The best tequila is carefully distilled from the heart of blue agave plants, making for a bold flavor palette that compliments a wide range of cocktails. Each bottle embodies the rich heritage and dedication of master distillers who have perfected the art over generations. From smooth and velvety reposados to bold and complex añejos, our collection offers an exquisite range of flavors that cater to both the discerning connoisseur and those new to the world of tequila.
Alcohol, of course, is far from good for you, but pure tequila is considered a “healthier” option compared to some other liquors due to its relatively low sugar content and nutritional makeup. Misleading headlines claiming tequila can improve your health are medically unproven, but many doctors agree that occasionally indulging in quality tequila is OK for individuals in good health.
Just make sure to grab a healthy snack on the side! A recent study found that booze could actually help people shed extra pounds — as long as you’re nosing on nuts and other healthy bar snacks. Scientists found that high-protein foods soak up alcohol without leading to pot bellies and love handles. The more you know, right?
As all tequilas are not created equal, when looking for the best tequilas you want to focus on agave content, flavor profile, and how they’re produced. StudyFinds visited 10 of the leading expert websites to see which tequilas were rated the highest. Our list is ranked based on the most-recommended tequilas across these sites. Salud!
The List: Best Tequila, According to Master Taste Testers
1. Fortaleza Blanco
Produced in the heart of Tequila, Mexico, Fortaleza Blanco Tequila packs a quality punch with notes of citrus, olives, and black pepper. “Among agave experts, Fortaleza is one of the most revered brands in tequila. The distillery is steeped in a rich history, tracing its lineage all the way back to Don Cenobio, who was the first to export tequila to the United States,” writes Insider. “Since the founding of Fortaleza, they have maintained many traditional practices, like open-air fermentation, stone rolling with a tehona, and cooking the agave in brick ovens.”
The Fortaleza Blanco is also extra-proof with 40 percent ABV, making it a great pick for any celebration.
“Needless to say, this is one of the more complex tequilas on our list — making it one that aficionados will undoubtedly appreciate,” ads Rolling Stone. “A nice touch: the hand-blown glass bottle, which is topped with a hand-painted agave piña and vintage-inspired label.”
2. Don Julio 1942
If you enjoy a side of luxury with your tequila on the rocks, Don Julio 1942 is known as one of the most highly rated tequilas on the scene. “Before filling its tall, tapered bottle, this iconic, Don Julio 1942 añejo rests for two and a half years in American white-oak barrels. It’s made with agave that’s been cooked in a brick oven, roller-milled, and distilled with deep, mineral well water in a stainless steel pot still with a copper coil,” explains Liquor. “This mix of old and modern gear, and of course, those casks, yields a smooth and flowery potion with a caramel-and-vanilla flavor, along with a salt-and-spice finish.”
While Don Julio is a hugely successful tequila company, the company is also commended for its charitable efforts, with the The Don Julio Fund pledging $1 million to help local communities in Mexico.
“This variety of the famous brand earned its moniker for the year that founder Don Julio González started making his spirits. 1942 is known for its tall, brown bottle, which might be confused for wine or champagne at first glance, along with its rich flavor of vanilla and oak,” mentions Tasting Table.
3. Casamigos Blanco
You may be skeptical of celebrity-founded tequila, is it really worth the hype? Whether you’re a fan of actor and co-founder George Clooney or not, tequila aficionados say Casamigos is a safe bet.
“One of the smoothest, most natural tasting tequilas on our list, Casamigos is made in the Jalisco highlands from 100% agave,” says Rolling Stone. “Each batch is distilled for a minimum of two months in stainless steel barrels, and delivers a nice mix of sweet agave, light citrus and just a hint of vanilla.”
Due to its smooth and approachable flavor, Casamigos makes for a great tequila to buy if you’re just getting into drinking the spirit.
“Casamigos Blanco is all about being super classy and refined without trying too hard. This small batch tequila is made with Blue Weber agave and delivers hints of citrus, vanilla, and sweet agave with a long smooth finish,” adds Delish.
4. Tequila Ocho Plata
If you’re looking for an agave-centric tequila that shines through in margaritas but doesn’t overpower, Tequila Ocho Plata is a top choice. “As the winner of the Best of Class Silver/Gold (unaged) Tequila award, Ocho Plata bested 110 other tequilas to take home. Developed by third-generation tequilero Carlos Camarena and industry legend Tomas Estes, this tequila is made from premium overripe agaves in Jalisco, Mexico. Complex with a hint of its home terroir, it exhibits both mineral and fruit flavors,” says Forbes.
The spirit is full and complex with notes of grass and earthiness. “The first brand of tequila to designate both the year produced and the field from which the agave was taken, Tequila Ocho’s unaged expression is a popular among bartenders from all over when it comes to making the classic margarita,” adds GQ.
5. Herradura Silver
Herradura Silver is ranked as the best overall tequila according to Delish. “With hints of vanilla and citrus that blend with the distinct flavor of sweet agave, this tequila packs a punch with no lingering aftertaste. According to reviewers, it even tastes better the longer it sits out.”
“This tequila has one of the bolder flavor profiles you will find, yet it retains the smoothness that defines great tequilas,” writes The Spruce Eats. It won’t get lost in the most flavorful cocktails and works particularly well with fresh lime juice in a margarita. Herradura also won’t leave you cringing after a straight shot of tequila. Quite simply, this is great tequila and one of the better deals in its class.”
GQ adds: “Herradura Blanco tequila is barrel-aged for 45 days—which goes beyond the industry standard for blanco tequilas—giving subtle oak and vanilla notes, which mesh well with Cointreau or agave syrup.”
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Note: This article was not paid for nor sponsored. StudyFinds is not connected to nor partnered with any of the brands mentioned and receives no compensation for its recommendations. This is an updated version of a pos first published November 8, 2022.
