“Refreshing, sweet, fruity” is how the taste of real tequila is described. It is considered a native Mexican drink. However, the alcohol produced by the natives bore little resemblance to the modern brand. Both in flavor and strength, it was similar to beer.
The first authentic Mexican vodka was produced by the Spaniards who conquered the Yucatán in the 16th century. They obtained more than 50% alcohol, similar to their favorite rum, which was part of the sailors’ diet because it preserved well during long voyages.
The product of Spanish distillation was called mezcal by the local Aztecs. For almost 100 years, it was kept out of public view and distributed only in certain regions. In 1600, tequila began to gain global recognition. Today, its lovers live in Asia, Africa, Australia, Canada, and Europe. But the largest customers are Americans (87% of exports go to the USA).
Up to 1,000 tequila brands are known. We will explain how they differ, how to identify the original drink, and which brands are best.
The best tequila brands are an exceptional fusion of tradition, craftsmanship, and flavor, captivating connoisseurs worldwide. Originating from the heart of Mexico, these exquisite spirits embody the rich culture and history of their homeland. With a variety of flavors and qualities, ranging from smooth sipping tequila to bold, strong tequila, you can find the perfect bottle for every palate. Experiencing the best tequila brands is a fascinating journey into the colorful world of Mexican heritage and a testament to the art of distilling this enigmatic agave-based beverage.
Calle 23
Notes of figs and hot pepper distinguish Calle 23 from other high-end brands. But that’s not the only distinguishing feature. Whether the tequila is sold as joven or aged for 1.5 years, the agave piñas are always roasted in an oven for exactly 15 hours. This highlights the unique composition and concentration of sugars that form the brand’s personality.
The logo for each tequila type features the number 23, indicating double distillation and three types of drinks, depending on the aging period.
Casa Noble
This drink is produced in one of the oldest haciendas where agave is grown and tequila is distilled. Production began in the early 18th century, and today the distillery supplies the smoothest tequila. Time is valued here, and the utmost attention is paid to its creation. Only the most mature plants (10-14 years old) are used; triple distillation, not double distillation, is used. They also take their time with bottling. For example, the “anejo” variety is aged for about five years before being sold. Another distinctive feature of the drink is that it is aged in French white oak barrels, which impart a distinct flavor unlike that of other tequilas.
The alcoholic beverage’s logo is notable for its simplicity: the brand name is set in elegant serif type, underscoring its prominence and the need for no additional attention.
Corralejo
This tequila brand reflects the spirit of Mexico, from the place of production to the bottles. The distillery is located in the state of Guanajuato, on the estate where the country’s famous priest and independence fighter, Miguel Hidalgo, lived. Among other things, he was passionate about tequila production. He conducted experiments to refine the distillation process. As a result, the best alcohol in the region was obtained. Today, this drink is made from 100% agave juice using 18th-century technology and bottled in unique glassware produced at the company’s glass factory. The spirits are then exported to 40 countries worldwide.
The tequila logo conveys the bright taste of the alcohol, while the image of agave plants emphasizes the natural composition.
Don Julio
An elite tequila created by Julio Gonzalez for his friends in 1942, when he was only 17 years old. The drink has a rich, full, and satisfying flavor of chocolate, dried fruit, and caramel. Tequila is handcrafted using proprietary methods developed and tested by the distillery owner. One of the amazing properties is that there is no hangover when consumed in moderation. Not surprisingly, by 1987, Don Julio tequila had become a world-renowned brand. After the creator’s death, ownership of the brand was transferred to Diageo Corporation. Despite its size, the new owner closely observes the nuances and traditions of preparation to ensure customers enjoy authentic tequila.
The logo captures the image of Don Julio, without whom the brand would not exist. The emblem emphasizes the brand’s ancient traditions and nobility, indicating that it was created by a native Mexican who knows his business.
El Jimador
Although El Jimador tequila appeared only at the end of the 20th century (1994), its producer has been working in the alcohol market for much longer (since 1870). Therefore, the brand is produced in accordance with all the ancient rules of local distilleries. The Reposado line has received the most awards.
The drink’s name is a tribute to the chimadores’ painstaking labor. Their skill and knowledge directly affect the quality of tequila. Carefully grown and well-maintained agave plants, harvested and cut in time, properly cleaned, all this is the result of the field workers’ hands.
The brand’s visual identity fully aligns with its name. Each bottle depicts a chador processing agave, wearing his trademark wide-brimmed hat. The letters of the inscription are soft and rounded, reminiscent of the delicate hands of an agave connoisseur.
El Tesoro
Modern tequila makers at El Tesoro are descendants of an ancient family of distillers who produced agave-based spirits in the 1800s. After the distillery was destroyed, they built a new one, La Altena, where the popular brand was born in the 1990s. Bringing the brand to the global market was handled by well-known promoters, then by Fortune Brands, which acquired it.
The logo for this tequila brand depicts a “tachón” grinding prepared piñas. This indicates the use of an ancient tool for agave processing and the brand’s premium nature.
Espolòn
The rich flavor of Espolon tequila is due to the long baking of the agave in ovens, which maximizes the release of sugars. The family-owned company takes the nuances of producing the elite drink very seriously. Over their 130-year history, they have developed their secrets for creating a unique brand.
The visual identity deserves special attention. The image in the logo is chosen based on the name “tequila,” which translates to “spur.” The image of a skeleton riding a rooster is familiar to locals who love the Day of the Dead. This holiday is one of the most favorite holidays in the country.
The rooster, a symbol of liberation, transports consumers back to the era of the struggle for independence from Spanish conquerors, a period deeply ingrained in the memory of Mexicans. Thus, tequila is imbued with the spirit of Mexico and its colorful atmosphere.
Herradura
The distinctive sign accompanying the company’s products is the lucky horseshoe (from the distillery’s Spanish name). The prominent emblem embossed on each bottle immediately draws attention to the elite drink. However, its success is due not only to the horseshoe but also to careful adherence to the original recipes.
The San Jose Del Refugio distillery does not use modern autoclaves, mills, or tanks in tequila production. Only brick kilns, natural multi-day fermentation in vats, and aging in oak barrels with the maximum recommended duration are used. This is why the drink has an authentic and original flavor – the invigorating taste of real tequila.
In addition to the usual varieties, such as Silver, the company produces special brands: Seleccion Suprema with rose-petal flavor, brandy Coleccion de la Casa, blended Ultra, and original Antigua, created according to the founder’s recipe for friends and relatives. The horseshoe and monogram on the bottle enhance the advantages of Herradura tequila.
Jose Cuervo
The premium segment of the tequila market accounts for 40% of the market. It has a very ancient production process. The land for the construction of the distillery was allocated to Jose Cuervo by order of the Spanish king in 1758. And for the excellent taste of the produced drinks, the son of the tequila received a license to produce and distribute tequila. This brand has pleased connoisseurs for more than 250 years. Interestingly, after the death of the founder’s grandson, the Cuervo family lost control of its distillery. However, the widow of the new owner, in her marriage to Jose’s descendant, restored justice.
Most of the secrets the owners do not reveal. But one factor contributing to tequila’s unique flavor is the aging process in barrels, which are charred to varying degrees.
The elegant inscription on the logo, apparently made from agave leaves, evokes the drink’s Spanish roots.
Ley 925 Azteca
It is a very expensive premium-class drink. The price of one bottle exceeds $200,000. This is due to the high-quality aged alcohol and the use of precious metals in the unique ribbed bottle design. The brand logo is made of platinum. A graceful dragon soaring over the mountains and spewing flames is a real work of art. The name suggests sterling Silver, underscoring the brand’s quality.
In just 30 years, the drink has reached such an elite level. Production of Ley 925 began in 1993, and the first bottle was sold at a high price in 2006.
Milagro
Milagro is the result of a collaboration between two young tequila makers who set out to create the best tequila possible. Their ambitious plan, which seemed unattainable, was a huge success. In the first year of sales, the partners realized a $15 million profit. Today, their tequila ranks among the best aged beverages.
The yeast’s unique composition gives the brand a distinctive flavor, complemented by aging in cognac barrels. Triple distillation imparts a softer flavor.
The logo of the young brand – a whimsical, magical font combined with the unusual color of the bottle – creates a mysterious and dreamy image, transporting the user to the world of dreams.
Ocho
The flavor of each series in this brand differs from that of subsequent series. Ocho works on the principle that each batch comes from a single ranch. The agave absorbs soil-specific compounds, giving the juice distinct nuances. This is why the bottle is labeled with not only the year but also the harvest location.
The Camarenos family manages the production, keeping ancient traditions alive. Tequila makers approach the processing with special care. Slow, long brewing is replaced by gradual fermentation, which allows the characteristic notes of each batch to emerge.
The number eight in the logo reflects the brand name, which translates to “eight.”
Olmeca Altos
Olmeca is smooth on the palate and versatile enough to please any connoisseur. Adhering to all requirements for producing authentic tequila ensures familiarity with the classic varieties. The Altos line is a premium agave-based spirit produced in the Los Altos region. Its main feature is the crushing of juicy bulbs with millstones made of volcanic rock.
The ancient hieroglyphs decorating the bottles deserve special attention. The Olmeca Altos logo, which distinguishes each bottle, depicts the head of a ruler of this civilization, which inhabited the region 900 years before Christ.
Partida
Among products rooted in ancient traditions, Partida seems relatively young. It appeared only 20 years ago. But perhaps that is why its young Blanco tequila stands out so much. The richness of shades, filled with citrus, cinnamon, and fruit, reveals a bright, incomparably beautiful “soul” in the drink, invigorating and energizing.
The new brand’s popularity is growing rapidly and may soon surpass that of other, better-known brands. The tequila emblem is distinctive. The eagle, Mexico’s national symbol, is depicted in an authentic style and symbolizes freedom and flight of fancy.
Patrón
Handmade vessels sealed with corks and crystal stoppers – this is how you start to get to know the elite alcohol of this Mexican brand. Production at the hacienda is environmentally friendly and waste-free. The owners have even learned to recycle waste from the main tequila production process.
Interestingly, the brand’s founder was a man from Los Angeles who made his first fortune selling hair products. John DeJoria’s decision to invest in tequila production was the realization of his dream. He set up the production of four lines of alcohol, each with its own nuances and unique flavor. As a result, the young brand (founded in 1989) is now one of the largest producers of Mexican vodka.
The bee in the Patrón logo underscores the significant effort that goes into producing the drink. After all, most processes are done manually.
Tapatio
The original 100% tequila Tapatio was produced in accordance with all the rules of Mexican distillation, using tahona stone ovens and copper apparatus. However, the drink is not lacking in personality. In addition to the brand’s classic flavor, this line features mint notes. The master tequila maker, Camarena from La Altena distillery, is responsible for the creation of these masterpieces.
The bottle’s emblem depicts a dance, conveying the positive mood tequila evokes.
Tres Cuatro Cinco
A unique brand of tequila consisting of a blend of batches with maximum aging. The name of the drink is not just a counting rhyme. Behind its magnificent, rich flavor is a special formula developed by several quillers. The blend comprises Extra Anejo varieties aged 3, 4, and 5 years, in a 3:4:3 ratio, with the 4-year-old spirit the most prominent. The use of such aged varieties is unique to tequila, as three-year aging is usually the limit. Blending aged varieties in precise quantities produces a distinctive alcoholic beverage that connoisseurs prize. This drink is truly unique: no more than 1,000 copies have been produced and are sold in exclusive crystal packaging.