Last Updated on: 17th May 2024, 02:22 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.
Dive into the world of pure, additive-free Tequilas with this expert guide by Tequila sommelier Alex Galina, enriched by customer insights.
Explore top choices from Blancos to Extra Añejos, catering to every budget.
Written by: J Highland
Choosing the Best Additive-Free Tequila
Here's the best additive-free tequila for every taste in a nutshell:
- Blanco: Love agave? Go for Fuenteseca Cosecha 2018 or Siete Leguas Blanco. Want something bold? Try Fortaleza Blanco.
- Reposado: Unique barrel finish? Choose Volans Single Barrel Reposado.
- Añejo: Bourbon lover? Fortaleza Añejo or Siete Leguas Añejo are your picks. Prefer a balanced agave & oak? Tesoro Reposado is the way to go.
- Extra Añejo: Splurge on Patron Extra Añejo 10 Años or be amazed by the organic Alquimia Extra Añejo.
- Budget-friendly: Blanco - Cimarron Blanco, Reposado - Tequileño Reposado.
- Sweet Blanco: Tres Agaves Blanco.
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.
Quick Look at the Best Additive-Free Tequilas
This roundup includes additive-free Tequilas in every category and price range catering to all tastes and budgets:
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
Fuenteseca Cosecha 2018: Blanco Tequila Excellence
Tequila lovers, rejoice! Fuenteseca Cosecha 2018 is a must-try additive-free Blanco. Expect a complex aroma of roasted agave, earthy tones, and black pepper. The taste is full-bodied and smooth, bursting with agave alongside subtle mineral and olive notes. Tropical fruit hints add balance. The finish is long and smooth, with lingering vanilla and black pepper. This premium tequila comes with a higher price tag, but for Blanco excellence, it's worth it.
Also read: What is Additive Free Tequila?
Siete Leguas Blanco: Pure Agave Excellence
Siete Leguas Blanco impresses with a rich aroma of roasted agave and black pepper, layered with earthy and vegetal hints. The taste is buttery smooth with a touch of warmth, dominated by the pure agave flavor. Black pepper complements the agave throughout. The finish lingers with a pleasant warmth, transitioning to sweet blue agave and a subtle black pepper farewell.
This tequila free of additives stands out for its clean, crisp taste, making it a top contender among Blanco tequilas, states tequila expert Neil Coleman.
Fortaleza Blanco: A Symphony of Flavors
Fortaleza Blanco offers a unique aroma profile with green olives, cooked agave, and citrusy notes of orange and lime. On the palate, it boasts an oily texture, balancing olive and sweet blue agave with hints of ripe fruit, mint, and a touch of black pepper. The finish is long and peppery, with lingering anise and agave alongside a satisfying warmth.
Authentic tequila, showcasing a robust cooked agave character with subtle olive and perfect sweetness. Ideal for sipping, Fortaleza Blanco delivers a balanced heat and a rich blue agave experience.
G4 Blanco: Agave Forward with Earthy Elegance
G4 Blanco opens with a captivating aroma of roasted agave, earthy tones, grassy hints, and black pepper. The taste is all about the blue agave, complemented by a complex interplay of saltiness, earthiness, and citrus notes with a touch of grass. The finish is long and warming, offering lingering hints of cinnamon and black pepper, and a satisfyingly dry conclusion.
This exemplary Blanco, crafted by the revered Camarena family, delivers a rich agave experience with a touch of heat. Enjoy it neat or on the rocks with large cubes to savor its full flavor profile.
Cascahuin: Small-Batch Tequila for Agave Aficionados
A favorite among connoisseurs, Cascahuin is a small-batch tequila crafted at Destileria Cascahuin, the distillery behind esteemed brands like Loco and Wild Common.
Its aroma entices with dominant orange and lemon peel alongside rich agave and earthy hints of wet soil. The palate is buttery smooth, delivering a pleasant mouthfeel. The taste is warming and rich in agave, balanced by earthiness and subtle orange and cinnamon notes. The finish is long and sweet, showcasing natural agave sweetness with a subtle black pepper farewell.
Ideal for agave enthusiasts, Cascahuin is best enjoyed neat or on the rocks. Its higher proof (42% ABV) offers a full-bodied experience without overwhelming heat.
Lalo: Smooth Delight for Tequila Fans
Founded by Eduardo Gonzalez, grandson of Don Julio Gonzalez, Lalo Tequila prioritizes additive-free, natural flavors.
The aroma offers a balanced mix of agave, citrus, black pepper, with grassy and earthy hints. The palate is creamy and smooth, featuring natural agave sweetness alongside citrus, vanilla, cinnamon, and a touch of black pepper. Expect minimal warmth. The finish is brief with a pleasant touch of baking spice.
Suitable for all tequila enthusiasts, Lalo delivers a solid, easy-drinking experience.
Terralta Blanco 110: Bold Agave with Unexpected Smoothness
Terralta Blanco 110 takes a bold approach. The aroma starts with a burst of alcohol heat, giving way to cooked agave, earthy tones, minerals, and a subtle hint of anise. Don't let the initial heat fool you – the palate is surprisingly creamy and full-bodied. The flavor unfolds smoothly, showcasing rich blue agave alongside olive, mint, cinnamon, and black pepper. The finish is persistent and warming, with lingering hints of pepper and agave.
Despite its high 110 proof (55% ABV), Terralta Blanco 110 delivers unexpected smoothness and a satisfying finish, all at a reasonable price point around $50. This makes it a great choice for adventurous tequila enthusiasts seeking a rich agave experience with a kick.
Arette Blanco 101: Powerful Agave with Balanced Depth
Arette Blanco 101 lives up to its reputation. Expect a bold aroma of cooked agave with salty hints and a fleeting alcohol note. The mouthfeel is pleasantly thick and full-bodied. The flavor offers a gentle warmth alongside powerful cooked agave, balanced by spicy black pepper and hints of vegetal asparagus and baking spice. The finish is satisfyingly warm with a subtle touch of cinnamon.
This 101-proof (50.5% ABV) tequila packs a punch but remains well-balanced and flavorful, making it a great choice for those seeking a powerful agave experience.
Cazacanes No. 9: Flavorful Punch with Smoothness
Spice lovers, rejoice! Cazacanes No. 9 opens with a captivating aroma of clove, cinnamon, and roasted agave, layered with a hint of minerals. The mouthfeel is luxuriously velvety, offering a satisfying experience. The flavor is dominated by bold agave, balanced by vegetal asparagus and touches of anise and black pepper. The finish is long and spicy, leaving a satisfying warmth.
This 100-proof (50% ABV) tequila is ideal for those craving a flavorful, high-proof experience, yet surprisingly smooth without any harsh burn.
Volans Single Barrel Reposado: Unique Flavor from Start to Finish
Sourced from a single barrel for an exclusive taste, Volans Single Barrel Reposado offers a light and inviting aroma. Expect notes of agave, vanilla, ripe fruit, and a touch of earthiness alongside subtle oak hints. The creamy texture delivers a powerful agave punch, balanced by roasted pineapple, caramel, and earthy tones. The finish is warm and inviting with a lingering dried fruit note.
This exceptional tequila showcases a distinct cooked agave character complemented by subtle barrel aging, making it a true standout. The finish is truly impressive, solidifying its place as a new favorite reposado.
Crafted at El Pandillo Distillery alongside renowned brands like G4 and Terralta, Volans Single Barrel Reposado promises a unique and delightful sipping experience.
Ocho Reposado Widow Jane: Agave & Spice for Bourbon Lovers
Ocho Reposado Widow Jane boasts an aroma dominated by agave, with intriguing hints of cinnamon and mint. The mouthfeel is truly remarkable, offering a unique combination of chewiness and smoothness.
The flavor profile is a delightful dance between agave sweetness, nutty pecans, warming cinnamon, and refreshing mint, all balanced by subtle earthiness. The finish is lengthy and warm, leaving a satisfying trail of baking spice.
While priced at just under $100, this Ocho Reposado is a worthwhile investment for its unique flavor profile. Ideal for bourbon drinkers curious about exploring tequila, Ocho Reposado Widow Jane, crafted by the Camarena family, delivers a quality experience that won't disappoint.
ArteNOM 1414 Reposado: Agave Harmony with Subtle Oak Touch
ArteNOM 1414 Reposado entices with a sweet and inviting aroma of honey, agave, and vanilla, with a subtle hint of alcohol. The creamy palate offers a satisfying mouthfeel, leading into flavors dominated by cooked agave and a pleasant sweetness. Hints of caramel, vanilla, and oak create a well-balanced profile. The finish is enduring, with a warm sensation and lingering oak notes.
This impressive reposado showcases a beautiful balance between prominent cooked agave flavors and subtle oak influence, making it a must-try for any tequila enthusiast.
Mijenta Reposado: A Sustainable Tequila with Uncommon Flair
Mijenta Reposado offers a truly unique aroma profile unlike any other. Expect a burst of banana, watermelon, cinnamon, and agave. The palate continues the surprise with black pepper joining the party alongside agave and banana, with a touch of clove adding complexity. The finish is well-balanced, leaving a lingering sweetness and a touch of spice.
This isn't your typical reposado. Mijenta prioritizes uniqueness and eco-consciousness. Made with sustainably grown agaves under the guidance of Master Distiller Ana Maria Romero, Mijenta Reposado is a great choice for environmentally conscious tequila enthusiasts. The brand even goes a step further by using recycled materials for bottles and agave waste for labels.
If you're looking for an authentic tequila experience with rich, uncommon flavors and a commitment to sustainability, Mijenta Reposado is definitely worth a try.
Tesoro Reposado: A Delightful Balance of Agave and Oak
Tesoro Reposado invites you in with a warm aroma of cinnamon, lime zest, and a hint of subtle chocolate. The smooth, buttery texture on the palate delivers a robust agave punch, complemented by hints of vanilla, mint, and refreshing lime. A delicate smokiness adds intrigue to the overall profile. The finish is refreshing and long-lasting, offering a comforting warmth and a touch of menthol.
This genuinely additive-free tequila is full-bodied and showcases a well-balanced interplay between the rich agave character and the subtle influence of oak aging. Crafted by Carlos Camarena, Tesoro Reposado delivers a high-quality experience at a good value.
Fulano Reposado: Natural Tequila with Peachy Charm
Fulano Reposado entices with a delightful aroma of fresh peach, sprinkled with hints of cinnamon, agave, and subtle vanilla. The palate is dominated by the rich agave flavor, complemented by notes of oak and warming cinnamon. A touch of smoke adds complexity without overpowering the experience. The finish is sweet and smooth, making it ideal for sipping.
This fantastic tequila stands out for its natural character, free from additives or chemicals. While the aroma leans towards sweet peach and agave, the taste offers a full-bodied experience with a rich, oily texture and a dry finish.
Fulano Reposado is a great choice for those seeking a natural tequila with a unique twist.
Fortaleza Añejo: Añejo Excellence for Bourbon Lovers
Fortaleza Añejo delivers a captivating aroma of caramel, vanilla, toasted oak, and underlying roasted agave scents. The palate is smooth and comforting, with a luxurious velvety texture. The flavor unfolds with rich blue agave, balanced by sweet vanilla and butterscotch notes, and a touch of oak spice. The finish is lingering and warm, offering a chest-warming sensation. The aftertaste lingers with layers of blue agave, hints of pineapple, caramel, and oak, creating a complex and satisfying experience.
Considered among the best Añejo tequilas, Fortaleza Añejo achieves a perfect balance. Its bourbon-like richness makes it ideal for bourbon enthusiasts looking to explore the world of agave spirits.
ArteNom 1146: An "Insider's Pick" Añejo with Unique Aging
ArteNom 1146 stands out for its unique aging process. This Añejo spends two years in ex-Cabernet Franc barrels, followed by three years for a select 40% batch. Finally, it's blended in ex-bourbon barrels for a year, resulting in a complex and deeply appreciated sipping tequila.
Expect a rich aroma bursting with dried fruit notes, a hallmark of this award-winning Añejo. The intricate aging process delivers a well-balanced palate, drawing comparisons to Don Julio 1942 at a more affordable price point (under $100). This unique Añejo has earned its reputation as an "insider's pick" for the knowledgeable tequila connoisseur.
Siete Leguas Añejo: Tequila with Bourbon-Kissed Agave
Siete Leguas Añejo opens with a warm and inviting aroma of butterscotch, vanilla, and subtle hints of roasted agave. The velvety smooth palate delivers a delightful combination of blue agave, vanilla, and caramel, accented by baking spices and subtle wood notes. The finish is lengthy, sweet, and satisfying, leaving a lingering trail of oak spice, vanilla, and butterscotch.
Agave-forward but boasting whiskey-like notes of vanilla and caramel, Siete Leguas Añejo is ideal for bourbon enthusiasts looking to explore the world of agave spirits. It truly delivers the best of both worlds.
G4 Añejo: Pure Agave Harmony with Subtle Oak Flair
G4 Añejo, crafted by Felipe Camarena, opens with a delicate and inviting aroma of vanilla, caramel, and a hint of orange peel. The buttery texture offers a gentle warmth on the initial sip, leading into a rich agave flavor accented by nuances of vanilla and black pepper. The oak influence is well-balanced, allowing the bright agave notes to shine through. The finish is long and satisfying, with a warm sensation and a lingering taste of cinnamon and agave.
This additive-free Añejo is a perfect choice for tequila enthusiasts seeking purity with a touch of oak complexity. G4 Añejo showcases the expertise of Felipe Camarena, delivering a blend of pure agave and subtle oak influence.
Patron Añejo: Sweet Sipper with a Hint of Oak
Patron Añejo offers a straightforward and crowd-pleasing experience at a reasonable price (under $75).
The aroma is dominated by oak and vanilla with underlying roasted agave notes. The flavor leans heavily on caramel sweetness, with hints of almond, tobacco, and oak. While the agave presence is more subtle, it avoids any undesirable notes or additives.
The finish is warm with lingering caramel, appealing to those who enjoy sweeter tequilas. Overall, Patron Añejo delivers a competent and enjoyable sipping experience, making it possibly the best-value Patron tequila, especially for those who prefer a sweeter profile.
Partida Añejo: Tequila with a Jack Daniel's Kiss
Partida Añejo 18 Months takes a distinctive approach to aging, spending 18 months in ex-Jack Daniel's barrels.
This process translates to a smooth, sweet experience on the nose, with aromas of oak, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla, and even a hint of aged leather. The palate is rich in baking spices and agave, followed by waves of vanilla and ripe fruit flavors. The velvety finish lingers with oak and ripe fruit notes, with minimal heat.
Free of additives, Partida Añejo ensures an authentic tequila experience. The initial burst of rich baking spices creates an enjoyable and intriguing sip, perfect for those seeking a unique Añejo expression.
Alquimia Extra Añejo: A 14-Year Agave Journey
Alquimia Extra Añejo stands out as a remarkable organic tequila, aged for a staggering 14 years. Despite its high proof (100!), the aroma is surprisingly balanced, offering subtle alcohol alongside hints of agave, dried fruit, vanilla, caramel, and gentle oak.
This tequila defies expectations. After 14 years of aging, the distinct agave flavors remain remarkably intact, showcasing a masterful balance between agave and oak influence. The high proof translates to an intriguing warmth without any harshness.
Exceptional quality shines through, with estate-grown organic agaves used in the production. Alquimia Extra Añejo is not only a memorable sipping experience but also surprisingly reasonably priced. For those seeking a truly remarkable tequila, Alquimia Extra Añejo comes highly recommended.
Fuenteseca Reserva 7 Year Extra Añejo: Agave and Oak in Harmony (Pricier But Worth It)
Fuenteseca Reserva 7 Year Extra Añejo takes a balanced approach to aging, spending 80% of its time in American white oak barrels and 20% in dark French oak. The aroma reflects this, offering a dominant oak presence with underlying notes of ripe fruit, grapes, and agave.
The palate boasts a satisfyingly dense texture, followed by flavors that showcase a dance between the agave and oak influences. Subtle oak mingles with agave, ripe fruit, caramel, cinnamon, and a touch of nutmeg. The finish is relatively short, leaving a gentle warmth and lingering notes of barrel spice and caramel.
This Extra Añejo prioritizes a balance between the bright agave character and the smooth influence of oak aging. While pricier, Fuenteseca Reserva 7 Year Extra Añejo is a worthy addition to any tequila collection for those who appreciate a balanced and well-aged tequila.
Arette Gran Clase Extra Añejo: 10-Year Agave Triumph with Bold Warmth
Arette Gran Clase Extra Añejo stands out for its bold and assertive profile. The aroma is reminiscent of bourbon, with rich caramel and vanilla notes alongside hints of orange and apricot. The oily texture on the palate is luxuriously satisfying. Despite its high proof (104!), the initial sip offers a moderate warmth that complements, rather than overpowers, the flavor profile.
Bottled at 104 proof, Arette Gran Clase Extra Añejo offers a full-bodied and flavorful experience without any harshness. The warming sensation adds to the enjoyment, making it a perfect sipping tequila. This all-natural, additive-free tequila delivers exceptional value for an Extra Añejo.
Patron Extra Añejo 10 Años: A Splendid Dance of Agave and Oak (Worth the Splurge)
Patron Extra Añejo 10 Años presents a captivating aroma of dried fruit, cinnamon, butter, and roasted nuts. The thick texture translates to a luxuriously satisfying mouthfeel on the palate. Despite 10 years of aging, the agave character remains dominant, beautifully balanced with hints of roasted nuts and a touch of natural caramel sweetness from the oak influence.
The finish is smooth and free of any harshness or heat, leaving a lingering aftertaste of caramel and vanilla. This Extra Añejo achieves a remarkable balance – the rich agave flavor remains the star of the show, complemented by subtle oak notes and hints of roasted nuts.
While priced higher than other Extra Añejos, Patron Extra Añejo 10 Años delivers a truly special experience. It's a perfect choice for those who appreciate a mature tequila that retains its agave identity while showcasing the artistry of extended oak aging.
Tears of Llorona Extra Añejo: A Symphony of Flavor in a Dark Enigma
Tears of Llorona Extra Añejo stuns with its impressive rich, dark color, hinting at the complex journey it's taken. Despite its boldness, the mouthfeel is surprisingly light, offering a smooth and easy-drinking experience with minimal burn. The flavor profile is a captivating dance of balanced smoky, oaky, sweet, and spicy notes, making it a true sipping tequila.
Crafted by Enrique Fonseca, this is undeniably one of the finest tequilas to emerge from Mexico. While the short finish might leave you wanting more, the symphony of flavors ensures a truly memorable and delightful sip.
Cimarron Blanco: A Knockout Blanco for Budget-Conscious Enthusiasts
Cimarron Blanco stands out as an exceptional value in the Blanco category. This wallet-friendly tequila is free of additives, making it a great choice for health-conscious consumers.
While it may not offer the complex layers of pricier blancos, Cimarron Blanco delivers remarkable quality at an unbeatable price. This is a perfect Blanco for those who appreciate a clean agave expression without the hefty price tag.
Tres Agaves Blanco: A Refreshing Tequila with a Hint of Sweetness
Tres Agaves Blanco offers a nose dominated by the crisp aroma of blue agave, accented by refreshing citrus and floral hints. The thick texture translates to a luxuriously satisfying mouthfeel on the palate. The flavor profile strikes a delightful balance between the natural sweetness of agave and bright notes of lemon and orange. A subtle touch of black pepper adds a hint of complexity without overpowering the experience.
Ideal for sipping neat or on the rocks, Tres Agaves Blanco also embraces the trendy addition of a sugar cube for those who enjoy a touch of sweetness.
Tequileño Reposado: A Top Choice for Reposado Enthusiasts
Tequileño Reposado stands out as an exceptional value and a top choice for those seeking a delicious Reposado experience. This additive-free Repsoado tequila allows the natural flavors to shine through.
Renowned as one of the best entry-level Reposado tequilas on the market, Tequileño Reposado delivers exceptional quality at an affordable price. This is a perfect choice for those who appreciate a balanced and flavorful Reposado, free from artificial additives.
You can read the Spanish version of this post at Tequilas Sin Aditivos!
How to Choose Good Additive-Free Tequilas
- Expert Insights and Customer Feedback: Rely on the expertise of Tequila sommelier Alex Galina and customer reviews for well-informed choices.
- Range from Blanco to Extra Añejo: Explore options across all Tequila types, from crisp Blancos to rich Extra Añejos, to suit different palates and occasions.
- Focus on Pure Agave Flavor: Choose Tequilas that emphasize the natural flavor of agave, with water and natural yeasts as the only additional ingredients.
- Smoothness Is Key: Opt for Tequilas that offer a smooth experience, crucial for enjoying Tequila in its purest form.
- Brand Reputation and Quality: Consider the reputation and quality assurance of the brand, ensuring a premium, additive-free experience.
- Value for Money: Look for Tequilas that offer good value, balancing quality and cost, especially when exploring higher-end options like Extra Añejos.
- Versatility in Use: While some Tequilas are best enjoyed neat, others may be versatile enough for cocktails, adding a natural agave flavor to your drinks.
- Alcohol Content: Be mindful of the alcohol content, as it can vary significantly, especially in high-proof Tequilas, affecting flavor and drinking experience.
- Enjoy Responsibly: Savor these Tequilas responsibly, appreciating their authenticity and the craftsmanship behind each bottle.
Frequently asked questions
A quick FAQ on additive-free Tequila:
What Are Additives in Tequila and Are They Disclosed?
Tequila distillers aren't obligated to disclose additives, which are allowed by Mexican law up to 1% of total content. These additives approved by the Ministry of Health can include glycerine, caramel coloring, oak extracts, sugar-based syrup, and approved colorants and flavorings.
Why Are Additives Used in Tequila?
Additives ensure consistency in aroma and flavor from batch to batch, catering to consumer preferences for a uniform product.
How Can You Identify Additive-Free Tequila?
Since bottles don't list ingredients, the only way to identify additive-free Tequila is by taste. Tequilas with additives often have an overly sweet taste and strong vanilla notes, while pure Tequila has a natural sweetness from agave.
Why is Tequila Artificially Sweetened?
Artificial sweeteners in Tequila help maintain a consistent taste, avoiding variations between batches and ensuring a predictable flavor profile for consumers.
Where to Buy Additive-Free Tequila?
Look for online retailers that provide clear disclaimers about their Tequilas being free from additives to ensure authenticity.