Last Updated on: 17th May 2024, 05:26 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 the top Mexican Tequilas with our guide, co-created with Tequila expert Neil Coleman and shaped by customer feedback.
Discover the unique stories of each bottle, tracing from agave fields to glass, showcasing distinct flavors.
We blend traditional and modern tastes to spotlight Mexico's finest Tequilas.
Written by: J Highland
Choosing the Best Mexican Tequila
Budget-friendly Blanco:
- El Jimador: Mexico's best-selling tequila, bold agave flavor with a spicy kick. Great for margaritas.
Exceptional Blanco:
- Fuenteseca Cosecha 2018: Unique flavor profile with cooked agave, earthy hints, brine, and black pepper. Smooth finish.
Premium Blanco for Sipping:
- Fortaleza Blanco: Treasured tequila, perfect balance of sweetness and heat. Complex flavor profile with olive, agave, fruit, and black pepper.
Affordable Blanco with Depth:
- Cimarron Blanco: Crafted by renowned distiller, rich agave aroma with pepper and cinnamon. Full-bodied taste with baking spices and earthy agave.
Unique Reposado:
- Volans Reposado: Single barrel tequila, light and inviting aroma with agave, vanilla, fruit, and oak. Creamy palate with roasted pineapple, caramel, and earthy tones.
Affordable Reposado with Unique Twist:
- Suerte Reposado: Aged in Jack Daniel's barrels, rich whiskey-like character. Balanced aroma of agave with vanilla, oak, and caramel. Full-bodied taste with agave, caramel, cinnamon, and black pepper.
Budget-friendly Reposado Gem:
- Tequileño Reposado: Surprisingly good quality, bold agave flavor with cinnamon, clove, and oak spice.
Añejo Championing Agave:
- Fortaleza Añejo: Prioritizes rich agave flavor even after aging. Balanced Añejo with a touch of heat.
Adventurous Añejo:
- T1 Estelar Añejo: Aged in Scotch barrels, intriguing flavors for the curious drinker. Blend of Scotch-like notes with dark chocolate and agave sweetness.
Budget-friendly Añejo:
- Arette Añejo: Traditionally crafted, surprisingly affordable. Balanced aroma of sweet caramel and agave. Agave-forward taste with subtle oak and caramel.
Pioneering Cristalino:
- Don Julio 70: Exceptionally smooth, with notes of vanilla, oak, and caramel. Dangerously smooth and perfect for sipping neat.
Extra Añejo for Savoring:
- Tears of Llorona: Stands out in the premium category, complex experience with smoky oak, sweetness, and spice.
Budget-friendly Extra Añejo:
- San Matias Extra Añejo: Easy-drinking character, great for those new to Extra Añejo tequilas. Sweetness with notes of caramel, vanilla, oak, and aged leather.
Top Organic Blanco:
- 123 Organic Blanco: Flavorful agave profile with subtle black pepper kick. Rich with agave, laced with sugarcane, pepper, and banana-vanilla notes.
Budget-friendly Organic Blanco:
- Tres Agaves Blanco: Remarkable quality at an exceptional price point. Agave shines with citrus and peppery spice.
High Proof Blanco (Easy to Drink):
- Terralta Blanco 110: Surprisingly smooth, rich agave taste with intriguing mineral hints.
Bold Blanco for Margaritas:
- Tapatio 110: Packs a punch but smooth and refreshing. Balanced flavors with sweetness from agave, lime, mint, and orange.
Quick Look at the Best Mexican Tequilas
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
Jimador Blanco - Mexico's Best Selling Tequila
Looking for a budget-friendly tequila for your next margarita? El Jimador, the top-selling tequila in Mexico, might be your pick!
Made with 100% blue agave, El Jimador offers a bold agave flavor with a spicy black pepper kick. It's priced around 300 pesos (USD $17) at WalMart Mexico, making it an attractive option for mixing cocktails.
While El Jimador might not be the smoothest tequila for sipping neat, its robust character shines in classic cocktails like margaritas and palomas, states tequila expert Neil Coleman.
Fuenteseca Cosecha: A Blanco Tequila with Distinction
Crafted in Jalisco, Mexico, Fuenteseca Cosecha 2018 stands out from other Blanco Tequilas with its unique flavor profile.
This 100% agave tequila boasts cooked agave notes with earthy hints, brine, and a touch of black pepper. Expect a full-bodied and oily texture, followed by a burst of agave and rich minerals. Subtle hints of green olive, mango, and papaya add complexity.
The smooth finish lingers with minimal heat, accented by vanilla and black pepper. While pricier than some at over $100, Fuenteseca Cosecha 2018 offers a truly exceptional Blanco tequila experience for discerning drinkers.
Fortaleza Blanco: A Treasured Tequila Experience
Fortaleza Blanco is a coveted tequila prized for its authentic taste and limited availability.
This 100% agave tequila offers a unique aroma of green olives, cooked agave, citrus, and mint. On the palate, it boasts a rich and oily texture with flavors of olive, agave sweetness, ripe fruit, and a hint of black pepper. The finish is long and warming, with lingering notes of pepper, anise, and agave.
Fortaleza Blanco is a favorite among tequila enthusiasts for its perfect balance of sweetness and heat, making it an exceptional sipping tequila. While harder to find due to its popularity, it remains a true expression of high-quality Mexican tequila.
Cimarron Blanco: Budget-Friendly Tequila with Hidden Depths
Crafted by renowned distiller Enrique Fonseca, Cimarron Blanco punches above its weight in the affordable tequila category.
This 100% agave tequila boasts a rich agave aroma with hints of pepper and cinnamon, once the initial alcohol note subsides. The taste delivers a satisfying full-bodied experience with baking spices, earthy agave, and a subtle citrus note. The finish is long and warming, with a touch of black pepper.
Cimarron Blanco offers exceptional value, exceeding expectations for its price point. It's a great choice for those seeking an authentic, additive-free tequila experience without breaking the bank.
Volans Reposado: Single Barrel Tequila Excellence
Volans Reposado takes a unique approach to Reposado tequila, utilizing only the contents of a single barrel. This allows distillers to handpick the finest barrels, potentially resulting in a superior taste experience.
Volans offers a light and inviting aroma with hints of agave, vanilla, fruit, and subtle oak. The palate is creamy and agave-forward, with notes of roasted pineapple, caramel, and earthy tones. The finish is warm and pleasant, with lingering dried fruit.
This unique tequila showcases the distinct character of cooked agave with subtle barrel influence. Crafted by the El Pandillo Distillery, known for its reputable G4 and Terralta brands, Volans Reposado is a must-try for Reposado tequila enthusiasts seeking an outstanding finish.
Suerte Reposado: A Unique Twist on Tequila with Jack Daniel's Influence
Suerte Reposado offers a distinctive tequila experience, aged for seven months in Jack Daniel's barrels. This unique aging process adds a rich, whiskey-like character to the spirit.
On the nose, Suerte Reposado presents a balanced aroma of agave with hints of vanilla, oak, and caramel. The taste is full-bodied and agave-forward, complimented by flavors of caramel, cinnamon, and a touch of black pepper. The finish is long and warming, lingering with rich baking spices.
This innovative tequila provides excellent value, offering a unique taste profile at an affordable price point. For those seeking a departure from traditional Reposado flavors, Suerte Reposado is a great choice, potentially rivaling some premium bottles for under $50.
Tequileño Reposado: A Budget-Friendly Reposado Gem
Don't let the price fool you! Tequileño Reposado delivers a surprising quality tequila experience.
This Reposado boasts a rich aroma of agave, apple, oak, vanilla, and a touch of alcohol. The flavor profile is bold with notes of agave, cinnamon, clove, and subtle oak spice. The finish is long and warm, lingering with citrus and mild oak.
Made with 100% agave and free of additives or artificial sweeteners, Tequileño Reposado is a top choice for budget-minded tequila enthusiasts. It offers exceptional value and is a great introduction to Reposado tequilas.
Fortaleza Añejo: A Tequila Añejo Championing Agave
Fortaleza Añejo sets itself apart in the Añejo category by prioritizing the rich agave flavor, even after aging in barrels.
The aroma entices with notes of caramel, vanilla, oak, and roasted agave. The taste is smooth and luxurious, with a buttery texture and the star of the show: bold agave. The finish lingers pleasantly with hints of agave, pineapple, caramel, and oak.
This balanced Añejo offers a touch of heat, potentially appealing to bourbon drinkers who enjoy the familiar notes of caramel and vanilla alongside the sweetness of blue agave. Fortaleza Añejo is a truly satisfying creation, solidifying its position as a top contender in the Añejo category.
T1 Estelar Añejo: A Scotch-Kissed Tequila Adventure
T1 Estelar Añejo embarks on a distinctive path, aging in exceptional Scotch barrels. This unique process yields a tequila unlike any other, boasting intriguing flavors for the curious drinker.
The aroma presents a fascinating blend of Scotch-like notes intertwined with a base of agave. The taste takes a surprising turn, offering whisky flavors alongside hints of dark chocolate and the inherent sweetness of agave. The finish lingers with agave, oak, and a touch of peppery spice.
For under $50, T1 Estelar Añejo is a top choice for those seeking an adventure in Añejo tequila. The impressive smoothness and unique flavor profile, achieved through Scotch barrel aging, set it apart. Free of additives, this tequila caters to those seeking a pure experience.
Pair it with a bold Cuban cigar for a truly unforgettable exploration, potentially rivaling even the most esteemed Añejo tequilas.
Arette Añejo: A Budget-Friendly Añejo Gem
Arette Añejo defies expectations, offering a traditionally crafted tequila experience at a surprisingly affordable price.
This Añejo boasts a balanced aroma of sweet caramel and agave. The taste is agave-forward, complimented by subtle oak and a hint of caramel. The smooth, medium-length finish is free of any harsh burn or alcohol taste, concluding with a gentle peppery touch.
Arette Añejo stands out for its exceptional quality at its price point. Unlike some budget tequilas, it avoids additives, allowing the pure agave flavor to shine with subtle oak and caramel notes. Incredibly smooth and lacking harshness, the finish offers a pleasant peppery linger.
This Añejo is a great choice for value-conscious tequila enthusiasts seeking a traditionally crafted experience. As a bonus, Arette remains one of the few distilleries still under Mexican ownership.
Don Julio 70: The Pioneering Cristalino Tequila
Don Julio 70 holds the distinction of being the first Cristalino tequila to ever hit the market, and it remains a frontrunner in the category.
This Cristalino offers a luxurious aroma of floral scents, honey, blue agave, and vanilla. The taste is exceptionally smooth, with notes of vanilla, oak, and caramel, complemented by a subtle touch of agave. The finish is velvety smooth, lingering with vanilla, oak, and a hint of black pepper, all without any unpleasant burn.
Don Julio 70 achieves its signature smoothness through a special charcoal filtration process. While this may result in a less prominent agave flavor compared to traditional tequilas, it's balanced by the introduction of vanilla, oak, and gentle spice notes.
Dangerously smooth and undeniably premium, Don Julio 70 is perfect for sipping neat or on the rocks. For the ultimate chilled experience, don't hesitate to serve it cold - the high alcohol content ensures it won't freeze.
Maestro Dobel: A Smooth Tequila Winning Over Young Mexico
Maestro Dobel has taken Mexico by storm, particularly among younger drinkers, thanks to its smooth yet rich flavor profile.
Lemongrass, vanilla, agave, and oak dance in the aroma, with a touch of warmth. The smooth taste features agave leading the way, joined by vanilla, oak, and a peppery hint. The finish lingers with warmth, oak, pepper, and a touch of sweetness.
It strikes a well-rounded balance between sweet agave flavors, oaky undertones, and a hint of peppery spice. Enjoy it neat to appreciate the full flavor profile, or add ice to tone down the pepper for a more approachable experience.
Tears of Llorona: A Crown Jewel in Extra Añejo Tequila
Tears of Llorona stands out as a top contender in the premium tequila category, offering an exceptional and complex experience.
Deep color hints at Tears of Llorona's aged complexity. Five years in diverse casks yield a light, easy-sipping tequila. Smoky oak mingles with sweetness and spice, a symphony for savoring.
This tequila is bottled at a higher 86 proof, providing a slight yet noticeable extra kick without sacrificing smoothness. Tears of Llorona is a truly outstanding Extra Añejo expression, solidifying its place among the best tequilas hailing from Jalisco, Mexico.
San Matias Extra Añejo: A Budget-Friendly Extra Añejo Discovery
For around $50, San Matias Extra Añejo offers a surprising introduction to the world of Extra Añejo tequilas.
This tequila opens up with aromas of agave, cinnamon, oak, and ripe fruit after a moment of breathing. The taste is medium-bodied, with a smooth and sweet initial sip followed by notes of caramel, vanilla, oak, and aged leather. The finish lingers pleasantly with a touch of black pepper and lingering caramel sweetness.
While San Matias Extra Añejo may not boast an overpowering agave presence, its enjoyable sweetness and easy-drinking character make it a great choice for those new to Extra Añejo tequilas. At its price point, it delivers unexpected quality and surpasses expectations, making it a great budget-friendly option for exploring the aged tequila category.
123 Organic Blanco: A Top Choice for Organic Tequila Enthusiasts
123 Organic stands out for its diverse range of tequilas, all certified organic and boasting exceptional quality. From Blanco to Extra Añejo, they cater to the preferences of organic-conscious consumers.
123 Organic Blanco greets you with roasted agave, earthy hints, and whispers of banana and vanilla. The taste is pleasantly warm, rich with agave, and laced with sugarcane, pepper, and those same banana-vanilla notes. It finishes warm and satisfying, lingering with agave and cinnamon for a delightful aftertaste.
This Blanco tequila impresses with its flavorful agave profile, subtle black pepper kick, and delightful warmth, making it a pleasurable sipping experience. Priced around $50, it's considered one of the finest organic Blanco tequilas available, offering exceptional value.
Tres Agaves Blanco: A Budget-Friendly Blanco Gem
Tres Agaves Blanco strikes a perfect balance for price-conscious tequila drinkers, offering incredible value without sacrificing quality.
Enticing aroma - agave, orange zest, and floral hints - leads to a smooth, velvety taste. Agave shines, then transitions to citrus and peppery spice for a well-rounded profile. The short finish leaves a lingering sweetness.
Tres Agaves Blanco surpasses expectations, delivering remarkable quality at an exceptional price point. This organic tequila is free from additives, ensuring an authentic and pure expression of agave. With a taste profile that rivals premium Blancos, Tres Agaves is a valuable bottle hailing from Jalisco, Mexico.
Terralta Blanco 110: High Proof Tequila That's Easy to Drink
Terralta Blanco 110 takes a bold approach with its high proof bottling, yet delivers a surprisingly smooth and easy-drinking tequila experience.
Terralta starts warm (hint of alcohol), then reveals cooked agave, earthy minerals, and a touch of licorice. The creamy taste brings warmth, blue agave, olive, mint, cinnamon, and black pepper. The finish lingers with peppery agave, leaving a pleasant warmth.
Despite its high alcohol content, Terralta Blanco 110 surprises with its remarkable smoothness. The impressive flavor profile showcases rich agave taste with intriguing mineral hints. This tequila delivers a satisfying drinking experience with a pleasant lingering finish.
Reasonably priced at around $50, it's an attractive option for tequila enthusiasts seeking a unique high-proof option.
Tapatio 110 Tequila: Bold Flavor for Margaritas and More
Looking for a tequila that stands out in your next margarita? Tapatio 110 might be your perfect match. This blanco tequila packs a punch with its 110 proof, but don't let that scare you off. The initial alcohol gives way to a refreshing aroma of cooked agave, black pepper, and a hint of grapefruit.
On the palate, Tapatio 110 delivers a smooth and creamy mouthfeel with balanced flavors. Expect sweetness from blue agave, along with zesty notes of lime, mint, and orange. The finish is long and warming, leaving a lingering agave taste.
Tapatio 110's versatility makes it a great addition to any home bar. Enjoy it neat on the rocks for a full flavor experience, or use it to create bold and flavorful margaritas.
Selection Criteria
My Tequila selections are based on the following:
- Assessment: I thoroughly tested these Tequilas gathered customer and patron feedback and was assisted by Tequila expert Neil Coleman.
- Value: I provide reasonably priced options, steering clear of excessive costs.
- Ingredients: I prioritize additive-free Tequilas in my curation.
- Reputation: I exclude Tequilas from brands with less than stellar reputations.
How to Choose a Good Mexican Tequila?
When venturing into Tequila, selecting the right bottle can be as rich and complex as the drink itself.
Based on expert guidance from Neil Coleman and extensive customer feedback, here's a guide to help you make an informed choice:
Understanding Tequila Types
- Blanco (White) or Silver Tequila: Unaged and bottled after distillation, Blanco Tequilas like 'Fuenteseca Cosecha' are known for their pure agave flavor. Ideal for those who appreciate a raw, powerful tequila taste.
- Reposado (Rested) Tequila: Aged in oak barrels for two months to a year, Reposados such as 'Volans Single Barrel' offer a balance between the agave and wood flavors. This type is suitable for those who enjoy a smoother, subtly complex taste.
- Añejo (Aged) Tequila: Aged between one to three years, Añejos like 'Fortaleza Añejo' have a deeper color and more complex flavors due to prolonged wood exposure. They're great for enthusiasts seeking a richer, more nuanced profile.
- Extra Añejo (Extra Aged) Tequila: Such as 'Tears of Llorona', is aged for over three years, offering an even more sophisticated flavor profile for the connoisseur.
- Cristalino Tequila: A newer category, Cristalinos like 'Don Julio 70' are aged and then filtered to remove color, offering a unique balance of aged and fresh characteristics.
Key Features to Look For
- Flavor Profile: Choose based on your preference for sweetness, earthiness, or spiciness. For instance, a Blanco will typically be more direct and spicy, while an Añejo will be smoother and sweeter.
- Smoothness: Quality tequilas should be smooth with a rich blue agave flavor and free from harsh or odd tasting notes.
- Price vs. Quality: While premium tequilas like 'Tears of Llorona' can be expensive, there are affordable yet high-quality options like 'Cimarron Blanco' and 'Tequileño Reposado'.
- Organic Options: For eco-conscious consumers, organic tequilas like '123 Organic Blanco' offer a pure experience with minimal environmental impact.
- High-Proof Options: For a stronger kick, high-proof tequilas like 'Terralta 110' offer a bold flavor experience.