Cabo Wabo Tequila vs Patron: What’s the Difference? (2023)

Last Updated on December 29, 2022 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. 

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?

Final Thoughts

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. 

Reference:

1. https://www.forbes.com/sites/teresafinney/2018/11/16/mexicos-tequila-regulatory-council-not-sold-on-elon-musks-teslaquila/