Best Tequilas for Cocktails & Mixing

Last Updated on: 17th May 2024, 05:22 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.

Find the perfect Tequila for mixed drinks with my guide, featuring top 100% Blue Weber agave Tequilas selected with expert Neil Coleman's input and customer input.

Written by: J Highland

Choosing the Best Tequila to Make Cocktails

• Top Affordable Choices: 3 Agaves and Dulce Vida, praised for their pleasing taste and ideal flavor profile for cocktails, offer affordability for mixologists and enthusiasts.
• Budget-Friendly Options: Kirkland Silver and Member’s Mark Silver provide value for money, suitable for cocktails, despite a slightly harsher taste.
• Ideal Tequila Types: Blanco or Silver Tequila is best for mixing due to its neutral taste; Reposados and Añejos can be used but add oak and vanilla notes.
• No Need for High-End Brands: Great cocktail Tequilas are available for under $30, negating the need for expensive brands.
• 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 for Mixed Drinks & Cocktails

Prices are approximate and stated in USD:

Tres Agaves: A Blanco Delight

Tres Agaves offers a refreshing nose of agave, citrus, and floral notes. The smooth, dense texture carries flavors of crisp agave, lemon zest, and a hint of black pepper. The finish is short and slightly sweet, leaving a clean and pleasant aftertaste.

Excellent value: For its price, Tres Agaves delivers exceptional quality. Free of additives, it rivals pricier tequilas in taste.

Cocktail Champion: While Tres Agaves shines in any cocktail, its citrus and peppery notes create outstanding margaritas.

Highly Recommended: Seeking a top-shelf Blanco tequila without the premium price tag? Look no further than Tres Agaves, states tequila expert Neil Coleman.

Dulce Vida Blanco: A Sip of Sunshine

Dulce Vida greets you with a crisp aroma of green apples, mingling with agave and a subtle alcohol warmth. The taste is a delightful balance of rich agave sweetness, a touch of olive, and a gentle pepper spice that complements the green apple notes. The finish is pleasantly warm, lingering with a touch of sweetness and a whisper of pepper.

More than a Mixer: While Dulce Vida shines in Palomas thanks to its citrusy notes, it's also a great sipping tequila on its own, neat or on the rocks. Its well-rounded flavor profile and clean aftertaste make it a crowd-pleaser.

Espolon Blanco: The Mixer's Choice - Sweet, Warm & Peppery

Espolon Blanco offers a subtle nose with earthy hints, black pepper spice, and a touch of alcohol. The palate is pleasantly warm and sweet, showcasing fruity notes and vanilla. This leads to a moderately long finish with refreshing citrus and lingering peppery heat.

Easy on the Wallet, Easy on the Palate: Espolon Blanco avoids overpowering sweetness or harsh pepper. It's a budget-friendly choice that delivers desired flavors without breaking the bank.

Perfect for mixing Margaritas and cocktails, it's a versatile tequila for any occasion.

1800 Silver: Mild & Mellow Agave Delight

1800 Silver offers a gentle introduction with a mellow agave aroma, accented by a touch of black pepper, citrus, and a subtle alcohol note that quickly fades. The taste follows suit, presenting a soft and sweet profile with whispers of agave, orange, and black pepper.

Straightforward Smoothness: For those seeking a Tequila that's easy on the palate, 1800 Silver delivers. It avoids harshness or unpleasant flavors, making it an enjoyable choice neat or on the rocks.

Cocktail Canvas: The smooth profile of 1800 Silver also makes it a great base for crafting super smooth mixed drinks. Whether you're feeling adventurous with shots or prefer a laid-back experience, 1800 Silver is a versatile choice.

Tapatio 110: A High Proof Revelation

Tapatio 110 isn't your average Tequila. The bold "110" on the bottle signifies its 110 proof (55% ABV), packing a stronger punch than most. But don't be intimidated! Despite the higher alcohol content, Tapatio 110 remains surprisingly smooth.

Perfect for the Discerning Palate: This high-proof Tequila is ideal for those who appreciate bolder flavors. It shines in both creative cocktails and neat sips on the rocks.

Agave & Spice Symphony: The aroma opens with a hint of alcohol, quickly giving way to inviting notes of cooked agave, black pepper, and refreshing grapefruit. The creamy texture on the palate complements the natural sweetness of blue agave, balanced with hints of lime, mint, orange, and subtle minerals.

Cocktail Champion & Tequila Matchmaker Approved: Tapatio 110's unique profile makes it a favorite among bartenders for crafting exceptional Mojitos and Mexican Martinis. This Tequila has also garnered high praise from Tequila Matchmaker, a trusted authority in the world of agave spirits.

The finish is a delightful combination of pleasant warmth and lingering agave sweetness, leaving a lasting impression.

Craft Cocktail Contender: Altos Plata Tequila

Born from the collaboration of two British bartenders, Altos Plata Tequila isn't your average blanco. This unique spirit boasts a flavor profile specifically designed to shine in cocktails.

Unlike tequilas focused on sipping neat, Plata's earthy agave, vegetal notes, and a touch of peppery spice create a complex base for exploration.

While sipping it straight might be a bold choice for some, Altos Plata truly transforms classic cocktails like margaritas and palomas. Its rich, layered character adds depth and intrigue to your next mixed drink adventure.

Budget-Friendly Blanco: Lunazul Tequila

Lunazul Blanco offers a rich agave aroma with hints of black pepper and vanilla on the nose. The taste is a pleasant surprise, with sweet agave flavors balanced by black pepper, cinnamon, and refreshing citrus. While the finish is warm with a touch of bitterness, adding ice helps create a smooth experience.

Lunazul Blanco might not be your top choice for sipping neat, but its affordability and 100% Blue Weber agave composition make it a perfect base for creating cocktails at home.

Reposado Revelation: Espolon Reposado Tequila

Espolon Reposado isn't your average reposado. Forget smoky or overly sweet – this Tequila boasts a delightful balance.

The nose opens with a sweet agave aroma, while the taste unfolds like a dessert, offering hints of butterscotch, vanilla, and sugar cookie, all intertwined with warming oak spice. The finish is smooth and slightly sweet, with a touch of peppery heat.

This isn't just any cocktail tequila. Espolon Reposado's complexity makes it a standout choice. Think beyond the standard margarita – it elevates your mixed drinks with its rich, nuanced character, adding depth and a touch of Irish whiskey charm (minus the bite) to your creations.

Reposado for the Mixologist: Milagro Reposado Tequila

Milagro Reposado offers a bold agave aroma with subtle hints of oak and vanilla on the nose. While the agave takes center stage on the palate, oak and warming alcohol notes are present. Caramel and vanilla peek through, hinting at the tequila's time spent in barrels. The finish is warm with lingering notes of caramel and wood.

Milagro Reposado's affordability and flavor profile make it a great choice for crafting cocktails.

The oaky notes and touch of sweetness from the barrel will add depth and complexity to your mixed creations, especially for those seeking an approachable reposado without a hefty price tag.

Enjoy it on the rocks or let it shine in your next cocktail.

Añejo Alternative: 1800 Añejo Tequila

Craving a smooth sipper but on a budget? Look no further than 1800 Añejo Tequila.

This añejo offers a surprising departure from the typical tequila profile. The nose hints at familiar whisky territory with notes reminiscent of vanilla, spice, and caramel. The taste follows suit, delivering a smooth and sweet experience with fruity undertones. Think of it as a tequila with a scotch soul – minus the burn.

1800 Añejo's affordability and crowd-pleasing flavor profile make it a great option for both sipping and mixing. Enjoy it neat or create a unique twist on classic cocktails like the Old Fashioned or Tequila Sour.

Añejo Underdog: El Mayor Añejo Tequila

El Mayor Añejo might surprise you. This añejo boasts a complex aroma of caramel, reminiscent of bourbon, intertwined with hints of oak, vanilla, and even raisins. The taste follows through with a fruity note leading into a symphony of vanilla, caramel, and toasted oak flavors. The finish is a delightful surprise – peppery but without any harsh burn, offering a smooth and satisfying conclusion.

El Mayor Añejo stands out for its value. It delivers a surprisingly refined taste at a budget-friendly price. This añejo is a perfect choice for those seeking a delicious and affordable sipping experience, or a unique base for crafting exceptional cocktails.

Costco's Cocktail Champion: Kirkland Signature Tequila

Costco Tequila, also known as Kirkland Signature Tequila, might not be your top shelf choice, but its wallet-friendly price tag makes it a great option for mixed drinks.

This 100% agave tequila boasts a nose dominated by agave with a hint of vanilla and a touch of alcohol. The peppery heat on the palate is balanced by roasted agave flavors, with a hint of sweetness. While the finish is short to medium, it leaves a lingering warmth and peppery spice.

While sipping it neat might not be its forte, Costco Tequila truly shines in cocktails. Its affordability and agave-forward character make it a perfect base for creating delicious margaritas, punches, or any tequila-based mixed drink.

Add some pineapple juice or Sprite for a refreshing twist, and enjoy!

Sam's Club's Budget-Friendly Blanco: Member's Mark Silver Tequila

For Sam's Club shoppers seeking a budget-friendly tequila, Member's Mark Silver Tequila offers a comparable option to Costco's tequila. While it might not be a sipping tequila, its value makes it a great choice for mixing.

The nose is strong on alcohol, but hints of agave and vegetal notes emerge with time. A touch of black pepper adds complexity. The taste is light-bodied, with an initial punch of alcohol followed by black pepper and those vegetal notes. A subtle bitterness is present, too. The finish is short and warm, with a lingering peppery kick.

Member's Mark Silver shines in mixed drinks. Its affordability and boldness make it perfect for experimentation – add it to your favorite cocktails for a touch of warmth and peppery spice.

This tequila is all about creating delicious cocktails without breaking the bank.

How to Choose the Perfect Tequila for Cocktails

• Expert and Customer Recommendations: Rely on advice from Tequila expert Neil Coleman and customer feedback to select the best Tequilas for cocktails.
• 100% Blue Weber Agave: Opt for Tequilas made from 100% Blue Weber agave for their purity and quality, which is essential for a great cocktail.
• Affordability and Quality: Look for affordable options that offer a pleasing taste and ideal flavor profile for cocktails, like Tres Agaves Blanco and Dulce Vida.
• Blanco/Silver Tequila for Versatility: Prefer Blanco or Silver Tequilas for their neutral taste, making them versatile for a variety of cocktails.
• Balanced Flavor Profile: Choose Tequilas that provide a good balance of agave, citrus, and spice flavors to enhance your mixed drinks.
• Avoid Overly Expensive Brands for Mixing: Great cocktail Tequilas can be found at a lower price point, negating the need for high-end brands in mixed drinks.
• Cocktail Suitability: Consider how the Tequila will interact with other ingredients in your cocktail to ensure a harmonious blend.
• Moderation in Consumption: Even with the best Tequila, moderation is key to enjoying your cocktails responsibly.
• Experiment with Different Types: While Blancos are great for mixing, don’t hesitate to experiment with Reposados or Añejos in cocktails for added complexity.
• Enjoy the Mixology Journey: Have fun exploring different Tequila brands and types in your cocktails, appreciating the unique qualities each brings to your drink.

Frequently asked questions

A quick FAQ to address your inquiries:

What Are Some Top Affordable Choices for Tequila in Cocktails?

• Top Picks: 3 Agaves and Dulce Vida are praised for their pleasing taste and suitability for cocktails, offering affordability for mixologists and enthusiasts.

Are There Budget-Friendly Tequila Options for Cocktails?

• Economical Choices: Kirkland Silver and Member’s Mark Silver provide value for money. They are suitable for cocktails, despite a slightly harsher taste.

What Is the Selection Process for These Recommended Tequilas?

• Selection Criteria: The list features top 100% Blue Weber agave tequilas, selected with input from expert Neil Coleman and customer feedback, perfect for elevating your cocktail experience.

Is High-End Tequila Necessary for Good Cocktails?

• Budget-Friendly Quality: Great cocktail tequilas are available for under $30, making expensive brands like Patron, Casamigos, or Don Julio unnecessary for quality mixed drinks.

What Is the Most Widely Used Tequila for Cocktails in Mexico?

• Popular in Mexico: Jose Cuervo Especial Silver is commonly used, but it is not recommended due to its lower quality and potential for hangovers, as it's not a 100% agave tequila.

How Important Is the Quality of Tequila in Cocktails?

• Quality Consideration: While bartenders often use inexpensive ingredients for cocktails, it's crucial to consider the quality of tequila to avoid negative health effects and hangovers. Opt for 100% agave tequilas for a better experience.