Summer is officially here, and one of the first things I reach for behind the bar is tequila. Whether you like to sip a nice aged anejo neat or prefer your tequila crystal clear and frozen in a margarita while at the beach, its definitely the spirit of summer. With so many brands to choose from, every little gimmick counts and so you may have noticed advertisements for 1800 Tequila in the past featuring Soprano’s star Michael Imperioli. One of the coolest features of 1800 Tequila that was highlighted in its ad campaign was the bottle’s ability to pour a shot when turned upside down. In this case the top doubled as a shot glass. Though it definitely brought attention to the brand, the quality itself needs no introduction.
After years of being mixed with tropical flavors at bars and beaches around the world, the makers of 1800 Tequila thought it was time they took out the middle man for you. You didn’t think tequila would let rum and vodka have all the fun did you? 1800 Coconut Tequila is their first attempt at a flavor infused spirit and although the flavored tequila experiment hasn’t exactly taken off for Jose Cuervo, 1800 Tequila felt this was the right time and the right recipe to do so. 1800 Tequila is a 100% blue agave tequila bottled in Jalisco, Mexico. It is named after the year tequila was first aged in oak casks. 1800 Tequila is owned by the Beckmann Family, who also own Jose Cuervo, and it was originally sold and marketed as Cuervo 1800 Tequila. Here are the tasting notes and a recipe to try at home.
Appearance: Clear at first glance, but a bit of a pale yellow when held in the light.
Nose: Strong agave mixed with strong coconut notes that come off a bit artificial. Also notes of spice.
Palate: Smooth and medium bodied with sweet notes of coconut in the finish.
Rating: Very Good. 1800 is a quality tequila in itself and the addition of coconut in their tequila only makes this more fun. With coconut tequila you can add new complexities to your margarita, paloma, or any other tequila based cocktail you already enjoy. At a reasonable price (25.99), and a strong proof (70) this one might just be the next big thing this Summer.
Coconut Crusher
1 part 1800 Coconut
1 part pineapple juice
Combine ingredients in a shaker and strain into a rocks glass filled with ice
Recipe courtesy of 1800 Tequila. Photo courtesy of Intoxicology.net
