Konnichi wa / Great Outdoors

Introduction

Tequila has become one of the most popular spirits around the world.

It is a distilled spirit made from the blue agave plant, primarily grown in the Mexican state of Jalisco.

Tequila comes in a variety of styles, from blanco to extra añejo, and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, from sipping it neat to mixing it into cocktails.

The tequila industry has seen an influx of celebrity endorsements in recent years, with stars such as George Clooney, Kendall Jenner, Michael Jordan, and Nick Jonas all launching their own tequila brands.

With so many tequila brands on the market, it can be difficult to decide which one to try.

In this article, we will explore the best-selling tequila brands in the United States, the different types of tequila, and the latest celebrity-endorsed tequila brands.

Watch this video on how tequila is made!

What is tequila?

Tequila is a type of alcohol that is made from the blue agave plant, which is primarily grown in the area surrounding the city of Tequila, 65 km (40 mi) northwest of Guadalajara, and in the highlands (Los Altos) of the central Mexican state of Jalisco.

Tequila is a type of mezcal, which is made from the cooked and crushed hearts of the agave plant.

The plant is known for its spiky leaves and tall, branching stem.

To make tequila, the leaves of the agave plant are stripped away, leaving the core, or "piña," which is then roasted, ground up, and mixed with water and yeast to create a fermented mash.

The resulting liquid is then distilled to create tequila.

What are the different types of tequila?

There are four main types of tequila:

Blanco tequila (or white tequila): This type of tequila is clear and is bottled immediately after distillation, or aged for less than two months in stainless steel tanks.

Joven tequila (or young tequila): This type of tequila is a blend of blanco tequila and a small amount of aged tequila. It is usually slightly golden in color and has a smoother taste than blanco tequila.

Reposado tequila (or rested tequila): This type of tequila is aged in oak barrels for at least two months, but less than a year. It has a golden color and a smoother, more complex flavor than blanco tequila.

Añejo tequila (or aged tequila): This type of tequila is aged in oak barrels for at least one year, but less than three years. It has a deep amber color and a complex, smooth taste.

There are also a few other types of tequila, such as extra añejo, which is aged for at least three years, and tequila Mixto, which is made with at least 51% blue agave and the rest from other sugars.

The Best Tequila Brands

There are many great brands of tequila to choose from, and the best one for you will depend on your personal taste and budget. Here are a few highly rated tequila brands that you may want to try:

Don Julio

Don Julio is a premium brand of tequila that has been carefully crafted in the highlands of Jalisco, Mexico for over 70 years.

It is made from 100% blue agave, which is harvested by hand and cooked in small brick ovens.

The cooked agave is then crushed using a traditional stone mill, and the juice is extracted and fermented with a proprietary strain of yeast.

The fermented liquid is then double distilled in small batches using copper pot stills to produce a smooth, refined tequila.

Don Julio offers a range of tequilas to suit different preferences, including a crisp and clean blanco, a smooth and slightly sweet reposado, and a rich and complex añejo.

Each bottle of Don Julio is hand-numbered, and the brand prides itself on its attention to detail and commitment to quality.

Whether you are a seasoned tequila connoisseur or new to the world of agave spirits, Don Julio is a brand that is sure to impress.

Patrón

Patron is a luxury brand of tequila that has become synonymous with high-quality and sophistication.

It is made using traditional methods that have been passed down for generations in the highlands of Jalisco, Mexico.

The process begins with the selection of only the finest blue agave plants, which are harvested by hand and cooked in small brick ovens.

The cooked agave is then crushed using a traditional stone mill, and the juice is extracted and fermented with a proprietary strain of yeast.

The fermented liquid is then double distilled in small batches using copper pot stills, which helps to produce a smooth and refined tequila.

Patron offers a range of tequilas to suit different preferences, including a crisp and clean blanco, a smooth and slightly sweet reposado, and a rich and complex añejo.

Each bottle of Patron is hand-numbered, and the brand prides itself on its attention to detail and commitment to quality.

Whether you are sipping it neat, mixing it in a cocktail, or savoring it as a shooter, Patron is a tequila that is sure to impress.

Casa Noble

Casa Noble is a premium brand of tequila that has been carefully crafted in the highlands of Jalisco, Mexico for over 20 years.

It is made from 100% blue agave, which is harvested by hand and cooked in small brick ovens.

The cooked agave is then crushed using a traditional stone mill, and the juice is extracted and fermented with a proprietary strain of yeast.

The fermented liquid is then triple distilled in small batches using copper pot stills to produce a smooth, refined tequila.

Casa Noble is known for its commitment to sustainability, and all of its agave is sourced from its own estate, where it is grown using organic farming methods.

The brand also uses recycled glass for its bottles and has a zero waste policy at its distillery.

Casa Noble offers a range of tequilas to suit different preferences, including a crisp and clean blanco, a smooth and slightly sweet reposado, and a rich and complex añejo.

Each bottle of Casa Noble is hand-numbered, and the brand prides itself on its attention to detail and commitment to quality.

Whether you are a seasoned tequila connoisseur or new to the world of agave spirits, Casa Noble is a brand that is sure to impress.

El Tesoro

El Tesoro is a premium tequila crafted in the Highlands of Jalisco, Mexico.

It is made from 100% blue agave and distilled using traditional methods passed down through generations.

The result is an exceptionally smooth spirit with delicate aromas of cooked agave, citrus fruits, and sweet spices.

On the palate you'll find notes of roasted pepper, caramelized sugar, and hints of oak that linger on the finish.

El Tesoro's unique flavor profile makes it perfect for sipping neat or mixing into your favorite cocktails.

Whether you're looking to enjoy a margarita or just savor some quality tequila on its own, El Tesoro will be sure to please even the most discerning palates!

Fortaleza

Fortaleza Tequila is a premium spirit made from 100% estate-grown blue agave in the highlands of Jalisco, Mexico.

It has a smooth and sweet taste with notes of cooked agave, citrus fruits, pepper, and herbs.

The tequila is aged for at least two years in American oak barrels to give it an extra layer of complexity.

Fortaleza's signature bottle shape was inspired by the clay jugs used to transport tequila during colonial times.

This award-winning tequila is perfect for sipping neat or mixing into your favorite margarita or other cocktail recipes.

Experience the rich flavor and history that comes with every sip of Fortaleza Tequila!

Herradura

Herradura is a premium tequila made in Mexico with a rich and complex flavor profile.

It is crafted using traditional methods that have been passed down through generations of master distillers, ensuring the highest quality spirit.

Herradura offers an array of unique expressions, including Blanco, Reposado, Añejo and Extra Añejo varieties.

The blanco expression has notes of citrus and green apple on the nose with subtle hints of pepper and agave sweetness on the palate.

The reposado variety has aromas of oak wood complemented by sweet vanilla flavors while its aged counterparts offer more intense flavors such as caramelized sugar, roasted nuts and dried fruits.

No matter which expression you choose to enjoy, Herradura will provide you with an unforgettable experience every time!

Clase Azul

Clase Azul is a premium tequila crafted in the highlands of Jalisco, Mexico.

It is made with 100% organic agave that has been slow cooked for 72 hours and distilled five times.

Clase Azul is then aged up to 8 months in handcrafted ceramic vessels, giving it a unique flavor profile unlike any other tequila.

With its sweet aromas of cooked agave and hints of oak, this smooth and full-bodied spirit will tantalize your taste buds with every sip.

Enjoy neat or on the rocks for an unforgettable experience!

Ultimately, the best tequila for you will depend on your personal preferences. It's a good idea to try a few different brands and styles to find the one that you like the best.

The Best-Selling Tequila Brands

The best-selling tequila brands are typically those that are widely available and appeal to a broad range of consumers. Some of the best-selling tequila brands include:

Jose Cuervo

Jose Cuervo is a premium tequila that has been crafted with care for over 200 years.

This iconic spirit is made from 100% blue agave, harvested in the highlands of Jalisco, Mexico and distilled to perfection.

Its smooth flavor profile features notes of citrus, pepper, and sweet caramel that make it perfect for sipping neat or mixing into classic cocktails like margaritas and palomas.

With its rich history and unique taste, Jose Cuervo will make any tequila drinker proud to raise their glass!

Sauza

Sauza is a premium tequila that has been crafted in Mexico for over 140 years that is now owned by Beam Suntory and includes the Justin Timberlake endorsed Sauza 901 line.

This award-winning tequila is made from 100% blue agave and distilled to perfection, giving it an exceptionally smooth taste.

Its flavor profile features notes of citrus, pepper, and oak with a hint of sweetness on the finish.

Sauza's signature blend makes it ideal for sipping neat or mixed into classic cocktails like margaritas and palomas.

Whether you're looking to enjoy a night out or just relax at home, Sauza Tequila will make any occasion more special.

1800

1800 Tequila is a premium spirit that has been crafted with care and expertise for a long time.

This tequila is made from 100% blue agave, giving it a smooth and rich flavor.

The aging process of 1800 Tequila creates an incredibly complex and balanced taste profile, making it perfect for sipping or mixing into your favorite cocktails.

With its unique blend of sweet, earthy notes and hints of spice, 1800 Tequila is sure to please even the most discerning tequila drinkers.

Whether you are looking for something special to enjoy on its own or as part of a delicious margarita or other cocktail recipe, 1800 Tequila will not disappoint!

Cabo Wabo

This brand was founded by rock musician Sammy Hagar and is known for its smooth, well-balanced tequilas.

Cabo Wabo tequila is an ultra-premium, 100% agave spirit from Mexico.

It has a smooth and mellow flavor that is perfect for sipping neat or in your favorite margarita.

The unique blend of flavors includes hints of citrus, pepper, vanilla and caramel.

Cabo Wabo tequila has been aged in American oak barrels to give it a rich and complex taste that will tantalize the palate.

Its bold aroma adds depth to any cocktail you create with it.

Whether you're looking for a classic margarita or something more creative, Cabo Wabo tequila is sure to make your drink stand out from the rest!

Herradura

Herradura is a premium tequila that has been crafted with passion and expertise for over 140 years.

The Herradura brand is known for its smooth, complex flavor profile that combines sweet agave notes with hints of oak, vanilla and spice.

It's the perfect choice for sipping neat or as part of your favorite margarita recipe.

With its signature golden-amber hue, Herradura will add an elegant touch to any cocktail hour.

Enjoy this exquisite tequila responsibly today!

Patron

Patron tequila is a premium spirit made from the finest 100% blue agave plants grown in the highlands of Jalisco, Mexico.

It's crafted with care and attention to detail by master distillers who have been perfecting their craft for generations.

The result is an exceptionally smooth and flavorful tequila that has become a favorite among connoisseurs around the world.

Patron's signature flavors include notes of citrus, spice, pepper, and oak that make it ideal for sipping neat or mixing into classic cocktails like margaritas and palomas.

Enjoy this top-shelf tequila responsibly!

It's worth noting that the best-selling tequila brands may vary depending on the market. For example, certain brands may be more popular in certain countries or regions.

The Best Ultra-Premium Tequila Brands

Ultra-premium tequila brands are known for producing high-quality, luxury tequilas that are made with the finest ingredients and production techniques.

Here are a few highly rated ultra premium tequila brands to consider:

Don Julio

This brand is known for producing smooth, high-quality tequilas that are aged for an extended period of time.

Its ultra-premium offerings include Don Julio 1942, which is aged for at least 2.5 years, and Don Julio Real, which is made from 100% blue agave that is at least 8 years old.

Casa Noble

This brand is known for using traditional production methods and high-quality ingredients to produce exceptional tequilas.

Its ultra-premium offerings include Casa Noble Crystal, which is aged for at least 3 years in French oak barrels, and Casa Noble Single Barrel, which is aged for at least 4 years in oak barrels.

El Tesoro

This brand prides itself on using 100% blue agave in its tequilas and aging them in oak barrels to give them a rich, complex flavor.

Its ultra-premium offerings include El Tesoro Paradiso, which is aged for at least 4 years in oak barrels, and El Tesoro Añejo, which is aged for at least 3 years in oak barrels.

Fortaleza

This brand uses traditional production techniques and grows its own agave plants, which are cooked in brick ovens and milled using a tahona wheel.

Its ultra-premium offering, Fortaleza Blanco, is made from agave plants that are at least 9 years old.

Herradura

This brand has been producing tequila since 1870 and is known for its commitment to quality.

Its ultra-premium offering, Herradura Selección Suprema, is aged for a minimum of 49 months and has a smooth, well-rounded flavor.

Ultra-premium tequilas can be more expensive than other tequila brands, but they are often worth the investment for their exceptional quality and flavor.

It's a good idea to try a few different brands and styles to find the one that you like the best.

The Best Celebrity-Owned or -Endorsed Tequila Brands

There are a number of latest celebrity owned or endorsed tequila brands on the market. Here are a few well-known celebrity tequila brands:

Casamigos: This brand was co-founded by George Clooney and Rande Gerber (husband of Cindy Crawford) and is known for producing high-quality, smooth tequilas.

D'USSÉ: This brand is owned by rapper Jay-Z and Bacardi, and is known for producing smooth, well-balanced tequilas.

DeLeón: This brand is owned by Sean Combs and is known for producing luxury tequilas.

Teremana: This brand is owned by actor Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson and is known for its smooth, easy-drinking tequilas.

Flecha Azul: This brand was co-founded by actor Mark Wahlberg and is known for producing high-quality, smooth tequilas.

Cincoro Tequila: This brand is owned by Michael Jordan and is the perfect blend of smoothness and complexity, delivering an unforgettable taste experience that will tantalize your senses.

It's worth noting that the quality of a celebrity-owned or endorsed tequila brand is not necessarily tied to the fame or success of the celebrity owner or endorser. As with any brand of tequila, it's a good idea to try a few different brands and styles to find the one that you like the best.