What Exactly is Cristalino Tequila?

Cristalino tequila is an exceptionally unique and high-end variation of the beloved spirit. It combines the smoothness of aged tequila with the crystal-clear appearance of a blanco. But what sets cristalino apart?

Long cherished in Mexico for its smooth and refined attributes, cristalino is just starting to earn a permanent spot on the shelf elsewhere. Whether you’re a seasoned tequila aficionado or new to the spirit, understanding cristalino tequila will enhance the future of your tequila journey.

How is Cristalino Tequila Made?

Cristalino tequila is a unique spirit, known for its harmonious and refined drinking experience. While it usually has a clear and colorless appearance, it retains the complex flavors and aromas associated with aged tequila. Let’s dive into the process of making cristalino, which sets it apart from other tequilas.

After harvesting and cooking the agave, the juice is extracted and fermented. Once fermentation is complete, the tequila is distilled to concentrate the alcohol. The liquid is then aged in oak barrels—the process that turns silver tequila into aged tequilas like reposado or añejo.

After the aging process, it is filtered through charcoal to create a smoother and more sophisticated spirit—and this process is what distinguishes cristalino tequila from other types. The charcoal also removes the naturally occurring color picked up from aging in barrels, creating a liquid that is distinctly clear. The resulting taste is a unique coexistence of both familiar and new; cristalino retains the essence of aging while delivering on both smoothness and elegance.

What is the Difference Between Cristalino and Añejo?

One of the key differences between cristalino tequila and other types is its appearance.  While silver tequila is clear and unaged, and reposado and añejo tequilas have a golden hue from aging in oak barrels, cristalino tequila is oftentimes completely transparent.

Taste is also a category where cristalino differs vastly from other tequilas. Although it has some tasting notes in common with añejo, it has a much lighter mouthfeel and intriguing taste. Let’s dive deeper into the flavor profile.

What Does Cristalino Tequila Taste Like?

Starting with the tasting notes, cristalino tequila offers a unique balance of smoothness and complexity. With its aging process and filtration, it retains the rich, agave-forward flavors typically found in tequila, while also showcasing a velvety texture and subtle hints of oak. The result is a spirit that is both approachable for newcomers and intriguing for seasoned tequila enthusiasts.

When it comes to aromas, cristalino tequila boasts a captivating bouquet. You can expect to encounter notes of citrus, tropical fruits and vanilla, which are beautifully intertwined with the signature agave essence. These fragrant aromas add another layer of enjoyment to the overall tasting experience.

Introducing PATRÓN CRISTALINO

Now that we’ve talked about what cristalino tequila is, it’s time to introduce the perfect blend of authentic Mexican craftsmanship and vibrant luxury: PATRÓN CRISTALINO.

PATRÓN CRISTALINO begins with the finest base: the exquisite PATRÓN Añejo. Handcrafted from the finest 100% Weber Blue Agave, PATRÓN Añejo is carefully distilled in small batches at Hacienda PATRÓN in Jalisco, Mexico, maturing in four different casks for 12 to 15 months and blended for a sweeter profile with big, woody notes without overpowering the baked agave flavors that are uniquely PATRÓN.

Legendary Master Distiller David Rodriguez and his talented team of distilling artisans then filter the aged PATRÓN Añejo using wood charcoal to strike a harmonious balance of old and new—a cristalino that is clear and crisp, yet retains the complexity of barrel aging.

Pick up a bottle of PATRÓN CRISTALINO to experience a tequila that is unparalleled in smoothness and embodies craftsmanship. It’s perfect for sipping on the rocks, enjoying with soda or for giving classic cocktails a modern twist, like in the PATRÓN CRISTALINO Margarita. Enjoy it with a toast to cherished traditions, while making memories that feel undeniably new.