My Bartender
Tequila’s having a moment, and with so many brands vying for the spotlight, we at MyBartender decided it was time to update our definitive Top 50 list. How did we do it? We blended two powerful forces: quality, as judged by tequila’s sharpest palates, and popularity, straight from the hearts of our passionate followers. We polled our community—hundreds of you chimed in with favorites from Don Julio to Kirkland—then cross-checked those picks against the expertise of our staff and influencers like Long Island Lou, Tequila Jay Baer, Tequila Matchmaker, and Luiz Fernandes (Luifern), whose tasting notes and rankings shaped our quality lens. The result? A list that’s equal parts craftsmanship and crowd appeal, spotlighting additive-free artisanal gems alongside big-name sippers.
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Will everyone agree? Nope—rankings are a bar fight waiting to happen, and we’re ready for the lovers and haters alike. This list could spark debate, but that’s life in the tequila lane. This isn’t just our list—it’s yours, refined with a nod to the pros. So grab a glass, dive in, and see where your favorites land!
Feel free to praise or trash this list in the comments below 🤣. If we missed a favorite of yours let us know!
#50 – Jose Cuervo
Jose Cuervo is the biggest name in tequila, credited with helping popularize the spirit worldwide. Founded in 1795 and produced at NOM 1122, it offers a wide range—from budget-friendly mixtos to premium 100% agave tequilas. While its low-end products are often criticized by purists, the Tradicional line (blanco and reposado) and Reserva de la Familia extra añejo show off Cuervo’s legacy and craftsmanship. Tradicional is smooth, clean, and great for cocktails, while Reserva is rich and complex. Jose Cuervo remains a household name, and despite mixed reviews, its top-tier expressions prove the brand can still impress serious tequila drinkers.
#49 – Maestro Dobel
Maestro Dobel is a premium tequila brand known for innovation and polished style. Produced at NOM 1122 in Jalisco, it was one of the first to popularize cristalino tequila—a clear, filtered añejo with the smoothness of aged tequila and the look of a blanco. The brand offers a wide range, including Diamante (cristalino), reposado, añejo, and limited-edition extra añejos. Each expression is crafted using traditional and modern techniques, with a focus on balance and refinement. Maestro Dobel appeals to drinkers looking for a silky, elevated sipping experience that bridges classic tequila craftsmanship with modern luxury.
#48 – Sauza
Sauza is one of the oldest tequila brands, founded in 1873, and is known worldwide for its long history and wide availability. Produced at NOM 1102 in Tequila, Jalisco, it’s a mass-market brand with both mixto and 100% agave offerings. The standout in the lineup is the Sauza 3 Generaciones series, which includes blanco, reposado, and añejo expressions made with 100% blue agave and triple distilled for smoothness. While the core Sauza line is mostly for mixing, 3 Generaciones has earned respect for its clean, approachable flavor. It’s a gateway brand with legacy appeal and decent quality at a fair price.
#47 – Hussong’s
Hussong’s is a tequila brand with historic roots and a smooth, easy-drinking style. Named after the famous Hussong’s Cantina in Ensenada—said to be the birthplace of the margarita—the brand aims to capture the spirit of classic Baja California. Produced at NOM 1141, Hussong’s offers a Platinum Blanco and a Reposado, both made with 100% blue Weber agave and no additives. The blanco is clean and peppery, while the reposado brings in mellow oak and light spice. It’s a respectable, straightforward tequila that appeals to casual sippers looking for tradition, simplicity, and smooth flavor in every pour.
#46 – Cabo Wabo
Cabo Wabo was founded by rock legend Sammy Hagar in the 1990s and quickly became a popular tequila in the U.S. Produced at NOM 1467 in Jalisco, it’s known for its smooth, approachable flavor and solid quality across its lineup. The blanco is clean with a touch of pepper, while the reposado and añejo add sweet oak, vanilla, and spice. Cabo Wabo may not be a purist’s pick, but it consistently performs well in blind tastings and consumer polls. With rock ‘n’ roll roots and a crowd-pleasing taste, it’s a fun, reliable tequila for sipping or mixing.
#45 – Kirkland (Costco)
Kirkland Signature Tequila, sold at Costco, surprises many with its quality-to-price ratio. Produced at reputable distilleries like NOM 1472 (for the silver and reposado), it’s made with 100% blue Weber agave and follows traditional production methods. The silver is crisp and clean, while the reposado adds soft oak and vanilla notes, making both ideal for mixing or sipping. Though the branding is minimal, the tequila inside rivals bottles twice the price. Kirkland’s tequila has earned a loyal following among bargain hunters and casual drinkers alike, proving that good tequila doesn’t have to come with a fancy label or high price tag.
#44 – Olmeca Altos
Olmeca Altos is a bartender favorite known for delivering high-quality, 100% agave tequila at a very reasonable price. Produced at NOM 1111 in the Highlands of Jalisco, it’s crafted using traditional methods like tahona wheel extraction and slow cooking in brick ovens. The result is a fresh, agave-forward flavor perfect for cocktails. The blanco is bright and peppery, while the reposado and añejo bring in light oak and vanilla notes without overpowering the agave. Altos is also committed to sustainability and fair labor. Its balance of quality, value, and versatility makes it a go-to tequila for pros and casual drinkers alike.
#43 – Cazadores
Cazadores is a legacy tequila brand with deep roots in Arandas, Jalisco. Founded in 1922 and produced at NOM 1487, it’s known for its traditional production methods, including steam-cooked agave and natural fermentation. Cazadores offers a full lineup—blanco, reposado, añejo, and extra añejo—with a flavor profile that leans smooth, herbal, and slightly citrusy. The reposado is a standout, aged in American oak barrels for a mellow, approachable taste. While it’s mass-produced today, Cazadores remains a dependable tequila with strong ties to its heritage. It’s great for mixing or casual sipping, offering quality and tradition at a fair price.
#42 – Espolòn
Espolòn is a widely loved tequila brand that offers solid quality at an affordable price. Produced at NOM 1440 in the Highlands of Jalisco, it’s known for its bold, clean agave flavor and striking label art inspired by Mexican history and culture. Espolòn’s core lineup includes blanco, reposado, and añejo expressions, all made with 100% blue Weber agave and no additives. The blanco is especially popular for cocktails, thanks to its crisp, peppery profile. Espolòn punches above its price point, making it a favorite among bartenders and everyday drinkers who want reliable, authentic tequila without breaking the bank.
#41 – Clase Azul
Clase Azul is a luxury tequila brand instantly recognizable by its hand-painted ceramic decanters. Produced at NOM 1595 in Jalisco, it’s known for its sweet, smooth profile and upscale presentation. Clase Azul’s lineup includes reposado, añejo, and ultra-aged expressions, with the reposado being the flagship. While the brand uses some additives to achieve its dessert-like flavor, it remains popular among casual drinkers and collectors alike. Each bottle is handcrafted by Mexican artisans, adding cultural value to the experience. Though it’s a divisive choice among purists, Clase Azul is undeniably one of the most iconic sipping tequilas on the market.
#40 – 1800
1800 Tequila is a well-known brand with a long history, named after the year tequila was first aged in oak barrels. Produced at NOM 1140 in Jalisco, it’s owned by the same company behind Jose Cuervo. 1800 is known for its iconic trapezoid bottle and wide range of offerings—from the smooth silver to the rich reposado, añejo, and the high-end Milenio extra añejo. While its core lineup is accessible and great for cocktails, the premium expressions like 1800 Cristalino and Milenio stand out for their refined, sipping-quality flavor. It’s a dependable brand that blends tradition with broad appeal.
#39 – Tres Agaves
Tres Agaves is an organic tequila brand that delivers great value and quality, especially for cocktail lovers. Produced at NOM 1509 in the Highlands of Jalisco, it uses 100% blue Weber agave, slow-roasted and fermented naturally, with no additives. Tres Agaves offers blanco, reposado, and añejo expressions, each showcasing clean agave flavor with smooth finishes. The blanco is crisp and peppery—perfect for margaritas—while the aged versions add soft oak and vanilla notes. Known for its certified organic label and bartender-friendly pricing, Tres Agaves is a reliable pick for both mixing and sipping with a clean conscience.
#38 – Corralejo
Corralejo is a colorful and distinctive tequila brand with deep roots in Mexican history. Produced in Guanajuato at NOM 1368, it’s one of the few tequilas made outside of Jalisco. Known for its tall, vibrant bottles and traditional methods, Corralejo offers a full range: blanco, reposado, añejo, and extra añejo. The blanco is floral and peppery, while the aged versions are smooth with hints of oak, vanilla, and spice. The reposado, aged in three types of oak barrels, is especially popular. With its bold flavor and historic charm, Corralejo stands out as a flavorful, approachable tequila for any occasion.
#37 – Milagro
Milagro is a modern tequila brand known for its artistic bottles and balanced, accessible flavor. Produced at NOM 1559 in the Highlands of Jalisco, it’s made using a blend of traditional and modern techniques, including slow-roasting agave in brick ovens and a triple-distillation process for extra smoothness. Milagro offers a full range of expressions—blanco, reposado, añejo, and even a higher-end Select Barrel Reserve line aged in oak. The blanco is fresh and crisp, while the aged tequilas add layers of spice and vanilla. Milagro is a solid mid-tier option that works well for both sipping and mixing.
#36 – Casamigos
Casamigos was co-founded by George Clooney and Rande Gerber and quickly became one of the most recognizable tequila brands in the world. Produced at NOM 1609, it was originally created for private use before gaining commercial success. Casamigos offers smooth, easy-drinking expressions in blanco, reposado, and añejo, known for their vanilla and caramel notes. While the brand uses some additives for its signature taste, it remains a go-to for casual sippers who prefer a softer, sweeter profile. Loved for its celebrity backing, sleek design, and approachable flavor, Casamigos has helped bring tequila into the mainstream.
#35 – El Negocio
El Negocio is a newer premium tequila brand making waves for its smooth, refined profile and winemaking influence. Produced at Cascahuín (NOM 1123) in Jalisco, it blends old-school tequila-making methods with a modern twist. El Negocio uses 100% blue Weber agave, slow-cooked and double-distilled, then aged in French oak barrels that add a soft, rounded finish. The blanco is crisp and clean, while the reposado and añejo show notes of fruit, vanilla, and spice. With elegant packaging and a focus on quality, El Negocio is quickly becoming a favorite among tequila drinkers looking for something polished and distinctive.
#34 – Volcán De Mi Tierra
Volcán De Mi Tierra is a premium tequila brand born from a partnership between Moët Hennessy and a Mexican family with deep agave roots. Produced at NOM 1523 in the Lowlands of Jalisco, it blends modern refinement with traditional craftsmanship. The name means “Volcano of My Land,” referencing the nearby Volcán Tequila, whose rich volcanic soil nurtures the agave. Volcán offers both blanco and cristalino expressions, with a smooth, crisp taste that appeals to newer tequila drinkers and seasoned sippers alike. With sleek branding and balanced flavor, it bridges the gap between tradition and luxury in the tequila world.
#33 – Chamucos
Chamucos is a bold, small-batch tequila brand with a playful, devilish theme and serious quality behind it. Produced at NOM 1436 in the Highlands of Jalisco, it’s known for rich, complex flavors and traditional production methods. Chamucos offers a lineup of blanco, reposado, and añejo—all additive-free and crafted with slow-roasted agave and copper stills. The blanco is earthy and peppery, while the aged expressions bring smoky, oaky depth with hints of caramel and spice. The brand’s unique bottle art and mischievous branding make it stand out, but it’s the full-bodied, high-quality tequila inside that keeps fans coming back.
#32 – Tromba
Tromba is a modern, quality-focused tequila brand created by a team of Canadian entrepreneurs and a former Don Julio master distiller. Produced at NOM 1586 in the Highlands of Jalisco, Tromba uses traditional methods—like brick ovens and stainless steel fermentation—to make clean, additive-free tequila. The blanco is crisp and citrusy, while the reposado and añejo offer smooth layers of vanilla and spice without overpowering the agave. Tromba, meaning “sudden rainstorm” in Spanish, reflects the brand’s fresh, bold approach. It’s a bartender favorite and a great entry point for those seeking well-made, easy-to-drink tequila with a contemporary edge.
#31 – Herradura
Herradura is one of the oldest tequila brands, founded in 1870 and produced at the historic Casa Herradura distillery (NOM 1119) in Amatitán, Jalisco. It’s known for pioneering the reposado category and for its horseshoe logo, which symbolizes good luck. Herradura still uses traditional methods like clay ovens and fermentation with natural airborne yeast. The lineup includes a strong blanco, a well-balanced reposado, and an extra añejo that has won global awards. While some feel the brand’s quality softened after corporate acquisition, Herradura still delivers reliable, well-crafted tequila rooted in heritage. It’s a legacy brand with loyal fans worldwide.
#30 – Cantera Negra
Cantera Negra is a boutique tequila brand known for its smooth, refined flavor and elegant presentation. Made at NOM 1477 in Jalisco, the same distillery as Komil, it uses mature agave and traditional methods to produce additive-free tequila. The lineup includes a clean blanco, a rich reposado, a velvety añejo, and a luxurious extra añejo, each crafted with a focus on balance and depth. Cantera Negra’s aged expressions are especially praised for their dessert-like notes of caramel, vanilla, and spice. With its polished taste and upscale feel, it’s a great choice for sipping and special occasions.
#29 – Los Arango
Los Arango is a rustic, heritage-driven tequila brand named in honor of revolutionary hero Pancho Villa, whose full name was José Doroteo Arango. Produced at NOM 1479 in the heart of Guanajuato, this tequila captures the bold, earthy character of traditional Mexican spirits. It’s made with 100% blue Weber agave, using slow roasting and traditional distillation methods. The blanco is fresh and peppery, while the reposado and añejo bring warm oak, caramel, and spice. Los Arango offers a handcrafted feel and a robust flavor that appeals to tequila drinkers who appreciate authenticity, history, and a more rustic profile.
#28 – Santera
Santera is a lesser-known tequila brand that offers a smooth, approachable profile with a refined touch. Produced at NOM 1459 in the Highlands of Jalisco, Santera blends tradition and elegance, using volcanic-filtered water and slow-cooked agave to create a clean, additive-free spirit. The blanco is soft and floral with mild pepper notes, while the reposado and añejo are aged in American oak barrels, bringing subtle vanilla and spice. Santera is designed for sipping but also shines in premium cocktails. With understated branding and a balanced flavor, it’s a hidden gem for those seeking a smooth, easy-drinking tequila.
#27 – Calle 23
Calle 23 is a small-batch tequila brand known for its crisp, clean flavor and commitment to quality. Founded by biochemist Sophie Decobecq, it’s produced at NOM 1433 in the Highlands of Jalisco. Calle 23 uses traditional methods and fully mature agave to create additive-free tequilas that highlight finesse and balance. The blanco is fresh with peppery and citrus notes, while the reposado and añejo offer smooth oak character without overpowering the agave. It’s a favorite among bartenders for both sipping and mixing, making Calle 23 a hidden gem in the world of well-crafted, honest tequila.
#26 -Tequila Komos
Tequila Komos comes out of Jalisco, dreamed up by folks who wanted to shake up the game. They use French oak wine barrels for aging, giving it a twist. The blanco’s fresh with agave and a little fruit; the Reposado Rosa, aged in red wine barrels, has this cool pink hue and chocolatey notes; the Añejo Cristalino’s clear but rich; and the Extra Añejo’s a luxe, three-year-aged sipper. It’s at #26 because it’s fancy yet approachable—high-end quality with a unique spin. Komos is for when you want tequila that’s a little extra without being stuffy.
#25 – Vida
Vida is an organic tequila brand that flies under the radar but delivers solid quality. Produced at NOM 1414 in the Highlands of Jalisco, it’s certified organic and made using traditional methods, including brick oven cooking and copper pot distillation. Vida focuses on purity, offering clean, well-balanced expressions in blanco, reposado, and añejo. The blanco has crisp agave notes with hints of citrus, while the aged versions bring soft vanilla and spice. It’s a great sipping option that also works well in cocktails. For drinkers looking for an organic, additive-free tequila that’s both affordable and reliable, Vida is a sleeper hit.
#24 – Siempre
Siempre is a bold, small-batch tequila brand that’s built a strong following among adventurous drinkers. Produced at NOM 1414 in the Highlands of Jalisco, it’s known for using traditional methods and offering high-proof options that pack serious flavor. The lineup includes a blanco, reposado, and añejo, all made without additives and crafted for character. Siempre’s blanco is crisp and peppery, while the aged expressions offer rich oak and spice notes. With its eye-catching bottle design and intense taste, Siempre is a favorite for those who want something different, daring, and rooted in authentic tequila-making tradition.
#23 – Cimarron
Cimarron is a budget-friendly tequila that punches well above its price point. Made at the respected NOM 1146 (Tequileña), it’s known for being 100% additive-free and packed with grassy, peppery agave flavor. Cimarron is a favorite among bartenders for mixing, especially the high-proof blanco, which holds up well in cocktails. The brand also offers reposado and añejo expressions that maintain the same clean, no-nonsense profile. Despite its affordability, Cimarron stays true to traditional production methods, making it one of the best values in tequila. It’s the go-to choice when you want real quality without the premium price tag.
#22 – El Tequileño
El Tequileño is a historic tequila brand founded in 1959 and produced at the legendary La Guarreña distillery (NOM 1109) in Tequila, Jalisco. Known for its traditional methods and commitment to quality, the brand is additive-free and uses a mix of highland and lowland agave for a well-rounded flavor. Their lineup includes a crisp blanco, a smooth reposado, and richer aged expressions like the Reposado Gran Reserva. El Tequileño is a favorite among bartenders and tequila fans for its great value and balanced taste. With decades of heritage, it continues to earn respect for staying true to its roots.
#21 – Mijenta
Mijenta is a boutique tequila brand that combines traditional craftsmanship with a strong focus on sustainability. Made at NOM 1412 in the Highlands of Jalisco, Mijenta is additive-free and uses locally sourced ingredients and recycled materials for packaging. The brand was co-founded by tequila expert Ana Maria Romero Mena, who brings decades of knowledge to each bottle. Mijenta’s blanco is fresh and floral, while the reposado is aged in American and French oak for a smooth, layered taste. With its eco-conscious approach and standout quality, Mijenta appeals to modern drinkers who care about both flavor and footprint.
#20 – Lalo
Lalo is a clean, modern tequila brand that focuses on just one thing: exceptional blanco. Founded by Lalo González, grandson of Don Julio, the brand honors his family’s legacy while keeping things simple. Produced at NOM 1468, Lalo uses only mature agave, natural yeast, and deep well water—no additives, no aging, just pure tequila. The result is a bright, crisp blanco with fresh agave flavor and citrus notes. It’s bottled at 40% ABV and designed for sipping or clean cocktails. Lalo has quickly gained popularity among tequila purists and minimalists who want quality without the extra fluff.
#19 – Código 1530
Código 1530 is a luxury tequila brand that blends tradition with elegance. Backed by country star George Strait and made at NOM 1616 in Amatitán, Jalisco, it was originally a private reserve enjoyed only by a select few. Now available to the public, Código offers a full lineup—blanco, reposado, añejo, and an ultra-aged extra añejo called “Origen.” Each expression is made using mature agave, no additives, and aged in Napa Valley wine barrels, giving it a smooth, rich profile. Código 1530 stands out for its polished taste and high-end presentation, making it a favorite for upscale sipping.
#18 – Wild Common
Wild Common ranks at #18, a standout from El Arenal, Jalisco, crafted at the Cascahuin distillery by Master Distiller Salvador Rosales Trejo, known as “Chava.” Made with 100% Blue Weber agave, it’s verified additive-free, emphasizing sustainability and tradition. The blanco bursts with agave sweetness, citrus, and a mineral touch; the Still Strength Blanco amps it up at 100 proof for purists; and the reposado, aged 100 days in bourbon barrels, adds notes of pecans and honey. It’s at #18 for its bold, clean flavors and commitment to authentic production, making it a favorite for those who value unadulterated tequila.
#17 – Tears of Llorona
Tears of Llorona is an ultra-premium extra añejo tequila crafted by legendary master distiller Germán González. Produced in limited batches at NOM 1146, it’s aged for nearly five years in a mix of scotch, sherry, and cognac barrels, creating incredible complexity and depth. This tequila is rich, layered, and often compared to fine whiskey or brandy, making it a favorite among collectors and connoisseurs. The name comes from the Mexican legend “La Llorona,” reflecting the emotional intensity of the spirit. Tears of Llorona is not for mixing—it’s a sipping tequila meant to be savored slowly.
#16 – Cascahuin
Cascahuin is a family-owned distillery (NOM 1123) producing some of the most respected traditional tequilas in Mexico. Based in El Arenal, Jalisco, it focuses on slow, artisanal methods like brick oven cooking and open-air fermentation. Cascahuin offers a range of additive-free expressions, including a bright blanco, a buttery-smooth reposado, and an elegant añejo. The brand is known for its rich agave character and earthy depth. Cascahuin has earned praise from tequila purists for its honest, no-frills approach. Whether you’re sipping or mixing, this brand delivers a quality experience that reflects the heart of authentic tequila-making.
#15 – Volans
Volans is a standout craft tequila brand made at El Pandillo (NOM 1579), the same renowned distillery behind G4. Focused on small-batch, additive-free production, Volans showcases clean, crisp agave flavors with exceptional balance. The lineup includes a blanco, a high-proof still strength blanco, and a smooth reposado. Volans blends tradition with innovation, including rainwater and deep well water in its distillation process. The result is a tequila that’s both approachable and complex, favored by connoisseurs for its purity and attention to detail. With its rising reputation, Volans is quickly becoming a must-try for serious tequila fans.
#14 – Pasote
Pasote is a bold, additive-free tequila crafted at the respected La Cofradía distillery (NOM 1173) by master distiller Felipe Camarena. Known for its bright, clean agave flavor, Pasote delivers high-quality expressions in blanco, reposado, and añejo, all bottled at higher proof for richer taste. The name “Pasote” refers to Aztec warriors’ heroic spirit, reflected in both the branding and the tequila’s character. With traditional methods like brick ovens and copper pot stills, Pasote preserves the natural integrity of agave. It’s a top pick for enthusiasts who value purity, power, and craftsmanship in every sip.
#13 – Cazcanes
Cazcanes is a small-batch, artisanal tequila brand that has quickly earned respect among agave purists. Produced at NOM 1599, it’s known for bold, unfiltered flavor and an additive-free profile. The brand offers a standout blanco, high-proof expressions, and aged varieties that have won blind taste tests for their depth and balance. Cazcanes is rooted in honoring ancient traditions, including its name, which pays tribute to the Caxcan people of Mexico. Each bottle reflects a commitment to craft and authenticity, making it a rising star in the premium tequila scene for those seeking pure, expressive agave flavor.
#12 – Arette
Arette comes from a family setup in Jalisco, keeping things simple and real at the Tequila Orendain distillery. They’ve got a tight lineup: the blanco’s fresh with grassy agave and a citrus zip; the reposado picks up some oak for a smooth sip; and the añejo’s got a richer, rounded feel. There’s also cool stuff like Suave, a high-proof blanco with extra kick. It’s at #12 because it’s quality you don’t have to overpay for—straight-up tequila that’s honest and tasty. Arette’s perfect if you want something solid without all the hype.
#11 – Patrón
Patrón’s a big player from Jalisco, built on keeping things smooth and reliable. They mix roller mills with small batches for a solid lineup. The blanco’s clean with agave and a pepper kick; the reposado’s got a light oak touch; the añejo’s deep and velvety; then there’s Gran Patrón, a high-end range with stuff like Piedra extra añejo, and Roca Patrón, hand-crushed for bolder flavor. It’s at #11 because it’s a crowd-pleaser—consistent quality that works whether you’re mixing or sipping. Patrón’s the kind of brand you can count on, no matter which bottle you grab.
#10 – Don Julio
Don Julio’s a big name out of Jalisco, started by Don Julio González, who knew how to make tequila that lasts. The brand’s got a bunch of options: the blanco’s crisp with agave and citrus; the reposado’s smooth with oak; the añejo’s rich for sipping; plus the famous 1942, aged over two years with caramel and vanilla, and the ultra-rare Real, a pricey extra añejo with deep, complex vibes. It’s at #10 because it’s got quality locked down—consistent, smooth, and loved by tons of people. Don Julio’s the kind of tequila that’s always a safe bet, no matter what you pick.
#9 – ArteNOM
ArteNOM a cool project that picks standout tequilas from different Jalisco distilleries. It’s like a curated playlist—each bottle’s unique. The blanco’s fresh and agave-heavy, depending on the batch; the reposado’s got a nice oak balance; and the añejo brings richer, smoother vibes. No additives, just pure juice from small runs. It’s up here because it’s a quality grab-bag—every release shows off what different makers can do, and it’s always solid. ArteNOM’s perfect if you like switching things up but still want tequila that’s legit and tastes like the real thing.
#8 – Fuenteseca
Fuenteseca is an ultra-premium tequila brand crafted for serious collectors and connoisseurs. Produced at NOM 1146 (Tequileña) by master distiller Enrique Fonseca, it’s known for long-aged, extremely limited releases that showcase incredible depth and complexity. Fuenteseca tequilas often rest for 7 to 21 years in a mix of barrels—including American oak, French oak, and even used wine barrels—stored at varying altitudes for unique aging effects. Every bottle is additive-free and carefully distilled to highlight rich agave character alongside layers of oak, spice, and dried fruit. Fuenteseca isn’t for casual sipping—it’s a rare, luxurious experience for those who seek the extraordinary.
#7 – Don Fulano
Don Fulano is a family-owned tequila brand known for its depth, elegance, and consistency across all expressions. Made at the renowned NOM 1146 (Tequileña) by the Fonseca family, it combines traditional Highland agave with winemaking expertise from the family’s cognac background. Don Fulano is additive-free and distilled to proof, using both copper and stainless steel stills for balance. The lineup includes blanco, reposado, añejo, and extra añejo—each offering a complex, velvety profile with layers of agave, spice, and fruit. With multiple international awards and a loyal following, Don Fulano is one of the most refined and respected tequilas on the market.
#6 – Tapatio
Tapatio is a cult classic among tequila lovers, known for its bold, traditional flavor and honest, no-frills approach. Produced at La Alteña distillery (NOM 1139) by master distiller Carlos Camarena, it’s made using time-tested methods—brick oven roasting, roller mill extraction, and copper pot distillation. Tapatio is completely additive-free and offers a wide range of expressions, including blanco, reposado, añejo, and high-proof versions like the beloved Tapatio 110 blanco. It’s especially popular among bartenders for its versatility and big agave punch. Tapatio may not have flashy packaging, but what’s inside the bottle is authentic, flavorful, and seriously respected.
#5 – Siete Leguas
Siete Leguas is a historic tequila brand with deep roots and a reputation for bold, pure agave flavor. Produced at NOM 1120 in Atotonilco El Alto, it’s one of the few distilleries that still uses both tahona and roller mill extraction methods, blending the two for a unique profile. Named after the horse of Mexican revolutionary Pancho Villa, Siete Leguas is proudly traditional and completely additive-free. The blanco is rich and earthy, while the reposado and añejo offer deep, balanced aging without hiding the agave. Respected by purists, this brand helped launch Patrón and remains a symbol of quality and heritage.
#4 – Tequila Ocho
Tequila Ocho is a terroir-driven tequila that changed how people think about agave. Co-founded by Tomas Estes and master distiller Carlos Camarena, it’s made at NOM 1474 in the Highlands of Jalisco. What makes Ocho unique is its vintage and single-estate approach—each batch highlights agave from a specific field and year, similar to how fine wine is made. The blanco is known for its crisp, complex agave flavor, while the aged expressions remain agave-forward and balanced. Always additive-free, Tequila Ocho is a favorite among tequila enthusiasts for its transparency, craftsmanship, and one-of-a-kind tasting experience.
#3 – El Tesoro
El Tesoro is a traditional, additive-free tequila made at the legendary La Alteña distillery (NOM 1139) in the Highlands of Jalisco. Founded by Don Felipe Camarena, El Tesoro still follows the methods he perfected—slow-cooked agave, tahona crushing, open-air fermentation, and distilling to proof without dilution. The result is rich, earthy tequila with deep agave flavor and natural complexity. The lineup includes a bold blanco, smooth reposado, complex añejo, and even an extra añejo for serious sippers. El Tesoro is beloved by purists and bartenders alike for its honest, unfiltered taste and deep respect for tequila-making heritage.
#2 – G4
G4 is a bold, agave-forward tequila that has earned cult status among serious tequila fans. Made at the famed El Pandillo distillery (NOM 1579) by master distiller Felipe Camarena, G4 is known for its purity, balance, and commitment to tradition. The name stands for “Four Generations,” honoring the Camarena family’s long history in tequila-making. G4 uses a mix of spring water and rainwater, brick ovens, and copper stills, with absolutely no additives. The lineup includes a standard blanco, high-proof blanco, reposado, and añejo—each one showcasing intense agave character and a silky finish. It’s a must-try for tequila lovers who value craft over hype.
#1 – Fortaleza
Fortaleza is widely considered the gold standard of traditional tequila. Produced at NOM 1493 in the town of Tequila by the Sauza family’s fifth generation, it’s known for doing things the old-school way—brick ovens, tahona stone crushing, wooden fermentation tanks, and copper stills. The result is rich, complex tequila with deep agave flavor and no additives. The lineup includes a blanco, still-strength blanco, reposado, and añejo, all praised for their authenticity and balance. Fortaleza bottles are hand-blown and reflect the brand’s artisanal approach. Beloved by purists and bartenders alike, Fortaleza is the benchmark for what great tequila should taste like.
Which are your favorite Tequilas?
Crafting this Top 50 Tequila Brands list was a journey we couldn’t have done alone. We started by polling our Tequila Times followers—hundreds of you shared your go-to bottles, from Don Julio to Kirkland.
Then, we layered in quality insights from some of tequila’s sharpest minds: Long Island Lou (check her out at longislandloutequila.com), Tequila Jay Baer (tequilajaybaer.com), Tequila Matchmaker (tequilamatchmaker.com), and Luiz Fernandes. Their expertise helped us balance crowd favorites with artisanal gems, landing us at a list that’s equal parts passion and precision.
But let’s be real—tequila rankings are a bar brawl waiting to happen. Fortaleza at #1 might have purists cheering, while Jose Cuervo at #50 could ruffle feathers. That’s the beauty of it: everyone’s got a favorite, and we want to hear yours!
Did we miss a hidden gem? Is your top pick ranked too low? Drop your thoughts in the comments—we’re ready for the debate. This list isn’t just ours; it’s a conversation starter for all tequila lovers. So pour a shot, share your take, and let’s keep the party going!
Tequila FAQs & Key Info
What Is a NOM Number?
NOM stands for Norma Oficial Mexicana, a unique number assigned by the Mexican government to each certified tequila distillery. It tells you exactly where the tequila was made. You’ll find it on every bottle—tequilas with the same NOM number come from the same distillery, even if the brands are different. It’s a helpful tool for spotting quality producers and learning who’s behind your favorite bottle.
What Does “Additive-Free” Mean?
Tequilas labeled as 100% agave can legally include additives—like sweeteners, flavorings, and coloring—without disclosing it, as long as it’s under 1% of the bottle. Additive-free tequila means none of these extras are used, so the flavor comes purely from agave, fermentation, and aging. Many of the top-rated tequilas on this list are proudly additive-free, offering a more authentic and natural taste.
How Is Tequila Made?
Tequila is made from blue Weber agave plants, grown mostly in Jalisco, Mexico. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Harvesting – Mature agave (usually 6–8 years old) is harvested and the heart (piña) is cooked.
- Cooking – Agave is cooked in brick ovens or autoclaves to convert starches into sugars.
- Crushing – Cooked agave is crushed to extract juice, often with a roller mill or a tahona (stone wheel).
- Fermentation – The juice ferments in open or closed tanks using natural or added yeast.
- Distillation – The fermented liquid is distilled, usually twice, in copper or stainless steel stills.
- Aging – Depending on the style, tequila may rest in stainless steel or oak barrels (reposado, añejo, etc.).
- Bottling – Tequila is filtered and bottled—sometimes with water added to adjust proof.
What Are the Different Types of Tequila?
- Blanco (Silver): Unaged or rested for less than 2 months. Pure agave flavor.
- Reposado: Aged 2–12 months in oak barrels. Smoother with light oak notes.
- Añejo: Aged 1–3 years. Richer and more complex.
- Extra Añejo: Aged over 3 years. Deep, luxurious flavor—often sipped like fine whiskey.
- Cristalino: Aged tequila filtered to remove color. Smooth, often slightly sweet.
Are There Rules or Restrictions for Tequila?
Yes. Real tequila must:
- Be made in Mexico—mostly in Jalisco, but also in limited regions of a few other states.
- Use only 100% blue Weber agave (or at least 51% in mixtos).
- Follow strict production standards set by the CRT (Tequila Regulatory Council).
Who Is the Camarena Family?
The Camarena family is one of tequila’s most respected dynasties. For generations, they’ve produced traditional, high-quality tequila at iconic distilleries like La Alteña (home to El Tesoro and Tapatio) and El Pandillo (where G4 and Pasote are made). Known for their commitment to heritage and craftsmanship, the Camarenas are behind some of the most beloved additive-free brands in the world.
