Maybe you've seen them sitting right there at the checkout counter. Or maybe you're planning a wedding and realized that buying 100 full-sized bottles of 1942 is a great way to go broke before the honeymoon even starts. Either way, the don julio small bottle has become a weirdly iconic staple in the world of high-end spirits.
It’s kind of funny, honestly. Usually, those tiny 50ml "nip" bottles are associated with cheap vodka or something you'd find in a dusty airport terminal. But Don Julio changed the game. They took their most prestigious liquids—the stuff people usually save for major anniversaries—and shrunk them down into these tiny, elegant glass replicas.
And look, we’re not just talking about the basic silver stuff. You can find almost the entire lineup in miniature form now, including the legendary 1942. But if you're thinking about grabbing some, there are a few things you should know first because the pricing can be all over the place, and some sizes are way more "giftable" than others.
Why the Don Julio Small Bottle is More Than Just a "Mini"
Most people call them minis. Some call them shooters. But if you’re looking at a 50ml or 375ml bottle of Don Julio, you’re basically looking at a portable luxury experience.
The 50ml version is exactly one standard pour. It’s perfect for that moment when you want a top-shelf drink without committing to a $160 investment. These are massive for wedding favors or stocking stuffers. On the other hand, the 375ml (half-bottle) is the "Goldilocks" of the tequila world. It’s enough to share with a friend or two, it fits in a small bag, and it looks exactly like the big bottle—just slightly more adorable.
Breaking Down the Sizes and Varieties
- The 50ml Miniature: This is the most common "small bottle." You’ll see the Blanco, Reposado, and Añejo everywhere. In 2026, you're even seeing limited 1942 versions of these, especially with the FIFA World Cup editions popping up.
- The 375ml Half-Bottle: If you want to impress someone but don't want to drop $200 on a gift, this is your best friend. It’s literally half the size of a standard 750ml bottle.
- Tasting Packs: Don Julio often bundles three 50ml bottles (Blanco, Reposado, and Añejo) into a single box. It's a great way to figure out which one you actually like before you buy a gallon of it.
What You’ll Actually Pay (The Pricing Reality)
Let’s be real: buying small bottles is rarely the most "cost-effective" way to drink. You pay a premium for the glass and the convenience. Here’s a rough idea of what you’re looking at in 2026:
The standard Don Julio Blanco 50ml usually sits around $6.00 to $7.50. If you move up to the Reposado, expect to pay about a dollar more. The Añejo minis typically hover around $8.50.
But then there’s the 1942. A single 50ml bottle of 1942 can run you anywhere from $15 to $20. Some shops even charge more if it's a special edition. If you find a 10-pack of 1942 minis, you might see it for around $130 to $170. It sounds like a lot for a few ounces of liquid, but compared to the full bottle price, it’s a way more accessible entry point for a lot of people.
The 375ml bottles are where the value gets a little better. You can often find a Don Julio 1942 375ml for around $85 to $95. It’s enough for about 8 shots, which makes it perfect for a small birthday toast.
The 2026 Limited Editions: 1942 and the World Cup
If you’re a collector, the don julio small bottle market just got a lot more interesting. With the FIFA World Cup 2026 happening, Don Julio released a limited-edition 1942 bottle. They didn't just do the big ones; they released these incredibly cool 50ml minis with gold-inspired packaging and green accents.
These are already becoming hard to find. People aren't even drinking them; they’re just putting them on shelves as decor. If you see one at a liquor store for under $20, honestly, just grab it. The resale value on these tiny limited editions usually climbs pretty fast once the event actually starts.
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Creative Ways to Use Them (Besides Just Drinking)
There’s a reason these things fly off the shelves during wedding season. You can actually get these bottles laser-engraved. Imagine a 50ml bottle of 1942 that says "Groomsman" or "Happy 30th Birthday." It turns a $15 purchase into a keepsake.
I’ve also seen people use them as:
- High-end party favors: Much better than a bag of Jordan almonds.
- Tequila flights at home: Line up the Blanco, Reposado, and Añejo for a DIY tasting.
- The "Emergency Bottle": Fits in a suit pocket or a small purse for those weddings where the bar only serves "well" liquor.
Where to Find Them
Most big-box retailers like Total Wine or Binny’s keep these in stock, usually right near the registers or in a dedicated "minis" section. If you’re looking for the 375ml bottles, check the tequila aisle—they're often tucked between the standard sizes.
Online stores like Sip Whiskey or Keg N Bottle are usually the best bet for finding the bulk packs (like the 6-packs or 10-packs) which actually save you a few bucks. Just keep in mind that shipping liquid is heavy and expensive, so local is usually better unless you’re buying in bulk for an event.
A Quick Word on the "Cristalino" Minis
Don’t overlook the Don Julio 70. It’s an Añejo that’s been filtered to look clear like a Blanco. It’s one of the smoothest things they make. In 2026, the 50ml versions of these are becoming huge for "neat" sipping because they lack that harsh "burn" people associate with cheaper clear tequilas. They usually cost about $10 a pop.
Actionable Next Steps
If you're planning an event or just want to try the brand, here's how to handle it:
- Check the SKU: If you're buying 50ml bottles for a wedding, ask the manager for a "case price." Most places will give you a discount if you buy 10 or 20 at a time.
- Verify the 1942: Make sure you're getting the actual glass bottle minis. Some brands use plastic for their smalls, but Don Julio almost always uses glass for 1942, which is what gives it that premium feel.
- Look for the Tasting Pack: If it’s your first time, the 3-bottle tasting pack is almost always cheaper than buying three individual 50ml bottles separately.
- Secure World Cup Editions Early: If you're a soccer fan or a collector, these 2026 limited editions won't last through the summer. Get them now while they're still sitting at MSRP.