Kirkland Tequila Silver vs Patron: Which is Better? (2023)

For years, Kirkland Tequila Silver and Patron have dominated the tequila market. Kirkland is praised for its affordable price, while Patron is revered for its prestigious brand. But when it comes to taste and quality, which tequila takes the crown? Join us as we delve into the world of Kirkland Tequila Silver vs Patron, uncovering the nuances that set them apart.

A Tale of Origins and Distilleries

Kirkland Tequila Silver, the proprietary tequila brand of Costco, has an interesting history. Initially produced by the Fabrica de Tequilas Finos, the distillery responsible for Kirkland Signature shifted to Santa Lucia, S.A. de C.V. in 2019. On the other hand, Patron Tequila emerged in 1989 under the Patron Spirits Company. Today, Patron is synonymous with quality, boasting its distinctive beehive-shaped bottle.

Crafting Tequila: Traditional vs Modern

One major point of divergence between Kirkland and Patron lies in their production and distillation processes. Kirkland embraces a modern approach, utilizing high-pressure autoclaves and diffusers to cook the agave piñas. The tequila is then double distilled before resting in a steel tank prior to bottling. In contrast, Patron adheres to traditional processes. Their piñas are hand-chopped, baked in small brick ovens, and crushed using a two-ton volcanic stone wheel and roller mill. This meticulous craftsmanship contributes to the distinct flavors of Patron.

The Finest Raw Materials

Patron Silver is renowned for its use of high-quality raw ingredients, specifically ripe weber blue agave that has aged for roughly eight years. Skilled Jimadors meticulously strip the leaves with a sharp tool, Coa, to reveal the piña. On the other hand, Kirkland Tequila Silver is crafted using 100% blue agave, with undisclosed age.

Ownership and Distilleries

Patron Silver tequila is made and distilled in Siete Leguas in Jalisco, Mexico. Formerly owned by John Paul DeJoria, who went from being homeless to a billionaire, Patron sold 70% of its stake to Bacardi Limited in 2018 for a staggering $5.1 billion. In contrast, Costco’s signature Kirkland brand is owned by the renowned membership warehouse club, with its tequila currently distilled in Corporate Distillery Santa Lucia (NOM 1173).

The Tasting Experience

Now, let’s explore the tasting notes and profiles of Kirkland Tequila Silver and Patron Silver. Kirkland Tequila Silver offers fruity notes with a subtle cooked agave taste, accompanied by sweet, earthy, black pepper, and vegetative undertones. On the other hand, Patron Silver boasts a dry, smooth, and savory palate with hints of roasted agave, white pepper, anise, and vanilla. Both tequilas exhibit crystal clear hues and have medium to long finishes, each with its own unique flavor journey.

Price and Value

When it comes to price, Kirkland Tequila Silver is a winner in terms of affordability. A 1.75 L bottle of Kirkland Tequila Silver is priced at around $24.99 at Total Wine. In contrast, a 750 ml bottle of Patron Silver costs approximately $51.99 on Drizly online. Although Patron comes with a higher price tag, its traditional flavor profile and exceptional quality make it a worthwhile investment for tequila aficionados.

The Verdict: Patron Takes the Crown

After careful consideration, blind tastings, and thorough research, it is evident that Patron outshines Kirkland Tequila Silver in terms of taste and overall experience. While Kirkland offers excellent value for money and is suitable for mixing in cocktails, Patron’s traditional craftsmanship and refined flavor profile make it the ultimate choice for sipping and savoring.

In conclusion, if you are looking for a tequila that embodies excellence, Patron Silver is the way to go. Cheers to the world of tequila, where quality and craftsmanship reign supreme!

Reference:

[1] CNBC: Patron Selling to Bacardi: John Paul DeJoria Gives Advice for Success