When you navigate the world of tequilas or discuss things about the best tasting tequilas, you will most likely come across gold and silver tequilas. In fact, if you have ever been to the scenic beaches of Mexico during your vacation, you might have even tasted them. So, what do these tequila names imply? Do they contain real gold and silver in them? Definitely not!
The names “gold tequila” and “silver tequila” are used to differentiate between the brown tequila from clear tequila. Quite simple! When there are two liquors of the same category but with different appearance or properties, it is common for people to have discussion on which one tastes the best.
If you are new to these metallic names of tequila and haven’t tasted them yet, this post can be very helpful for you to learn the about these tequila types. Once you will finish reading it, you can easily tell the difference between gold and silver tequila apart from their appearance.
Silver Tequila
Silver tequila is often called blanco or white tequila. As the name implies, it is clear and transparent in appearance and can be easily found in almost every bar or liquor store. In short, it is mainly characterized its transparent look, as in case of vodka.
This type of tequila is directly stored and bottled after completing distillation process. This means it is rarely aged. If it is, it is aged for very short duration. This tequila is usually distilled in stainless steel containers and could be either 100 percent agave or a mix.
Most people find its taste harsh and that’s because it isn’t aged like high-end tequilas that are aged for long to provide smooth sipping experience. However, it is cost-effective no matter if you are using it to mix with different liquor or you are buying it to drink directly.
Gold Tequila
Like silver tequila, gold tequila is also made from agave and distilled into liquor. But it is typically available in mix form rather than 100 percent pure agave. It is typically prepared by mixing silver tequila with top-shelf, aged tequila. However, sometimes, it is also 100 percent pure agave.
The golden color of this tequila is inherited due to one of two reasons. The first reason is that tequila is actually aged in barrels that imparted the tequila its brownish hue. And the second reason is that either caramel or coloring is added to produce the golden hue in the tequila.
Since it is a mix and usually includes caramel or other additives, it feels much smoother in taste. Therefore, it also makes a great choice to have more shots quickly.
Which is better for margarita – silver tequila or gold tequila?
In general, most people choose gold tequila for preparing margaritas. In fact, the sweet and smooth notes of gold tequila can really be experienced in a frozen margarita. But you are always free to choose a brand of silver tequila.
When it comes to choosing the best tasting tequila, it essentially depends on the taste of an individual. If you are looking for direct advice, we would say it is gold tequila as it is smoother in taste.