I often find myself torn between two titans of the premium tequila blanco category: Patron and Don Julio… but which one is the best buy?
Both hailing from the heart of Jalisco, Mexico, these exceptional tequilas are crafted using traditional, small-batch methods using the finest Blue Webber agave.
Price-wise, both Patron and Don Julio tequilas are top-shelf offerings, and you can expect to pick up a 70cl bottle of their blanco (silver) tequila for around £45 in the UK and $50 in the USA.
Ultimately, it all comes down to taste and how well these incredible blanco tequilas work as a cocktail base for all you budding mixologists.
Patron Blanco vs Don Julio Blanco
Here is my take on the Patron Blanco vs Don Julio Blanco debate, where I delve into flavour profile, overall quality, and best serve.
1. Patrón Silver Tequila
Overview
- Distiller: Patrón Spirits Company
- ABV: 40% (80 Proof)
- Country: Mexico
- Colour: Clear
Production Process
Patrón Blanco tequila is made using hand-selected Blue Weber agave, slowly baked in traditional brick ovens, crushed by a two-ton volcanic stone Tahona wheel, and distilled in small batches.
On the Nose
Citrus fruits, fresh agave, vegetal, and light pepper.
On the Palate
I find it initially semi-dry on the palate, but it transitions into a flavorful middle of roasted agave, pepper, anise, and vanilla. A nice, sweet, agave kick on the finish.
Best Served
Ideal as a shot with salt and lime or as a base for classic tequila cocktails like a Margarita, Paloma, or Tequila Sour.
Pricing & Info
You can check the latest pricing, product information, and order online.
2. Don Julio Tequila Blanco
Overview
- Distiller: Don Julio Tequila
- ABV: 40% (80 Proof)
- Country: Mexico
- Colour: Clear
Production Process
Don Julio Blanco is crafted from hand-picked, mature blue agave plants. The agave is cooked in traditional masonry ovens and distilled in small batches to maintain quality and consistency.
On the Nose
Crisp agave aromas blended with hints of citrus and a touch of wild herbs.
On the Palate
The flavour is vibrant, led by fresh agave, with discreet citrus undertones and a hint of black pepper. The finish is predominantly crisp, earthy agave with a slight herbal edge.
Best Served
I feel that it can be sipped neat or in a premium cocktail, such as a Don Julio Blanco fueled Tequila Sunrise, El Diablo, Margarita, or a simple Tequila & Tonic.
Pricing & Info
You can check the latest pricing, product information, and order online.
Andrew’s Top Pick
Patrón Blanco Tequila
My top pick of these two titans is Patrón Blanco because it’s smooth, semi-sweet, and has a nice touch of pepper. I love it in a classic Margarita.
The History Behind Each Brand
Originating from the blue agave plant in Jalisco, Mexico, the history of tequila dates back centuries, rooted in the ancient traditions of the Aztec civilisation. This section explores two major players celebrated for producing premium agave firewater.
Patrón
The new kid in town, Patron was founded in 1989 by John Paul DeJoria and Martin Crowley. The brand quickly gained a reputation for producing high-quality tequila using traditional methods.
Patron’s distillery, Hacienda Patron, is located in Jalisco, Mexico, where they use 100% Blue Weber agave. The agave is hand-selected, baked in brick ovens, and crushed by a volcanic stone Tahona wheel.
Patron offers a diverse range of tequila offerings, including Patron Blanco, Reposado, and Añejo, and not forgetting Patrón XO Cafe Tequila for all you coffee lovers.
Don Julio
And now the old gun, Don Julio Tequila, was established in 1942 by Don Julio González-Frausto Estrada.
Driven by a passion for crafting exceptional tequila, Don Julio revolutionised the industry by planting agave farther apart, allowing each plant more room to grow and develop more flavour.
Located in the highlands of Jalisco, Mexico, Don Julio’s distillery employs traditional methods and rigorous quality control to produce its premium tequilas.
The brand’s portfolio includes Don Julio Blanco, Reposado, and Añejo, plus the unique tasting experience of Don Julio 70 Cristalino.
Conclusion
In this showdown between Patron Blanco and Don Julio Blanco, the choice ultimately depends on personal preference. For me, it’s Patron Blanco, as it works so well in a classic Margarita.
Patron Blanco offers a slightly sweeter, smoother profile with a hint of vanilla, while Don Julio Blanco delivers a crisp, clean taste with a touch of herbal complexity.
Both are excellent choices for shots, sipping or mixing, ensuring a top-tier tequila experience regardless of your selection.
Whether you favour the nuanced smoothness of Patron or the bright clarity of Don Julio, these Blancos are both high-end choices.
Also Read: 10 Best Tequila Cocktails for your Blanco or Reposado
Further Reading
Below are some additional articles from The Drinks Geek blog. We write articles on several fascinating areas of drinks, including different brands, drink types, cocktail recipes and more.
