Last Updated on March 8, 2024 by Lydia Martin
Silver vs Gold Tequila: what’s the difference? Tequila is a special drink in Mexico and is equally loved as an alcoholic beverage worldwide. Gold and Silver Tequila are always present during parties and get-togethers. But which of the two is better in quality, taste, and flavor notes?
Let’s find out how these agave products are made and what sets them apart.
Silver vs Gold Tequila: A Deep Comparison
Silver tequila, also known as white tequila, Blanco tequila, or platinum tequila, is an alcoholic beverage distilled from the Agave plant’s extract. This type of tequila is bottled directly after being distilled and doesn’t mature. It is often distilled in stainless steel containers, which preserves the flavor of pure Agave.
On the other hand, Gold tequila, Joven tequila, or brown tequila is a liquor drink made from Agave. However, this tequila is aged, meaning it has matured in barrels for a long time.
It is more expensive than Silver because it undergoes more complex flavoring and aging processes. It’s considered a top-shelf spirit with a smoother finish, so the extra cost is worth it.
Gold tequila goes through an aging process for at least two months up to two years. Normally, it has a caramel color because of additives.
A Closer Look Into Silver Vs Gold Tequila
History
The history of tequila goes back to the time of the Aztecs. However, it was in the 16th century when they were properly introduced. The golden color of tequilas was already existent then. Silver Tequila appeared in 2004.
Aged tequilas, such as Reposado Tequila and Añejo Tequila, were launched in 2006. Extra Añejo Tequila then came out, and later in 2009, Gold Tequila or Joven was introduced to the public.
How It’s Made
After being distilled, Gold tequila is aged in barrels for a long period in part of its aging process. The higher the perceived quality and price of tequila, the longer it has been aged. Also, the aging procedure for this type of tequila contributes to its Golden and brown color.
On the contrary, Silver tequila can be bottled in as little as two months after the distillation [1] process or not aged at all. This signifies that the distiller does not age this tequila in wood barrels. Additionally, Blanco is often produced entirely with Blue Agave.
Ingredients
Mexico’s national drink is from ripe blue agave plants in their purest form. They rarely age these after fermentation and distillation [1]. Because of pure blue agave spirit, it has a harsh taste as it goes down the throat.
Silver Tequila, also known as White Tequila, Blanco Tequila, or Platinum Tequila, is made of the same ingredients. Simply fermented piña in its pure form. On the other hand, Gold contains other spirits or additives to achieve the necessary coloring.
Read: Kirkland Tequila Compared To Other Brands
Color
The difference between Gold and Silver Tequila in color varies depending on how long they are aged. Silver Tequila is bottled right away, almost after distillation. These are clear since they do not pass through any flavoring processes.
Gold tequila, on the other hand, has a certain golden hue. The wooden barrels influence the caramel appearance of the liquor. Caramel coloring is also added in some Joven tequila during the aging process.
Use
Gold and Silver Tequilas are both delicious drinks as they are. You can take them straight, just like how typical Mexicans drink their tequila. However, you can also enjoy them in mixed drinks while watching the beauty of scenic beaches.
Silver or Blanco is the best choice in Margaritas and other cocktails. Gold and Reposado tequila are also used for cooking. Reposado means rested. That is why you can use its tamed alcohol in some dishes.
Finished Product
Gold Tequila offers more of a smooth taste. Some may find Silver Tequila harsh since it is pure, but this is the authentic Mexican drink. Apart from that, this distilled alcoholic beverage sold in liquor stores does not cause severe hangovers.
As long as you consume 100% extra añejo, Blanco, and the other aged tequila variants that are not mixed, your are far from getting nauseous.
Price
Aged tequilas like Gold Tequila are more expensive than unaged ones. The most expensive type of tequila is the Extra Añejo tequila. Only small batches of this tequila are made for three years because of the aging and distilling.
Because Silver tequila does not undergo a comprehensive making process, it’s generally a budget-friendly liquor. Silver tequila is often used in mixed beverages, such as the Tequila Sunrise. Agave’s sharp and acidic taste does not overpower other spirits in cocktails, unlike aged tequila.
There are Gold Tequila brands that cost more. Their prices can range from around $12.99 to $54.99. On the other hand, Silver costs roughly $12.99 to $35.99 per 750ml bottle.
Taste & Flavor Notes
What does tequila taste like? Silver tequilas are the purest form of liquor from the blue agave plant. It may have a harsh taste as it goes down your throat, but the notes of fruitiness along with hints of pepper and spice.
Another difference between Gold vs Silver Tequila is their taste. Silver has a harsher savor, while Gold is smoother since it spent time to mellow down inside oak barrels. Gold is sweeter since additives are mixed as well as the other alcohol.
Agave
You can find the best agave [2] fruits in the highlands of Jalisco, Mexico. Mexicans do not consider any tequila Gold or Silver Tequila authentic unless the piña fruit is from the area. The same amount of agave is used in producing the two liquors.
Piña juice secreted is distilled inside stainless steel storage containers. Silver tequila can be consumed directly, such as in religious ceremonies. The difference between Gold vs Silver Tequila is that the piña juice is aged to produce the brown tequila with a smooth taste.
Also Read:
Alcohol By Volume Level
Gold and Silver tequila contains 80-100 proof or 40-50% ABV. Silver and Gold tequila is equally strong, but if you prefer to taste the presence of piña spirit, you should opt for Silver or White Tequila.
Tequila Gold is aged and is mostly mixed, and has gone through flavoring processes. Its making process and mixing process is longer, which tamed the flavor. Also, only small batches are made for this type of distilled tequila. But, how many shots of tequila will get you drunk?
FAQs
Is gold or silver tequila better for margaritas?
Silver tequila is better for margaritas than Gold tequila. The flavor of Gold tequila is already influenced by the barrel where they stored it for some time. It’s a close mix and sweeter such as Extra Anejo, compared to the raw savor of Silver.
Which is smoother, silver or gold tequila?
Gold tequila has a smoother taste compared to the harsh flavor of Silver Tequila. You can take it straight or take it as a shot with lime juice. The optimal choice of many tequila drinkers would be the aged tequila Reposado because of its taste.
Which tequila is better, silver or gold?
The preference between silver (blanco) and gold tequila is subjective. Silver tequila is typically unaged and has a crisp, pure agave flavor, while gold tequila often undergoes a brief aging process, acquiring a smoother taste with hints of caramel and vanilla. It ultimately depends on personal taste and the desired flavor profile for cocktails or sipping.
Does gold tequila taste better?
Gold tequila’s taste is different from silver, featuring a smoother profile due to its brief aging in barrels. The aging imparts subtle notes of caramel and vanilla, which some may find more appealing. Whether gold tequila tastes better is a matter of individual preference.
What’s the difference between gold and silver Cuervo tequila?
The difference lies in the aging process. Silver (blanco) Cuervo is unaged, offering a pure agave flavor. Gold Cuervo undergoes a short aging period, resulting in a smoother taste with additional notes from the barrels, such as caramel and oak.
Is yellow or silver tequila better?
The choice between yellow (gold) and silver tequila depends on personal preference. Silver tequila is often preferred for its pure agave flavor, while gold tequila offers a smoother taste with notes from the aging process.
What color tequila is smoothest?
Generally, aged tequilas like reposado (rested) and añejo (aged) are considered smoother due to their time spent in barrels. However, preferences vary, and some may find silver tequila’s pure agave flavor to be equally smooth.
Why is silver tequila better?
Silver tequila is favored for its unaged, crisp agave taste, making it a popular choice for cocktails where the pure agave flavor shines through. It is often preferred for its versatility in various drinks.
Which tequila is best for shots?
Both silver and gold tequilas can be enjoyed as shots, and the choice depends on personal preference. Some enjoy the clean and vibrant taste of silver tequila, while others appreciate the smoother profile of gold tequila for shots.
Is Jose Cuervo real tequila?
Yes, Jose Cuervo is a real tequila brand. It is one of the oldest and most well-known tequila producers, offering a range of tequila expressions, including silver and gold varieties.
Can you drink gold tequila straight?
Yes, gold tequila can be enjoyed straight. Its smoother taste, acquired through aging, makes it suitable for sipping. Some may prefer it over silver tequila for sipping or as a base for cocktails.
Is Jose Cuervo silver 100% agave?
Not all Jose Cuervo silver expressions are 100% agave. Some variations may be mixtos, meaning they contain a mix of agave and other sugars. It’s essential to check the label for specific product details.
Is Cuervo Gold 100% tequila?
Cuervo Gold is typically a mixto tequila, meaning it may contain a blend of agave and other sugars. It is advisable to check the product label for specific information on its composition.
Which tequila is best for margaritas?
Both silver and reposado tequilas are commonly used for margaritas. Silver tequila provides a bright and crisp agave flavor, while reposado offers a bit more complexity from its short aging process. The choice depends on personal taste preferences.
In Conclusion
Young drinkers would be searching for something smooth, flavorful, and easy to swallow, found in every bottle of Gold Tequila. They developed Gold Tequila to deliver that specific savor.
Tequila Silver is also not a bad choice, especially if you want a stronger taste of the piña fruit with no artificial colors added. It is even more affordable compared to Gold Tequila.
But in the end, the decision will always fall to the drinker. These spirits have been created and continually improved over the years. As long as this is consumed moderately, everybody can enjoy both.
References:
