The main difference between gold and silver tequila is that gold tequila usually undergoes a long aging period, while silver tequila does not have a long aging period.
Gold and silver tequila are two types of popular tequila. Gold tequila is tequila that has a golden or brownish hue, while silver tequila has a silver/white color. They also have different tastes. This color and taste difference comes from their aging process.
Key Areas Covered
1. What is Gold Tequila
– Definition, Features
2. What is Silver Tequila
– Definition, Features
3. Difference Between Gold and Silver Tequila
– Comparison of Key Differences
Key Terms
Tequila, Gold Tequila, Silver Tequila
What is Gold Tequila
Gold tequila is tequila that has a golden or brownish hue. It is made from agave and distilled into liquor. But in most cases, it’s not 100 percent pure agave. The golden hue in gold tequila can come in two ways. One is by ageing in barrels, which gives it a dark color. The time spent in barrels can make the shades of color vary, and the longer it stays in the barrels, the darker the color becomes. Gold tequila that stays in barrels for a long time has high quality and is more expensive. In general, the aging period can be two months to a year. Some brands even age it for years.
The other way of giving a golden color to tequila is by adding caramel or coloring. Adding caramel or additives gives the tequila a smoother taste. But this type of tequila does not undergo a proper aging process. You can easily identify this type of tequila by checking the label. If the bottle doesn’t say 100% agave, check what the ingredients are, and you will note sugar and caramel coloring.
Gold tequila can often be used for shots. It has a smoother, slightly sweet taste and is not as harsh as fresh tequila. Due to this slight sweetness, many bartenders use gold tequila in margaritas to match its fruity flavors.
What is Silver Tequila
Silver tequila, also known as blanco or white tequila, is silver/white colored tequila. It is usually bottled directly after distillation and is rarely aged more than a few weeks. In fact, the maximum aging period is usually two months. It’s distilled in stainless steel, which prevents changing of color. This is what preserves the silver color of the tequila. In fact, people consider it as the purest form of tequila.
Moreover, silver tequila has a color different from gold tequila. It is strong and harsh. This is why people often use lime or lemon to neutralize its flavor in drinks. It’s also the best tequila for mixed drinks. When compared to gold tequila, silver tequila is a budget-friendly option.
Difference Between Gold and Silver Tequila
Definition
Gold tequila is tequila that has a golden or brownish hue, while silver tequila, also known as blanco or white tequila, is silver/white colored tequila.
Color
Gold tequila has a golden or brownish hue, while silver tequila has a white or silver hue.
Aging
Gold tequila (original ones) undergo long aging, but silver tequila does not undergo a long aging period.
Distilling
Moreover, gold tequila is usually aged in wooden barrels, whereas silver tequila is aged in stainless steel barrels.
Flavor
While gold tequila has a smoother, slightly sweet taste, silver tequila has a strong and harsh taste.
Price
Gold tequila, especially 100% pure agave tequila, is expensive. Silver tequila is less expensive than gold tequila.
Conclusion
The main difference between gold and silver tequila is their aging process. Gold tequila usually undergoes a long aging period, while silver tequila does not undergo a lot of aging. This aging gives different colors and tastes.
Reference:
1. “Understanding the Differences in Types of Tequila.” Casa Blanca Mexican Restaurant, Massachusetts, 15 Jan. 2014.
Image Courtesy:
1. “Santera Tequila” By Santera Tequila – Own work (CC BY-SA 4.0) via Commons Wikimedia
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