Last Updated on: 17th May 2024, 10:47 pm
J Highland
J Highland is a certified sommelier with 30 years in the liquor industry, owning a pub, a liquor store, and moonlighting as an agave spirits distiller.
Experience the rich flavors of handcrafted small-batch Tequilas with my top 10 list created with the assistance of Tequila expert Neil Coleman and customer feedback.
Written by: J Highland
About the Best Small Batch Tequilas
- The article discusses select, exclusive small-batch tequilas, not widely available in large retail stores.
- Emphasizes authenticity, made without additives or chemicals.
- Presents a variety of small-batch tequilas, each with unique flavor profiles and alcohol content.
- Includes Cascahuin, Fuenteseca, Cazcanes, Villa Lobos Blanco, and several others.
- Highlights the individual characteristics of each tequila, such as nose, and palate, and how best to enjoy them.
- Selection Criteria: Running a pub and liquor store provides me ample access to various spirits, in addition, I moonlight as an agave spirits distiller. I assess them using customer feedback, expert opinions from Neil Coleman, and online research, focusing on aroma, taste, finish, and value.
Quick Look at the Best Small Batch Tequilas
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
Cascahuin Blanco: Agave Forward Delight
Cascahuin Blanco shines with its intense agave flavor, a testament to the traditional 2-ton tahona stone used in its production, a hallmark of small-batch tequilas.
Free of additives, it boasts a rich aroma of agave alongside citrus peels. The taste is buttery and warming, with notes of agave, earth, orange, and a hint of cinnamon. The finish lingers with natural agave sweetness and a touch of black pepper, states tequila expert Neil Coleman.
Fuenteseca Cosecha 2018: A Savory Tequila Journey
Fuenteseca Cosecha 2018 takes you on a unique flavor adventure.
Earthy aromas of cooked agave mingle with brine and black pepper. The full-bodied taste explodes with bold agave, balanced by minerals and hints of olive. A surprising twist comes from fruity notes of mango and papaya. The finish is long and smooth despite its strength, offering lingering vanilla and black pepper for a truly elevated experience among small-scale tequila.
Cazcanes: A Bold & Rich Tequila
Packing a powerful 100-proof punch, Cazcanes delivers an intense experience compared to standard tequilas.
The aroma starts unexpected with clove and cinnamon, then transitions to rich agave and subtle minerals. The velvety palate showcases strong agave flavors alongside vegetal asparagus, hints of licorice, and a black pepper kick. The finish lingers with pleasant warmth, showcasing its high proof while remaining smooth.
This bold expression positions Cazcanes among the top Silver Tequilas.
Villa Lobos Blanco: Smooth Agave Delight
Villa Lobos Blanco boasts a subtle aroma of roasted agave, citrus, and minerals, with a touch of alcohol. The viscous palate pampers with cooked agave sweetness, a hint of salt, and whispers of orange, lime, and black pepper. The finish warms gently, leaving a lingering peppery and mineral aftertaste.
This Blanco delivers a consistently authentic agave experience, free from harshness despite a touch of warmth. A well-rounded and affordable choice, Villa Lobos Blanco is a must-try for tequila lovers seeking a genuine small-batch and handcrafted expression.
Mijenta Blanco: Buttery Agave with a Smooth Finish
Mijenta Blanco's unique nose starts with surprising salted butter, transitioning to roasted agave and bright floral notes. The creamy texture complements the flavor profile, offering sweet agave, orange, lime, and a subtle echo of the butter. The long finish surprises with anise and a satisfying warmth.
Mijenta Blanco prioritizes additive-free production, sustainability, and community, making it a must-try for limited production tequila enthusiasts.
Fortaleza Still Strength: Blanco on Steroids
Fortaleza Still Strength takes their classic Blanco Tequila and cranks it up to 46% ABV.
The aroma intensifies, offering cooked agave alongside orange peel, olive, and a whisper of alcohol. Despite the higher proof, the body is surprisingly smooth and warm, free of harshness. The taste explodes with pure agave sweetness, ripe fruit, and hints of olive and salt. The finish lingers with a pleasant alcohol warmth, black pepper, and a touch of salted caramel, making it a bolder and creamier choice for artisanal tequila lovers.
G4 Blanco: A Savory Agave Sipper
G4 Blanco stands out in my collection for its smooth, rich agave character.
The aroma pops with roasted agave, earthy notes, hints of grass, and a touch of black pepper. The palate is impressive, full-bodied and oily, showcasing natural blue agave sweetness balanced by earthiness and a hint of salt. Citrus and grassy notes add complexity, making for a well-rounded experience. The finish is long and warm with hints of cinnamon and black pepper, leaving a dry sensation.
G4 Blanco is a fantastic small-lot tequila for under $50, delivering an exceptional value.
Ocho Plata: A Smooth Tequila Journey
Ocho Plata shines with its exceptional smoothness, perfect for those seeking an easy-drinking, limited edition tequila.
The aroma entices with prominent agave and bursts of fresh, fruity pineapple, grapefruit, and lime. The palate is smooth and velvety, showcasing cooked agave sweetness, ripe fruit, and subtle hints of cinnamon, anise, and earthiness. The finish lingers pleasantly with agave sweetness and a touch of black pepper.
Ocho Plata offers a delightful journey from nose to sip, making it a worthy addition to your tequila collection.
Gran Dovejo Blanco: A Funky and Flavorful Tequila
Gran Dovejo Blanco delivers a unique experience right from the nose. Earthy aromas mingle with funky concrete, agave, and a touch of asparagus. The taste is equally complex, showcasing a pronounced minerality balanced by agave sweetness and saltiness. Hints of cinnamon, black pepper, and pineapple add surprising bursts of flavor. The finish is long and satisfying, with a pleasant bite, lingering saltiness, and a touch of cinnamon.
Despite its high proof, Gran Dovejo Blanco remains smooth and enjoyable, leaving you wanting another sip. Priced at around $50, this small-batch, additive-free tequila offers excellent value and a truly unique flavor profile.
Caballito Cerrero: A Tequila's Cousin with Smoky Charm
While not technically a Tequila due to its espadin agave base, Caballito Cerrero offers a fascinating bridge between the two spirits. The aroma entices with agave, subtle smoke, grassy notes, lime, and hints of ripe fruit. The taste continues the theme, showcasing roasted agave alongside a rich medley of mango, lime, and melon, all wrapped in a delicate smokiness.
The finish is warm and satisfying. Caballito Cerrero delivers a unique and intriguing experience, blending characteristics of both Tequila and Mezcal. It's a perfect choice for Tequila enthusiasts curious to explore the smoky world of Mezcal in limited release.
Arette Fuerte Artesanal: A Bold Agave Journey
Arette Fuerte Artesanal leads with a powerful agave aroma, accented by whispers of brine and alcohol. The palate is surprisingly viscous, creating a satisfying mouthfeel with a well-balanced warmth. Flavors explode with cooked agave, black pepper, asparagus, and hints of baking spice. The finish lingers pleasantly, showcasing a touch of cinnamon and a gentle warmth.
Arette stays true to its reputation, offering a perfect harmony of heat and a smooth, oily texture. This is a spirited sip for those seeking a rich and bold agave experience among small scale tequila.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Defines a Small-Batch Tequila?
- Small-Batch Definition: Tequilas produced in limited quantities, typically ranging from 10 to 200 barrels, emphasizing authenticity and traditional production methods.
What Sets them Apart from Mass-Produced Ones?
- Unique Characteristics: Each small-batch tequila has a distinct flavor profile, crafted without additives or chemicals, offering an authentic and exclusive tequila experience.
How Do They Differ in Flavor Profiles?
- Diverse Flavors: Small-batch tequilas showcase a variety of unique tastes, from intense agave flavors to balanced notes of vanilla, caramel, oak, and spices.
Where Can One Purchase This Type of Tequila?
- Buying Guide: These tequilas are available on specialty websites like OldTownTequila.com, Totalwine.com, and Drizly.com, offering a range of options for home delivery.
Why Choose Small-Batch Tequila Over Regular Brands?
- Advantages: Small-batch tequilas provide a richer and more genuine tequila experience, ideal for those seeking premium quality and distinct flavor profiles.
Can They Be Used in Cocktails?
- Cocktail Suitability: While primarily enjoyed neat or on the rocks, their unique flavor profiles also make small-batch tequilas great for crafting high-quality, distinctive cocktails.
Are Small-Batch Tequilas More Expensive?
- Price Consideration: Generally, small-batch tequilas are priced higher due to their limited production, quality of ingredients, and intricate crafting process.
What is the Best Way to Drink This Type of Tequila?
- Enjoyment Tips: Best savored slowly to appreciate their complexity and depth, either neat or with minimal dilution, to fully experience their unique characteristics.
How Do They Contribute to Sustainability?
- Sustainability Aspect: Many small-batch tequilas emphasize eco-friendly practices and community support, aligning with sustainable and responsible production values.