The explosion of the tequila industry in the last 10 years has been well-documented, bestowing tequila lovers with both a blessing and a curse...there’s so much amazing tequila to choose from now, but the question is, what’s worth adding to your bar cart and what’s not?
To answer that question, we’ve rounded up some of the best, highly-rated tequilas on the market that deserve a spot on any tequila connoisseur’s shelf. These top-rated tequilas are just as comfortable in your favorite cocktail as they are sipped neat.
Get ready to bookmark some bottles, because these are the best tequilas to buy right now.
Hands down, our favorite slept-on tequila that no one’s talking about (yet) is Tres Agaves—especially the Reposado. This 100% additive-free, certified organic tequila is made from single-sourced blue agave and aged in repurposed Kentucky bourbon barrels for nine months, imparting hints of citrus, spice and baked tropical fruits. The tequila is exceptional for the price point, making this a must-have for casual and committed tequila fans alike. Try it in a margarita with spicy shrimp tacos this Taco Tuesday and thank us later.
Launched earlier this year by actor Matthew McConaughey and wife Camila Alves, Pantalones Tequila is the latest celebrity tequila to arrive on the scene. With a laid-back, fun-loving brand aesthetic that included promo images of the couple sin pantalones, the spirits world was skeptical if this new tequila could deliver on taste and value. As it turns out, this tequila is more than just alright (alright, alright). It’s absolutely delicious—and, as one ABC guest noted in their 5-star review of the añejo on our website, it “tastes better than a $200 tequila.”
The aforementioned añejo is their stand-out varietal. It’s a sweet dance of vanilla, butterscotch and brown sugar with a super comfortable, well-worn, velvety finish. The blanco is also worth picking up with notes of cooked agave, honey and a comforting hint of citrus.
For a new brand, Pantalones already supports a lengthy list of charitable causes, so you can also feel good while sipping good!
Another phenomenal tequila that’s still flying under the radar is El Tequileño (it calls itself “Mexico’s best kept secret” for a reason). It’s a family-owned distillery in Jalisco, Mexico that makes a number of fine tequilas, but our favorite is the Reposado Gran Reserva. This bottle has an impressive list of accolades, and it’s easy to see why. Aged for a minimum of eight months in American Oak and blended with 18-month añejo tequila, this reposado is just a perfectly balanced tequila with true character. You’ll get incredible flavors of light oak, vanilla, spice, toffee and macadamia nuts.
Bring a bottle of this to your next get-together with friends and don’t be surprised if you pour every last drop.
Most are probably familiar with this tequila, but if you’re wondering if it’s worth it for the price point, the answer is a resounding YES. Certified organic, estate grown and aged in French Oak barrels, this gorgeous tequila ticks all the boxes. Their añejo is aged for two years, imparting more flavor and depth than your typical añejo. It delivers rich flavors of toasted oak, butterscotch, vanilla, caramel and smoke that’ll keep you going back for another sip.
Whatever you do, don’t mix this one – it's too good to dilute.
For those seeking a tequila that breaks the mold, Tequila Ocho is a must-try. The reposado offers one of the most unique and flavorful tasting experiences we’ve ever had, sending us on a taste journey from rich flavors of coffee, white pepper and plum to hints of bitter almond, toffee and crème brûlée.
Tasting notes are, of course, different to everyone based on one's unique body chemistry, so who knows what else you might pick up on? Give it a try and find out.
If you’re a sucker for interesting bottle design, this one has likely caught your eye before as you’ve browsed the tequila aisle. But we know that pretty packaging isn’t everything; the juice inside has to dazzle, too. Luckily, this one will taste good in your margarita AND look killer on your spirits shelf. Whether you’re reaching for the blanco, reposado or añejo, you can’t go wrong with any of Espolòn’s tequilas.
The blanco is a perfect addition to a ranch water cocktail (just tequila, lime and Topo Chico), adding clean notes of pepper, vanilla bean, grilled pineapple and spice. The reposado is balanced enough to enjoy in a cocktail or on its own (maybe with a splash of triple sec or lime), but the añejo is definitely best served chilled and neat. It’s got subtle notes of caramel, vanilla, dried fruits and chocolate with a wonderfully balanced, velvety mouthfeel.
The next time this artsy bottle catches your eye, don’t check out without one!
When you see the lucky horseshoe, you know you’re in for a tasty tequila. Herradura is one of the most respected names in spirits, but have you tried all the unique varietals this tequila powerhouse has to offer?
If you know and love Herradura’s blanco, reposado and añejo, be sure to pick up a bottle of Herradura Legend, a special añejo release with intense flavors of toasted oak, dried fruit, citrus, vanilla and caramel with notes of sweet spice and agave. This sleek, dark bottle is an ideal gift for any host or hostess. It’s a little pricier than a typical bottle, but so worth it for the elegant box and complex tequila.
For the real die-hard Herradura fan, the ultra-premium Selección Suprema Extra Añejo is an unequaled birthday, retirement or graduation gift. It’s aged for 49 months in American White Oak barrels for a robust tasting profile of toasted agave and oak, vanilla, spiced pecans and a hint of orange peel. The finish is dreamy and buttery smooth with an inviting aftertaste that feels like a warm hug.
