Best Tequilas for Shots of 2024

Last Updated on: 17th May 2024, 01:58 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.

Explore top Tequilas for shooting, selected with expert Neil Coleman's advice and customer feedback, offering smooth, quality experiences with authentic agave tastes and no chasers needed.

Written by: J Highland

Choosing the Best Tequila for Shots

Craving Smoothness?

• Don Abraham Blanco: Easy-drinking tequila with agave, vanilla, and orange notes.
• 1800 Silver: Budget-friendly option with a clean and sweet agave taste.
• Espolon Blanco: Affordable choice with a peppery kick and a touch of sweetness.
• 1800 Añejo Cristalino: Exceptionally smooth with sweetness from ex-Port wine cask aging.

Seeking a Spicy Kick?

• Ghost Tequila: Blanco tequila infused with ghost peppers for a balanced heat.

For the Tequila Veteran:

• Tapatio 110: Packs a punch at 110 proof with a warm agave taste and a spicy kick.

Looking for a Reposado Option?

• Tequileño Reposado: Affordable luxury with hints of vanilla and caramel from bourbon barrel aging.

Budget-Friendly Añejo?

• El Mayor Añejo: Smooth and sweet with notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak.

• Quick Note: 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 and online research.

A Quick Look at the Best Tequilas to Shoot

Prices are approximate and stated in USD:

Don Abraham Blanco: A Smooth Contender for Tequila Shots

When it comes to tequila shots, smoothness is key. Enter Don Abraham Blanco Tequila, a popular choice for its easy-drinking nature. It features a pleasant aroma of agave, vanilla, and a hint of orange.

The taste is well-balanced, blending agave sweetness with subtle vanilla and orange notes. A touch of pepper and mineral adds complexity without overpowering the palate. The finish is smooth and warming, with lingering hints of pepper and minerals.

"This Blanco tequila is known for its versatility. Whether you enjoy it neat or in a shot, Don Abraham Blanco delivers a satisfying experience.", mentions tequila expert Neil Coleman.

1800 Silver: Easy-Drinking Tequila for Shots and More

Looking for a smooth tequila for shots or cocktails? Consider 1800 Silver. Made from 100% Blue Weber agave, this budget-friendly option boasts a pleasant aroma of agave, citrus, and a hint of black pepper.

The taste is clean and sweet, featuring agave with subtle orange and peppery notes. While the finish is short, it leaves a touch of sweetness and pepper, making 1800 Silver a versatile tequila for various drinking styles.

Ghost Tequila: Spice Up Your Tequila Shot

Craving a fiery tequila shot? Look no further than Ghost Tequila. This Blanco tequila is infused with ghost peppers, known for their intense heat. But fear not, the spice is balanced! Ghost Tequila offers a unique experience.

The aroma blends agave and floral notes with a hint of pepper. The taste starts with a touch of orange, followed by agave and black pepper. The ghost pepper brings a pleasant kick that lingers on the warm finish. This tequila is perfect for those who enjoy a spicy adventure in their shot.

Tapatio 110: A Kick for Tequila Shot Veterans

Tequilane veterans seeking a powerful shot, look to Tapatio 110. This Blanco tequila packs a punch at 110 proof (55% ABV) compared to the standard 80 proof. Surprisingly, it stays smooth, making it ideal for bold cocktails or fiery shots.

The aroma starts with a noticeable alcohol note, followed by cooked agave, black pepper, and a hint of grapefruit. The taste explodes with warm blue agave sweetness, balanced by citrusy notes of lime and orange, along with refreshing mint and a spicy kick. The finish is warm and lingering, showcasing the agave's sweetness.

1800 Añejo Cristalino: Sweet and Smooth Tequila Shot

Prefer a smooth and slightly sweet tequila shot? 1800 Añejo Cristalino might be your perfect match. This Cristalino tequila undergoes a special filtration for exceptional smoothness and clarity.

What makes it unique? Aging in ex-Port wine casks adds a touch of sweetness and complexity. The aroma is pleasant, with hints of vanilla and anise. The taste offers a delightful mix of cherry, vanilla, and subtle oak, balanced by a touch of black pepper. The finish is short, sweet, and free of any harsh burn, leaving a pleasant and satisfying conclusion.

Espolon Blanco: Budget-Friendly Tequila for Shots and Cocktails

Espolon Blanco is a versatile tequila known for its peppery kick, making it a favorite for mixed drinks. But don't underestimate it for shots! Espolon offers a satisfying taste that's easy to drink without being overwhelming.

The aroma is light and earthy, with a hint of black pepper. The taste starts with a touch of warmth, transitioning to a gentle sweetness with fruity and vanilla notes. The finish is moderately long, leaving a pleasant citrus and peppery warmth. Plus, the cool skeleton bottle design adds a fun touch to any gathering.

Tres Agaves Blanco: Organic Quality for Value-Conscious Tequila Lovers

Looking for a top-notch Blanco tequila without breaking the bank? Tres Agaves delivers! Made with 100% organic agave, this budget-friendly option rivals pricier brands.

The aroma is rich with agave, complemented by refreshing citrus and floral notes. The taste is well-balanced, featuring sweet agave alongside citrus and a touch of black pepper for a subtle kick. The finish is short and sweet, leaving a pleasant aftertaste with minimal burn.

Overall, Tres Agaves offers a satisfying and well-rounded experience for organic and budget-conscious tequila enthusiasts.

Tequileño Reposado: Affordable Luxury for Reposado Tequila Shots

Tequileño Reposado offers a premium Reposado experience at a friendly price. Aged in bourbon barrels, it picks up hints of vanilla and caramel, adding a smooth touch to the agave base. Enjoy it as a shot or on the rocks for a satisfying experience.

The taste starts with a refreshing agave note, followed by hints of apple and oak. The vanilla from the barrel aging adds a touch of sweetness. The finish is warm and lingers with citrus and a deeper oak presence, making it a great choice for Reposado tequila lovers who enjoy a shot with a bit more complexity.

El Mayor Añejo: Sweet Añejo Shooter on a Budget

Añejo tequila lovers, rejoice! El Mayor Añejo delivers a smooth and sweet experience without breaking the bank. Often compared to the pricier Don Julio 1942, El Mayor offers hints of caramel, vanilla, and oak with minimal heat. It's perfect for sipping or mixing into classic cocktails like the Tequila Old Fashioned.

The aroma is reminiscent of bourbon, with light notes of caramel, oak, vanilla, and even raisins. The taste is delightful, featuring a blend of fruity notes, vanilla, caramel, and toasted oak. The finish is satisfyingly long with a gentle peppery kick that lingers without any harsh alcohol burn.

El Mayor Añejo proves that you can enjoy a delicious Añejo tequila for a great price.

Don Julio Blanco: A Classic Tequila Shooter

Don Julio Blanco is a familiar name, offering a smooth and sweet taste that works well in shots or on the rocks. The aroma leans towards alcohol, hinting at some warmth. The flavor itself is pleasant, featuring citrus alongside earthy and mineral notes with a touch of black pepper. While not super spicy, the texture could be creamier. The finish is moderately long, with lingering sweetness and a touch of sharpness often found in tequilas.

If you're looking for a widely available tequila for shots, Don Julio Blanco is a great option.

How to Choose the Best Tequilas for Shooting Straight

• Prioritize Smoothness: Look for Tequilas known for their smoothness, minimizing the need for a chaser.
• Authentic Agave Flavors: Choose Tequilas with authentic agave tastes that dominate the flavor profile.
• Silky Finishes: Opt for Tequilas with silky, pleasant finishes, enhancing the shot experience.
• Select Based on Expertise: Consider expert opinions like those of Neil Coleman, and customer feedback for reliable selections.
• Variety in Types: Explore different types like Blanco, Reposado, and Añejo, each offering unique characteristics ideal for straight shots.
• Balanced Alcohol Content: Choose Tequilas with balanced alcohol content, providing warmth without overpowering harshness.
• Affordability Matters: Ensure the Tequila offers value for money, balancing quality with cost for the ideal shot experience.
• Minimal Additives: Prefer Tequilas free of artificial sweeteners or additives, for a purer taste.
• Versatility: While primarily for shots, consider if the Tequila can also be enjoyed in other ways, like on the rocks or in cocktails.
• Enjoy Responsibly: Remember to consume responsibly, appreciating the unique qualities of each Tequila.

Frequently Asked Questions

A quick FAQ:

What is the focus of this guide for Tequilas to shoot straight?

• The guide, advised by expert Neil Coleman, focuses on Tequilas suitable for straight shots, emphasizing smoothness and authentic agave flavors.

How are the Tequilas in this guide selected?

• Selection is based on expert advice, customer insights, and criteria like smoothness, sweetness, and affordability for the ideal shot experience.

Can these Tequilas be enjoyed in other ways besides shots?

• While selected for shooting, many of these Tequilas are versatile and can also be enjoyed on the rocks or in cocktails.

What types of Tequila are included in this selection?

• This guide focuses in Blanco Tequila which is the top choice for shooting.

How important is the alcohol content in choosing a Tequila for shots?

• Balanced alcohol content is key, providing enough warmth without overpowering harshness, enhancing the shot experience.

Should I consider the price when choosing a Tequila for shots?

• Yes, ensure the Tequila offers good value for money, balancing quality with cost for an ideal shot experience.

Is it important to choose Tequilas with minimal additives?

• Yes, prefer Tequilas free of artificial sweeteners or additives for a purer and more authentic taste.

How should I consume these Tequilas responsibly?

• Enjoy these Tequilas responsibly, savoring their unique qualities and flavors while consuming in moderation.