addition of other sugars. The specific characteristics of each expression may vary, with blanco being unaged, reposado aged for a short period, and añejo aged for an extended duration in oak barrels. Cabo Wabo tequila is known for its quality, smoothness, and the lively spirit associated with its founder, Sammy Hagar, the rock musician and entrepreneur.
Final Thoughts: Cabo Wabo Tequila Vs Patron
Patron certainly wins this battle, not just because it has a more established reputation. Blancos are expected to have that raw agave taste and a bite, which you will find on both. However, Patron managed to keep it swift, making it bearable to sip or drink neat.
It does not mean that Cabo Wabo Blanco is an unbearable spirit. Some who want to enjoy their drink without any mixer would want something that does not scratch their throats. It makes Patron the winner for us.
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