Tequila Brands And Types

Tequila has a global following, and with an abundance of exceptional brands available, it’s easy to see why.

From timeless classics like Jose Cuervo to celebrity-endorsed labels like Casamigos, founded by George Clooney and Rande Gerber, there’s a tequila for every palate. These renowned tequilas come in a range of styles, including Blanco, Reposado, and Anejo.

Whether you prefer something ultra-smooth or with a bit of a bite, there’s a tequila brand out there to satisfy any preference.

Most Popular Tequila Brands

The tequila market offers a wealth of choices, making it easy to feel overwhelmed. Here’s a list of 10 most popular tequila brands to help guide your selection.

Jose Cuervo

Established in 1795 by Don Jose Antonio de Cuervo, this tequila label has a long history. Known for its easy-on-the-pocket pricing and smooth profile, it’s a surefire hit at any gathering.

Patron

Often dubbed the “King of Tequilas,” Patron is celebrated for its meticulous production process.

Ideal for leisurely sips on a warm summer evening with friends or for mixing into cocktails, Patron is best fit for any occasion.

Sauza

Founded in 1873 by Don Cenobio Sauza, this esteemed brand offers a range of both silver and gold tequilas, as well as some top shelf options.

It’s an excellent pick for those wanting to explore something a bit different.

Cazadores

Sourced from the highlands of Jalisco, Mexico, Cazadores is recognized for its distinctive flavor and aroma.

Its smooth taste makes it a hit, whether you’re sipping it neat or using it in cocktails.

El Jimador

Another standout Mexican brand, El Jimador was created by Jose Cuervo and has recently gained popularity among those seeking a tequila with traditional flair and a commendable taste profile.

1800

Originating in the late 18th century, this brand is acclaimed for its ultra-smooth varieties and flavor options.

From traditional silver to blue agave variants, there’s something here for everyone.

Herradura

Operating since 1870, Herradura consistently produces top-notch tequilas.

Particularly popular are its Reposado and Anejo labels for their smoothness and a hint of sweetness.

Don Julio

Named after its founder, Don Julio Gonzalez-Frausto Estrada, this brand has garnered a following among both margarita makers and tequila connoisseurs.

Known for its rich and intricate flavors, it’s an ideal way to end your night.

Corralejo

Established in 1967, Corralejo is renowned for its bold and aromatic profile.

It attracts enthusiasts who appreciate a tequila with some bite yet abundant flavor.

Casamigos

Co-created by George Clooney and Rande Gerber, Casamigos has gained popularity for its light, smooth taste.

Perfect for both sipping and mixing with cocktails, it’s a crowd-pleaser.

Espolòn

Produced in Jalisco’s Highlands, Espolòn tequilas feature the notes of citrus, pepper, and oak.

Their range includes everything from blanco to reposado tequilas and even tequila-infused liqueurs like tequila peach.

Fortaleza

Using traditional methods dating back to 1922 and aged in French oak barrels, Fortaleza offers tequilas from blanco to añejo, as well as cream liqueurs in flavors such as coffee, cinnamon, or coconut.

Milagro

Crafted from 100% blue agave, Milagro tequilas boast notes of pepper, citrus, and caramel.

They offer a variety of options, including blanco to añejo tequilas, and flavored tequilas like reposado infused with tropical fruit.

Whether you’re in the market for a well-known brand or something more off the beaten path, this diverse selection of tequilas caters to all tastes.

Top Shelf Tequila Brands

In the world of luxury tequilas, the options are as diverse as they are delectable.

Whether you’re after a particular flavor bouquet or a striking bottle design, this premium range offers something for every connoisseur.

From the triple-distilled elegance of Tequila Ley .925 to the rich smokiness of Mezcal Unión Gracia, these elite tequilas promise an exquisite experience for your palate.

We’ve curated a selection of the most expensive tequila brands, each accompanied by a concise description, enabling you to discern which of these premium tequila brands aligns with your tastes.

Here’s a glimpse into these top shelf tequilas:

Tequila Ley .925

A top-tier tequila distinguished by its Triple Distillation process, Ley .925 offers a smooth and sweet profile. Its visually captivating bottle further justifies its position among the world’s priciest tequilas.

Clase Azul Ultra

Sourced from decade-old agave, Clase Azul Ultra delivers a potent, smoky essence.

Presented in an intricately designed ceramic decanter, it sets itself apart from other expensive tequilas.

Don Julio 1942 Gran Reserva

An opulent offering from Don Julio, this tequila undergoes aging for at least 30 months, resulting in a complex blend of flavors such as sweet oak, caramel, coconut, vanilla, and spices notes which makes it one of the most expensive tequilas in the world.

Tequila Don Fulano Imperial

Hailing from Mexico’s most historic family-run distillery, Don Fulano Imperial is crafted exclusively from 100% blue agave.

It boasts a balanced profile of sweetness, spiciness, and notes of pepper and oak. Its deluxe box packaging also makes it an ideal gift.

Mezcal Unión Gracia

Originating from Mexico, this mezcal features wild Espadin agave and maturation in French oak.

Its robust smoky flavour, accented with a touch of sweetness, places it among the market’s most expensive mezcals.

Clase Azul Añejo

This elite tequila utilizes mature agave, meticulously fermented and distilled.

With flavor hints of caramel, cocoa, vanilla, pepper, and wood, it differentiates itself from its high-end competitors.

Its hand-crafted ceramic decanter adds an extra touch of luxury.

Tequila Pasion Azteca Ultra Premium

This ultra-premium selection utilizes matured agave and aging in white oak barrels. It offers a silky-smooth profile laced with cinnamon, spices, vanilla, and fruity notes. Its standout bottle design further elevates its status among high-end tequilas.

In summary, these seven most expensive tequila brands offer an unparalleled experience for your taste buds.

Whether you’re looking to gift someone or indulge yourself, any of these premium options will assuredly offer an unforgettable experience.

Cheap Tequila Options

If you’re in the market for affordable tequila that doesn’t compromise on taste, you’re in the right place.

From the smooth, woody flavor of Olmeca Altos to the spicy undertones of Don Julio Blanco, these budget-friendly options offer fantastic value.

Here are some economical tequilas you should consider:

Olmeca Altos Tequila

Ideal for those wanting to start the party without draining their wallet, Olmeca Altos is impressively smooth and boasts woody and citrus notes.

Cabrito Reposado Tequila

For those seeking affordability without sacrificing flavor, Cabrito Reposado offers caramel notes tinged with hints of pepper and oak.

Don Julio Blanco Tequila

A recognizable yet budget-friendly brand, Don Julio Blanco impresses with its balanced flavors of agave sweetness and subtle spiciness.

Sauza Gold Tequila

Sauza Gold is an excellent pick for those seeking value without feeling shortchanged. Its light, sweet profile makes it a versatile choice for cocktails or neat sipping.

El Jimador Reposado Tequila

A budget-friendly option, El Jimador Reposado provides a delightful palette of flavors due to its two-month oak aging, featuring notes of caramel and vanilla.

Jose Cuervo Especial Tequila

Rounding out our list, Jose Cuervo Especial offers a sugary aroma and flavor, perfect for crafting margaritas or enjoying straight up. Plus, its competitive price point means you can stock up for any festivity.

So there you have it—our recommendations for budget-friendly tequila options. Whether you intend to mix up some cocktails or savor a neat glass, these economical choices won’t disappoint. Feel free to explore and enjoy!

Mexican Tequila Brands

Iconic Tequila Brands from Mexico

Tequila, Mexico’s signature beverage, owes its unique flavor profiles to the country’s abundant agave plants.

For generations, Mexican mezcaleros have been expertly cultivating these plants to create a diverse array of tequilas, each with its own distinct flavour profile.

From velvety tequilas designed for leisurely sipping to robust mezcals perfect for mixing into your favroite cocktails, the Mexican tequila landscape offers a myriad of options. Enjoy these spirits neat, or as the part of a Margarita, it brings a dash of Latin flair to any gatherings.

Here’s a rundown of the top 10 tequila brands hailing from Mexico:

Patrón

Patrón remains a hallmark of quality Mexican agave and is the quintessential addition to any festive occasion. Its creamy palate and mellow finish make it a versatile choice, either for sipping or for mixing in cocktails.

Cazadores

Made exclusively from blue Weber agave, Cazadores boasts an earthy and herbal profile with a pronounced spice kick, making it a favorite for crafting Margaritas, Palomas, and other beloved cocktails.

Don Julio

With over seven decades of expertise, Don Julio offers superior tequilas crafted from select highland agaves grown in Mexico’s Jalisco region, presenting unique flavors not found in other spirits.

1800

Produced from 100% blue Weber agave and briefly aged in white oak barrels, 1800 yields a full-bodied spirit that suits both sipping and cocktail mixing.

El Jimador

Named in honor of the agave farmers in Mexico, El Jimador employs ancestral techniques passed down among generations of mezcaleros.

The resulting spirit is a harmonious blend of sweetness, making it a go-to choice for Margaritas and other iconic drinks.

Sauza

Matured between 8-12 months in American oak barrels, this premium tequila offers a palate rich in pepper, spice, and citrus—ideal components for Margaritas and other traditional Mexican drinks.

Herradura

This ultra-premium offering uses 100% blue agave, slow-roasted in classic ovens, and aged up to 45 days in American oak barrels. It delivers a gentle, sweet spirit that is ideal either for sipping or blending into cocktails.

Gran Centenario

As one of Mexico’s most established mezcal producers, Gran Centenario ages its tequilas for up to 24 months in French oak barrels. This lends additional layers of sweetness and complexity to the already refined spirit.

Tequila Corzo

Aged for 12-18 months in Pinot Noir wooden casks, Corzo features subtle hints of spicy pepper, oak, and butterscotch, culminating in an exceptionally smooth drinking experience.

El Tesoro

Crafted in small batches from 100% blue agave and aged up to 40 days in white oak barrels, El Tesoro offers a singular flavor bouquet that includes citrus, vanilla, and smoky notes—making it perfect for either sipping or mixing into traditional Mexican cocktails.

Regardless of which Mexican tequila you opt for, it’s bound to add a spirited flourish to your celebration.

The Types Of Tequila Brands

Tequila brands can be sorted into various categories based on their aging process. The primary classifications of tequila are:

1. Blanco (also called white or silver): Typically bottled right after distillation or aged for under two months in stainless steel containers, Blanco tequila is colorless with a clean, spicy taste.

2. Joven (also known as gold): A mix of Blanco tequila and a small amount of aged tequila, it’s often colored with caramel, yielding a sweeter, milder flavor.

3. Reposado: Aged for a minimum of two months but not exceeding a year in oak barrels, Reposado tequila has a light gold hue and offers a smoother, more intricate flavor than Blanco.

4. Añejo: Aged for at least a year but less than three in oak barrels, Añejo tequila boasts a dark amber color and a rich, smooth taste.

5. Beyond these four, there’s a fifth category: Extra Añejo or “ultra-aged tequila,” which is aged for at least three years in oak barrels, resulting in an incredibly smooth and intricate flavor profile.

Tequila Alcohol Conent:

Most tequilas feature an alcohol content around 40% ABV (80 proof), meaning each 1.5-ounce shot contains roughly 0.6 ounces of pure alcohol.

However, some “extra añejo” tequilas can reach up to 55% ABV (110 proof). Always consume alcohol responsibly, being mindful of its potency.

Best Tequilas for Shots:

Popular brands like Patrón, Jose Cuervo, and Casamigos are often chosen for shots. What makes the best shot tequila ultimately boils down to personal taste.

While some opt for high-end, smoother tequilas, others lean toward more economical choices. Experiment with different brands to find the one that suits your palate.

Big Tequila Bottle Brands

Whether you’re organizing a grand celebration or just want to ensure your bar is well-stocked, large tequila bottles are your go-to.

The Litro de Tequila, at one liter, comes in chic packaging and provides ample supply for a lively affair.

For those seeking something even grander, consider a Magnum bottle (1.75 liters) or go all out with a Jeroboam (3 liters) to keep the party going.

With these sizes, no guest will go thirsty.

What Is The Tequila Of The Month Club?

The Tequila of the Month Club is a subscription service offering an assortment of tequilas to explore every month.

Members receive three or more bottles along with educational material about each tequila.

The club ranges from budget-friendly to premium options, helping members broaden their tequila horizons.

Here Are 9 Popular Tequila Of The Month Subscriptions

1. Flaviar

2. Sip Tequila

3. San Francisco Tequila Shop

4. Taster’s Club

5. Mash & Grape

6. Maguey Melate

7. Spirited Gifts

8. Shots Box

9. Pour More

These subscription boxes are a fail-safe gift for tequila enthusiasts or those wanting to deepen their understanding of this unique spirit.

Offering everything from high-end añejo tequilas to exotic mezcals, these clubs have a wide range of selections.

Whether you’re a tequila connoisseur or looking to explore the diverse world of tequila brands, joining a Tequila of the Month Club is an excellent way to do so.

Regardless of your brand preference, there’s a tequila for everyone; all it takes is some exploration. Your taste buds will be grateful.

Remember … Drink Responsibly and Never Drink Alcohol and Drive.

Disclaimer: The above article contains information and discussions about alcohol. It is intended for readers who are of legal drinking age in their country of residence. The information provided in this article should not be considered as medical or professional advice. If you are concerned about your alcohol consumption or if you are experiencing any health problems, please consult with a qualified healthcare provider. The author and publisher of this article do not endorse excessive drinking and encourage responsible consumption of alcohol.