818 Blanco 100% Agave Tequila (700ml)

In May 2021, the famous model, Kendall Jenner announced the launch of her 818 Tequila range via an Instagram post. She became the latest celebrity to launch a spirits brand, joining the likes of George Clooney and Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson. Like most tequila brands, the range includes three variants; a Blanco, Reposado and a top-of-the-line Anejo, all bottled at 40%. They're produced in a traditional manner under contract at La Cofradia distillery in Jalisco, home to over sixty tequila labels. Jenner's foray has been polarising, both in terms of the liquid in the bottles and accusations that her wealth means she's diverting attention and resources from smaller producers who lack her pull. The tequila itself is produced from Blue Weber agaves harvested at peak maturity (seven years) then cooked in brick ovens for 40 hours, before being subjected to the tahona extraction method - a large stone wheel that crushes the agave. Taste-wise, the consensus is these are light, approachable styles that don't make heavy demands on drinker's palates.

Other reviews... “Rested in oak barrels for a fresh vanilla roundness,” an unusual step for a blanco — though this has apparently been filtered to remove any remaining color. Very sweet on the nose; the “vanilla roundness” is front and center, alongside pastry cream and some strawberry notes. The only the barest hint of agave here, a clear move to appease KUWTK fans who might be put off by a punchy, herbaceous blanco. The palate follows suit: Creamy, with lots of vanilla and more red berry notes. A tinge of earthy greenery on the finish is about as mild as could be. There’s nothing really wrong with it as it stands, but it doesn’t taste much like tequila. If you told me this was a vanilla-flavored vodka I would have believed you. - drinkhacker.com