Last Updated on February 24, 2024 by Lydia Martin
Jose Cuervo is one of the best-selling tequila brands in the world, and this excellent brand offers a wide selection of tequila.
Two of the most prominent offerings from the brand are Jose Cuervo Gold and Silver.
But which is tastier, cheaper, and ideal to be consumed in shots and cocktails?
Here’s the comprehensive comparison between Jose Cuervo Gold vs Silver. Keep scrolling.
Comparing Jose Cuervo Gold vs Silver
The Silver tequila has a clear color with a sweet and strong agave flavor, while the Gold tequila has a caramel-like color with vanilla undertones.
Aside from their major color differences, they differ in taste. Jose Cuervo Gold is best consumed in shots, while the Jose Cuervo Silver is ideal for mixing cocktails.
The silver tequila is aged not longer than 60 days in steel barrels, while the gold is a blend of aged reposado and younger tequilas. Also, silver tequila is cheaper than gold tequila.
Key Differences
Color
One of the biggest and most notable differences between Jose Cuervo Gold and Silver is the color and appearance.
Jose Cuervo gold has a beautiful amber to caramel-like hue, while Jose Cuervo silver has a clear appearance.
The amber hue of gold tequila comes from the aging of tequila in barrels.
Production Process
Once the agaves are harvested and pruned, the piñas are cooked for eight hours before grinding.
Once the juices are extracted, they are fermented for 50 to 60 hours, distilled, and become Jose Cuervo Silver.
On the other hand, Jose Cuervo gold is a joven tequila, meaning it is a blend of reposado and younger tequilas.
The reposado tequila is aged for a minimum of two months in barrels.
Aging and Maturation
Jose Cuervo Silver is rested in steel barrels for not longer than 60 days, while Jose Cuervo Gold is matured in barrels for a minimum of two months.
The aging process in barrels gives the Jose Cuervo Gold tequila an amazing amber hue and vanilla undertones.
Jose Cuervo Gold is a blend of young tequilas and reposado aged for less than one year.
Price Point
Jose Cuervo Silver is cheaper than Jose Cuervo Gold, which makes sense because of the different production processes the gold tequila undergoes.
Based on ReserveBar, Jose Cuervo Silver is roughly $8.99, while the Jose Cuervo Gold is priced at approximately $11.49.
There’s not much difference in their price point, but their tasting notes have a lot to tell.
Tasting Notes
Jose Cuervo Gold
Palate: Prominent caramel, vanilla, strong peppery notes, sweet candy, and oak
Nose: Strong alcohol scent, caramel, and oak
Finish: Short, warm, sweet, and peppery
Jose Cuervo Silver
Palate: Citrus, herbaceous, black pepper, agave, some vanilla, and artificial bitterness
Nose: Grassy, herbaceous with a touch of sweet melon and persistent acetone-like aroma
Finish: Short, mild, and sweet
How To Drink It
Jose Cuervo Gold is best to be consumed in shots, while Jose Cuervo Silver is ideal to be enjoyed as a cocktail, like a margarita.
Aside from the clear color of silver tequila, its strong and sweet agave flavor is easier to be combined with mixers.
“Tequila treats you the same way you treat it. If you aggressively slam it back, it will get mad and return the favor.”
– Steve Calabro, Professional Bartender in Los Angeles
On the other hand, gold tequila has a smoother taste than silver, and it is easier to consume in shots with lime and salt.
Do Jose Cuervo Gold & Silver Share Similarities?
Distillery and Ownership
The Beckmann Family owns Jose Cuervo Gold and Silver. It is family owned by the descendants of Done Jose Antonio de Cuervo.
In addition, the production process of the two prominent tequilas is made in Jose Cuervo Distillery (Fábrica La Rojeña) in Tequila, Mexico.
Base Ingredients
Jose Cuervo Gold and Silver share similar base ingredients- blue agave plant.
However, unlike premium tequilas, it is distilled from at least 51% blue weber making it a mixto tequila [1].
If you noticed on the label, there is no “100% blue agave” in Jose Cuervo Gold and Silver, meaning they can make it from 51% blue weber agave and 49% other sugars.
Alcohol Proof
Jose Cuervo Silver and Gold features 80 alcohol proof or 40% ABV. It is the average alcohol content of most tequilas and is enough to get you drunk.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is Jose Cuervo silver tequila healthier than gold?
The healthiness of tequila depends more on factors like alcohol content and moderation rather than the color of the tequila. Generally, both silver (blanco) and gold (reposado or añejo) tequilas are made from the blue agave plant and contain similar alcohol content.
However, silver tequila is typically bottled shortly after distillation, whereas gold tequila is aged in barrels, which may impart additional flavors but doesn’t necessarily make it healthier. Remember, moderation is key when consuming any alcoholic beverage.
Is Jose Cuervo tequila gold good?
The quality and taste of Jose Cuervo Gold tequila can vary depending on personal preference. It’s a popular choice for many consumers and is often used in mixed drinks and cocktails.
Jose Cuervo Gold is known for its smooth and mellow flavor, with hints of caramel and oak from the aging process. While it may not offer the complexity of higher-end tequilas, it can be enjoyable for those who prefer a versatile and approachable option.
How strong is Jose Cuervo gold?
Jose Cuervo Gold tequila typically has an alcohol by volume (ABV) of around 40%, which is standard for most tequilas. This means that it contains 40% pure alcohol and is the same strength as many other spirits, such as vodka, rum, and whiskey. As with any alcoholic beverage, it’s essential to consume Jose Cuervo Gold responsibly and in moderation.
What is the main difference between Jose Cuervo Gold and Silver tequila?
The main difference between Jose Cuervo Gold and Silver tequila lies in their aging process and flavor profiles:
Jose Cuervo Gold: Also known as “oro” or “reposado,” Jose Cuervo Gold tequila is aged in oak barrels for a short period, giving it a golden hue and imparting flavors of caramel, vanilla, and oak. It has a smoother and more mellow taste compared to silver tequila, making it a popular choice for cocktails.
Jose Cuervo Silver: Also known as “blanco” or “plata,” Jose Cuervo Silver tequila is bottled shortly after distillation and does not undergo any aging process in oak barrels. It has a clear and transparent appearance and a crisp, fresh flavor profile with notes of agave, citrus, and pepper. Silver tequila is often preferred for its purity of flavor and is commonly used in cocktails where the taste of agave is prominent.
Ultimately, the choice between Jose Cuervo Gold and Silver tequila comes down to personal preference and the desired flavor profile for your drink. Whether you prefer the smoothness of aged tequila or the crispness of unaged tequila, both options can offer a delicious and enjoyable drinking experience.
Which one is better for cocktails, Gold or Silver?
Both gold and silver tequilas can be used in cocktails, but the choice depends on personal preference and the specific flavor profile desired for the drink.
Silver tequila, also known as blanco or plata, is often preferred for cocktails where the taste of agave is prominent and the spirit’s purity shines through. Its crisp, fresh flavor profile pairs well with citrusy and refreshing cocktails such as Margaritas, Palomas, and Tequila Sunrises.
Gold tequila, also known as reposado or añejo, adds depth and complexity to cocktails with its smooth, mellow flavors of caramel, vanilla, and oak. It is often used in cocktails where a richer and more nuanced flavor is desired, such as Old Fashioneds, Tequila Old Fashioneds, and Tequila Manhattans.
Ultimately, the choice between gold and silver tequila for cocktails comes down to personal taste and the desired flavor profile for the drink.
Do Gold and Silver tequilas taste significantly different?
Yes, gold and silver tequilas taste significantly different due to their aging processes and flavor profiles:
Silver Tequila (Blanco or Plata): Silver tequila is bottled shortly after distillation and does not undergo any aging process in oak barrels. It typically has a crisp, fresh flavor profile with notes of agave, citrus, and pepper. Silver tequila is known for its purity of flavor and clean finish.
Gold Tequila (Reposado or Añejo): Gold tequila is aged in oak barrels for a short period, giving it a golden hue and imparting flavors of caramel, vanilla, and oak. It has a smoother and more mellow taste compared to silver tequila, with added complexity and depth from the aging process.
The choice between gold and silver tequila depends on personal preference and the desired flavor profile for the drink.
Key Takeaways
Jose Cuervo Silver features a more agave-forward flavor profile.
On the other hand, Jose Cuervo Gold has amazing amber to caramel-like color with rich vanilla and caramel-tasting notes.
Silver tequila is cheaper than gold tequila because gold tequila undergoes aging in oak barrels for a certain time.
If you want to consume tequila in shots, better get the Jose Cuervo gold but if you want a tequila that blends well with other mixers, go for Jose Cuervo Silver.
References:
