Tequila Brands of 2024: Tequila Rankings

Last Updated on: 23rd January 2024, 02:29 am

Ranking 44 Tequila Brands: From Infamy to Excellence

Written by: J Highland

Neil Coleman, a Tequila expert and customer feedback contributed to this article which ranks 44 Tequila brands from average to elite.

It covers a range of flavors, aging methods, and blue agave essence, providing valuable insights for both casual drinkers and connoisseurs to enhance their Tequila experience.

Key Takeaways

• Tequila expert Neil Coleman and customer feedback contributed to ranking 44 Tequila brands from average to elite.
• Focuses on flavors, aging methods, and blue agave essence.
• Highlights quality brands like Fortaleza, Siete Leguas, G4, Terralta, Volans, El Tesoro, Tapatio, and Ocho.
• Emphasizes pure, additive-free Tequilas with traditional production methods.
• Includes both affordable and high-end options, providing insights for casual drinkers and connoisseurs.

Tequila Brands Ranked Worst to Best

I have ranked them from worst to best:

44. 818 Tequila

818 is also known as Kendall Jenner’s Tequila.

In my ranking, I position this brand at the bottom due to its Tequila having an entirely artificial taste that barely resembles the genuine Tequila flavor.

However, if you must choose from this brand, I suggest the 818 Blanco, which is smooth, sweet, and reminiscent of Splenda.

It’s reasonably priced and suitable for those without knowledge of agave spirits.

43. Cincoro

Also known as Michael Jordan’s Tequila.

Like 818, Cincoro also suffers from an artificial flavor that overpowers any other taste.

Furthermore, it’s pretty expensive, making it a brand I suggest avoiding.

There is nothing I can recommend from this brand that Michael Jordan should disassociate from to prevent tarnishing his legacy.

42. Jimador Tequila

Jimador is the top-selling Tequila brand in Mexico and is commonly used in cocktails mixed with Coke or grapefruit soda.

Its affordability and use of 100% agave are its strengths, as they prevent a hangover the following day.

However, its taste is not the finest, as it can be a bit harsh, but given its price point, it’s a suitable option as it gets the job done.

41. Hornitos

Once a good Tequila, Hornitos has succumbed to the standard issue that plagues brands acquired by global corporations – quality takes a back seat to meet production targets.

Plata is a poor choice; the Reposado is tolerable, and the Añejo is suitable for cocktail use, but superior options are available at this price range.

40. Adictivo

Adictivo is a Tequila brand that I suspect heavily relies on additives, resulting in an unnatural taste that may not be to everyone’s liking.

However, if you have a sweet tooth, you might enjoy it.

I find it overwhelming and struggle to take more than a few sips.

The Cristalino Extra Añejo is the most popular among the brand’s releases due to its exceptional smoothness and intense sweetness.

It’s a viable choice for those who appreciate this kind of drink.

39. Cazadores Tequila

Cazadores, once a good brand, has declined in quality since Bacardi acquired it.

While the Añejo and Extra Añejo are still acceptable, Cazadores Blanco and Reposado should be avoided as they are not good.

Cazadores Blanco ranks among the worst Blanco Tequilas due to its overly chemical taste.

38. Jose Cuervo

I recommend considering only the Tradicional line from Jose Cuervo, which is made of 100% agave.

I suggest avoiding Jose Cuervo Gold and Silver since they are mixto Tequilas made from a blend of agave and undisclosed sugar sources.

While Jose Cuervo has a questionable reputation due to some poorly rated Tequilas, the Tradicional line is decent and suitable for cocktail-making.

Tradicional Silver, in particular, is a good choice for those seeking an affordable mixer for cocktails.

37. Corralejo

This Tequila brand is unique because it’s crafted in the neighboring state of Guanajuato, which unfortunately has a reputation for frequent shootings.

The most popular release from Corralejo is their Reposado, which is a bit rough but has a smoky note uncommon in Tequila, making it quite fascinating.

Corralejo Reposado is an excellent choice for those who like to endure a bit of roughness in their drinks.

36. Clase Azul

Clase Azul relies heavily on artificial flavors in their Tequilas.

Although the Clase Azul Reposado bottle is visually stunning, the flavor of the Tequila inside is subpar, reminiscent of artificial sweetener.

If you are after the bottle for display purposes, I suggest buying it on eBay.

However, if you desire a sweet pour, I recommend purchasing an inexpensive Tequila one and adding a sugar cube to achieve a better flavor and save money.

35. 1800

Crafted by Jose Cuervo, 1800 Tequila is a reliable brand with generally dependable releases, except for Reposado.

1800 Silver, in particular, is a versatile workhorse that excels in cocktails, Tequila shots, or casual drinking.

For bourbon drinkers looking to explore Tequila, 1800 Añejo is an excellent option, with rich whiskey-like notes and an extremely affordable price tag.

1800 Milenio Extra Añejo, the brand’s top release, is an excellent alternative for those seeking an affordable Extra Añejo Tequila.

34. Milagro Tequila

Milagro Tequila is owned by Williams Grant & Sons, a Scotland-based company that also owns Glenfiddich, and its Tequila releases are reasonably priced and offer good value for money.

However, they can be harsh and lack refinement, making them better suited for Tequila cocktails, where their bold character can enhance the drink.

Out of their range, the Añejo is the best and worth considering if you are looking for an affordable Tequila with some aging and complexity.

33. Lunazul

Lunazul Tequila may not be the smoothest option out there.

Still, it is an excellent choice for anyone seeking an affordable 100% agave Tequila that won’t leave them a headache the following day.

Of the Lunazul releases, the Blanco is especially notable for its ability to mix well in cocktails like Margaritas.

While it may not be the fanciest bottle on the shelf, Lunazul is a solid option that won’t break the bank.

32. Casa Dragones Tequila

Casa Dragones is skilled at PR, marketing, and packaging, but Tequila lacks quality.

The price is incredibly high for the quality of the Tequila, which is produced using a diffuser and has an artificial flavor that is unappealing to true Tequila enthusiasts.

Casa Dragones Blanco may have an attractive bottle, but the liquid inside is low-quality and not worth the steep price.

Former MTV’s Robert Pittman owns this brand.

31. Avion Tequila

Avion Tequila gained notoriety after its appearance on HBO’s Entourage a few years ago.

However, the brand’s releases are generally not very good as they are often packed with artificial flavors.

Despite this, the Avion Reserva 44 stands out as a superior offering, making it one of the best Extra Añejo Tequilas on the market, all at a competitive price.

30. Cabo Wabo

The launch of Cabo Wabo in the 90s by Sammy Hagar of Van Halen made it the first celebrity Tequila brand.

Although the Blanco may not be the smoothest, it drinks well on ice and is an excellent cocktail mixer.

The other releases are generally more acceptable.

However, Sammy Hagar is no longer associated with the brand as he sold it to Campari, a Milan-based company.

29. Teremana Tequila

Teremana Tequila is a brand that has gained popularity as “The Rock’s Tequila,” thanks to its co-founder and celebrity face, Dwayne Johnson.

What sets Teremana apart from other celebrity-owned brands is its distillery in Jalisco, Mexico, showing a more significant commitment to the project.

While Teremana Blanco may not be the smoothest option, it is highly recommended for cocktails and shots.

It offers decent value for the price, making it a good option for those on a budget.

The brand was created by Ken Austin, who previously sold Avion Tequila to Paris-bassed Pernod Ricard.

28. Patron Tequila

Thanks to its strong marketing and iconic packaging, Patron Tequila has become a household name.

However, the quality of the product is not always in line with its premium pricing.

While some of their offerings, like the Patron 10 Años, are of excellent quality, others, like the Patron Silver, are ordinary despite the hefty price tag.

Unfortunately, their Reposado is one of their weakest offerings.

It has an unpleasant aftertaste and lacks the smoothness and complexity of other high-end Reposados.

27. Gran Centenario

It may come as a surprise, but Gran Centenario is a brand under the ownership of Jose Cuervo.

While their Plata expression may hint slightly at Lifesaver candy flavor, it is still enjoyable when served over ice and offers excellent value for its affordable price.

However, what truly stands out is the Gran Centenario Añejo release.

This Tequila is a gem and one of the best affordable options, offering flavor notes that are unexpected in a Tequila of its price range.

Overall, Gran Centenario offers great options for those seeking quality Tequilas at a reasonable price.

26. Casamigos Tequila

Casamigos Tequila is a good brand that offers good options for those new to Tequila, although not as great as some may claim.

It’s clear that these releases have been enhanced with additives as they have unusual flavors, but they are still smooth and reasonably priced.

Of all the Casamigos options, the Reposado is my personal favorite.

It’s an excellent choice for bourbon enthusiasts looking to explore the world of Tequila.

It’s worth noting that a few years ago, George Clooney and Rande Gerber sold their stakes in the company, in case you were curious.

25. Riazul Tequila

Riazul is a newer Tequila brand that hasn’t gained much popularity yet, but it’s worth checking out.

What sets it apart from most Tequila brands is that it’s still Mexican-owned.

Of their releases, I would suggest trying Riazul Añejo, which is affordable and quite good.

It’s often compared to the famous Don Julio 1942 but at a lower price.

24. Espolon

Espolon Tequila is known for its colorful labels featuring Mexican artwork, making it a great addition to your cabinet.

But beyond the packaging, the brand’s releases are also worth considering, offering good quality for the price.

In particular, Espolon Blanco stands out as one of the best options for Tequila cocktails, while the other expressions also provide good value for the money.

Espolon is owned by Campari and produced at the same distillery as Cabo Wabo.

You may find some similarities in flavor profile, but Espolon is generally more affordable.

23. Herradura Tequila

Herradura Tequila has a rich history, dating back to 1870, and was once considered one of the best Tequilas.

However, since its acquisition by Brown-Forman (Jack Daniel’s) in 2008, the quality has declined due to the adoption of industrial production methods.

Despite this, Herradura still produces some decent Tequilas at reasonable prices, although some enthusiasts claim it’s not the same anymore.

One standout release is the Seleccion Suprema, a high-end Extra Añejo with a price tag to match.

However, it’s worth picking up a bottle if you can find it at a Duty-Free Shop.

22. El Mayor

El Mayor, a brand owned by US-based Luxco, may not be as popular as other Tequila brands, but it offers excellent value for money.

Luxco is better known for its bourbons, such as Ezra Brooks and Rebel.

Out of their range, I highly recommend El Mayor Añejo, which is surprisingly affordable, making it one of the best options for cheap Añejo Tequilas.

This Tequila is an excellent choice for those who want to enjoy a Tequila Old Fashioned or sip it on the rocks.

21. Olmeca Altos

Olmeca Altos Tequila was created by two British bartenders working alongside a Tequila expert to pursue the perfect pour for cocktails.

The result is quite good, with Altos Plata being a versatile mixer that can also be enjoyed neat.

Plus, it’s attractively priced, making it a no-brainer choice.

Similarly, Altos Reposado is also highly recommendable as one of the best affordable Reposados on the market.

20. Partida

Partida is a reputable Tequila brand owned by a Dutch company.

Unlike some foreign-owned brands, Partida prides itself on its additive-free production process, resulting in an authentic, high-quality product.

All three essential releases (Blanco, Reposado, and Añejo) are well-crafted and reasonably priced, making them an excellent value for those seeking a quality Tequila experience.

19. Tres Agaves

Tres Agaves Tequila is an excellent choice for those looking for an organic and affordable option.

Crafted using 100% certified organic agave, these Tequilas have a unique taste perfect for bargain hunters and people who prefer organic foods.

One of the best offerings from this brand is Tres Agaves Blanco, a solid and affordable Blanco under $30.

It is perfect for making Ranch Water or any other homemade cocktail.

The Tequila has a smooth taste with notes of agave and citrus that blend perfectly in any drink.

18. Don Julio Tequila

While Don Julio may not be at the top of the list, it is still a highly respected and well-known brand in the Tequila world.

Despite being mass-produced and widely distributed, Don Julio continues to provide reliable and enjoyable Tequilas, especially their Don Julio 70 and 1942 releases.

However, since being acquired by UK-based Diageo (Johnnie Walker), the brand may have lost some of its former character and uniqueness.

Nonetheless, Don Julio remains a solid choice for those looking for quality Tequila, which is still widely available worldwide.

17. Tromba

Tromba is a brand that stands out among newer Tequila brands, created by Marco Cedano, who worked for 17 years at Don Julio before launching Tromba.

One of the best things about Tromba is that their Tequilas are pretty smooth, making them an easy choice for those new to Tequila.

The Tromba Blanco, in particular, is highly recommended for those who want a no-fuss, easy-drinking Tequila.

The Tromba Reposado is another highly recommended option, as it has a bit more flavor than the Blanco, yet it maintains the smoothness that characterizes the brand.

16. Volcan de Mi Tierra

Volcan Tequila was recently acquired by Louis Vuitton Moet Hennessy, a company that specializes in luxury goods.

The brand has been repackaged and rebranded, and its Tequilas have become quite popular among Tequila aficionados.

The Volcan de Mi Tierra Blanco is my favorite release from this brand.

It’s a smooth and easy-to-drink Tequila that also has a distinct flavor.

The Tequila is made using Champagne yeasts in the fermentation process, which gives it a unique taste.

The bottle is also cool-looking, which makes it a great addition to any collection.

The Volcan de Mi Tierra Blanco is a good sip and reasonably priced.

15. Codigo 1530

Codigo 1530 Tequila, also known as George Strait’s Tequila, is a brand that is free of additives and known for its quality.

The releases are pretty good but also a bit too pricey.

The Extra Añejo, in particular, is a fantastic pour with a rich and complex flavor profile.

However, the high price tag may make it difficult for some consumers to justify purchasing it regularly.

Recently, the company was acquired by Pernod Ricard, a renowned French conglomerate.

It remains to be seen if they will maintain the brand’s integrity by refraining from using additives and avoiding mass production.

14. Dulce Vida Tequila

Dulce Vida is a Tequila brand based in Austin, Texas, and crafted in Jalisco, Mexico.

Their releases offer quality and affordability, making them great value plays for Tequila enthusiasts.

One of the most exceptional pours from this brand is the Dulce Vida Extra Añejo Lone Star Edition.

This 100-proof Tequila is aged in Garrison Brothers Bourbon barrels, which gives it a unique flavor profile.

Despite the high proof, it is remarkably smooth, and the sweet bourbon notes make it a treat for the taste buds.

Overall, Dulce Vida is a brand that stands out for its commitment to quality, and its Extra Añejo Lone Star Edition is a must-try for any Tequila lover looking for something special at a reasonable price.

13. Cimarron

Cimarron Tequila is a hidden gem crafted by one of Mexico’s top distillers, Enrique Fonseca.

The brand is crafted at the same distillery as some of the best Tequilas, such as Don Fulano and Tears of Llorona, considered the best Extra Añejo Tequila.

What makes Cimarron stand out is its quality and the fact that it is free of additives, providing an authentic and pure Tequila experience.

Despite its high quality, Cimarron is surprisingly affordable, making it an excellent option for those looking for a good Tequila without breaking the bank.

If you’re a Tequila aficionado, Cimarron is a brand worth exploring.

12. El Tequileño

Tequileño has a rich history, as it has been crafted at the same distillery for over 60 years.

A Mexican family owns it, which is free of additives, ensuring the flavors are authentic.

Tequileño Reposado stands out from the brand, offering a smooth taste with a depth of flavor that rivals much pricier options.

At under $30, it is also one of the best-value Reposados on the market.

Overall, Tequila Tequileño’s range of Tequilas is all solid options for those seeking quality Tequila at an affordable price point.

11. Arette

Arette is a notable Tequila brand with a rich history that traces back to the early 1900s, and it remains in the hands of the founding family, which is often a positive sign for the quality of the Tequila.

The Orendain brothers, Eduardo and Jaime, representing the fifth generation of Tequila producers, own the distillery producing Arette.

Arette offers a range of solid Tequila releases with no weak links.

However, the Arette Gran Reserva Extra Añejo stands out above all.

This extraordinary Tequila is bottled at a high proof but delivers a smooth and balanced taste.

It’s interesting to note that the brand name Arette is inspired by the one-eyed horse of Humberto Mariles, a Mexican equestrian who won two gold medals in the London 1948 Olympic Games.

10. Casa Noble

It’s worth noting that Casa Noble is also notable for being certified organic, using only 100% blue Weber agave, and using sustainable production methods.

Pepe Hermosillo’s expertise and Carlos Santana’s involvement have helped make Casa Noble a respected and well-regarded Tequila brand.

Casa Noble Single Barrel Extra Añejo is the best Extra Añejo under $100, making the best bottle from this brand.

9. 123 Organic

123 Organic was created by David Ravandi, who previously owned Casa Noble.

This shows that the world of Tequila is relatively small and interconnected.

123 Organic is considered the best organic Tequila brand in the market and offers a solid range of offerings across the board.

The 123 Organic Blanco is regarded as one of the best Blancos under $50, while the Reposado is considered one of the best Reposados under $50.

This makes them an excellent alternative for those who want to drink in style without breaking the bank.

Overall, 123 Organic provides a quality drinking experience while being environmentally conscious.

8. Don Fulano

In addition to the Blanco, Don Fulano offers a range of solid Tequilas across the board, including a Reposado, Añejo, and Extra Añejo.

They are all crafted with attention to detail and without additives, producing a pure and authentic Tequila experience.

It is not as well-known as other brands but has gained recognition among Tequila enthusiasts and experts for its quality, authenticity, and uniqueness.

7. Suerte

Suerte Tequila is a brand that truly stands out in terms of quality and value.

Founded by Laurence Spiewak and Lance Sokol, two entrepreneurs from Colorado, the brand produces exceptional Tequilas that are crafted 90 minutes away from Guadalajara, Mexico.

Despite being a relatively new brand, Suerte has quickly made a name in the industry thanks to its outstanding offerings.

Despite their affordable price point, Suerte’s offerings taste much better than you would expect from similarly priced tequilas.

In particular, the Suerte Extra Añejo is a standout pour, as it has been aged in Jack Daniel’s barrels, giving it a rich baking spice note that is truly exceptional.

6. El Tesoro/Tapatio/Ocho

The Camarena family produces el Tesoro Tequila at the La Alteña Distillery in Jalisco, Mexico.

Founded in 1937 by Don Felipe Camarena, the distillery has become renowned for producing some of the best Tequilas in the world.

All El Tesoro’s releases are top-notch, with no weak links in the lineup.

It’s hard to recommend just one, as they are all excellent in their own right.

When you see the NOM 1139 on the label, you can rest assured that you’re getting a high-quality Mexican Tequila crafted by Carlos Camarena, one of the most respected master distillers in the industry.

3. G4/Terralta/Volans

It’s important to note that El Pandillo is one of the best Tequila distilleries in Mexico and one of the most innovative.

Felipe Camarena is known for his experimentation and use of traditional methods, such as using a tahona (a large stone wheel) to crush the agave, which results in a more complex and flavorful Tequila.

G4 Blanco is an excellent example of the quality that can be achieved with these methods.

It has won numerous awards and accolades, including the Best Blanco Tequila at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition.

In addition to G4, Terralta, and Volans are highly regarded Tequila brands showcasing Felipe Camarena’s expertise and commitment to quality.

2. 7 Leguas

Named after the horse of the legendary Mexican revolutionary Pancho Villa, Siete Leguas (7 Leagues) is a distillery that recently celebrated its 70th anniversary in 2022.

An interesting fact about Siete Leguas is that Patron Tequila was produced at this distillery from 1989 to 2002 before they opened their distillery in Jalisco.

While Patron may have copied some of the production methods of 7 Leguas, they did not copy the recipe, and many Tequila experts agree that Siete Leguas is better than Patron.

I find their Reposado to be my favorite, with their Blanco and Añejo ranking high in their respective categories, and their Extra Añejo is simply one of the best Tequilas available.

The fact that the distillery remains under the ownership of the founding family is a good sign of the brand’s commitment to quality and tradition.

1. Fortaleza

Saving the best for last, we have Fortaleza Tequila, which in Mexico is known as Tequila Los Abuelos due to legal reasons beyond this post’s scope.

Fortaleza is a brand established in 2006 by Guillermo Erickson, heir to the Sauza Tequila dynasty.

After Sauza was acquired by Beam Suntory (Jim Beam), Erickson decided to rebuild the old distillery and produce Tequila using traditional methods proven to be the best.

The result is the best Tequila brand with an incredible range of offerings, although surprisingly, an Extra Añejo is missing.

Fortaleza Añejo is the star of the brand and the best Añejo Tequila you can find.

However, the rest of the offerings are just as good, and it’s difficult to go wrong with them.

What makes a Good Tequila Brand?

• The use of additives plays a significant role, with the best brands avoiding such practices.
• The best Tequila brands are made from 100% agave, ensuring purity and quality.
• Quality brands use fully ripe agaves, providing a natural sweetness to the final product.
• Top Tequila producers steer clear of industrial methods, especially the use of a diffuser, as it strips agave of its natural sweetness.
• The source of water used in the production process greatly impacts the flavor of Tequila.
• Skilled distillers make a precise “Cut” during distillation, separating desirable and undesirable compounds for a superior final product.