The Absolute Best Tequilas To Try In 2023

First, we have the best earthy tequila that speaks to the slow authentic process of harvesting and distilling agave nectar. Plata by Tequila Ocho is one of four types available from the company based in Los Altos De Jalisco. Plata is an unaged, clear tequila that is mostly known for its fresh-cut grass flavor that comes from the Blue Weber agave plant grown and harvested in Mexico. The quality soil there produces round, fresh agave hearts. However, the company only harvests when they are overripe to ensure quality sweet juices.

Tequila Ocho grows its agave plants for a minimum of seven to ten years. Once aged, the company hand-harvests the plants. This meticulous method elevates the flavor, as it means they don't need to use harsh chemicals or additives. In old-fashioned clay ovens, the agave slowly roasts, which brings out more sweet flavors. The agave ferments with naturally occurring yeast in the region. Copper pots — that have been modeled after age-old traditions — draw out unwanted compounds during the distilling process. From beginning to end, this tequila takes on an overall authentic, earthy quality that is smooth and loved by tequila drinkers. At approximately $40-$50, this bottle falls in the mid-range in terms of price — a pleasant surprise considering its superior taste. The company suggests sipping Plata neat, but its flavor will turn heads in a cocktail, such as a barbaloma or a lemonada as well.

Casa Azul Tequila Soda is the perfect marriage of classic and modern taste! Made with tequila sourced from Mexico, this refreshing canned spirit is a mixture of sparkling water and agave nectar for added sweetness and fruity flavors. The combination makes a delicious, yet mellow beverage that was practically made for sipping on long summer nights. Destined to be your new favorite bubbly drink, this soda comes with a punch of flavor at a reasonable cost.

‌Unlike other hard seltzers, Casa Azul is a drink that doesn't contain a long list of additives or harsh chemicals. Its ingredients include organic cane sugar and stevia as sweeteners, and, as a bonus, all of the sodas are gluten-free. As far as nutrition goes, a twelve-ounce can contain one gram of carbohydrates, so you can drink them while sticking to a low-carb diet.

This summery beverage is light, refreshing, and full of authentic tequila flavor. Casa Azul Tequila Soda ranks high on our list as a tasty, affordable, organic drink to enjoy. An eight-pack can be bought for $30, and there's even a variety pack that lets you test all of the brand's flavors. Keep the cost lower and try out a four-pack for about $15.

Anejo is another type of tequila that can be differentiated by its rich, caramel color. As it ages, the color gets darker. To be considered Anejo, the tequila must age for one to three years. This type of tequila takes more time to make and is typically a bit more expensive. However, it usually has a more sophisticated and layered flavor. Similar to alcohols like brandy and wine, tequila takes on some of the flavors from its fermentation barrel.

Código is a well-known brand that is based in Amatitán, Jalisco, MX, and has been making quality tequila for several generations. The company uses harvesting and fermenting methods that have been passed down and perfected over the years. Another way they stand out is the French Oak Cabernet wine barrels that they use when aging — giving it an extra tasty finish. This careful attention to detail combined with the fact that they do not use harsh chemicals or additives makes an excellent-tasting tequila.

This bottle is on the high end of the price range at $265, but the smooth flavor makes it worth it. Most high-quality tequilas are meant to be sipped. On the rocks, this could be a refreshing afternoon beverage that you won't forget. But the flavors are best appreciated when served neat. Ice or mixing this drink with other pairings will take away from its subtle range of flavors.

This well-known brand of tequila recently launched the Don Julio Rosado, a perfectly blended reposado aged in Ruby Port wine casks so it boasts a delightful rosé hue. A reposado like this has refreshing flavors and a smooth finish that tastes great over ice or sipped neat. Thanks to this spirit's lightness, it's excellent when served cold with a slice of lemon or lime or with a dash of club soda. This is a tequila savored and adored by classic tequila lovers and wine drinkers alike.

Classic Reposado tequila falls in the middle range of aging: It isn't aged as long as Anejo but still aged from two months up to a year. This gives the drink an already tinted shade, but the unique wine casks really take this brand to another level.

Don Julio is made from 100% Blue Weber Agave, which is grown in the highlands of Jalisco. The unique volcanic soil and the high elevation create a perfect environment for agave to thrive. A company like this knows that the agave plant determines the taste and quality of its tequila, which is why they don't harvest an entire field like other brands. They harvest individual plants at the precise time they ripen. Don Julio's renowned brand and the time and effort that goes into this Rosado puts it on the high end of the price spectrum. A 750 ml bottle costs about $115-$140.

With no additives or extra ingredients, this brand is perfect for those who love the natural agave taste. Lalo Blanco is the best Blanco tequila for drinking neat because it's a crisp and unaged tequila that reveals its complex layers with each sip. Without the use of barrels for aging, the agave plant's taste hits your tastebuds. This 100% blue agave tequila is made in Mexico and offers a crystal clear look with strong aromas and a smooth texture. Lalo is certainly a spirit to be appreciated by connoisseurs but also enjoyed by the masses at an affordable price range.

Lalo achieves an elegant body of flavor with a meticulous process that begins with cooking the agave hearts in stone steam ovens. Cooking the agave consistently and allowing it to rest ensure that the hearts are soft and plump, which makes pressing the juices easier. Using water to balance the sugar and the same type of yeast that makes champagne, the fermenting process draws out a sugary flavor. The brand does two rounds of distilling — a primary round and a second round for refining the flavor and alcohol levels.  Most Blanco tequilas are overlooked in terms of taste. Lalo is a pure and delicious product that pays special tribute to the blue agave plant by foregoing the aging process altogether.

Smooth and flavorful, Tequila Eterno Verano Blanco is an absolute must-try for those with a passion for quality. At a reasonable $49.99, this bottle tastes undoubtedly top-shelf with hints of baking spices and refreshing citrus flavors throughout. Eterno Verano Blanco is so delectable you won't want to hide the intricate flavors in mixers but rather sip and savor it on the rocks or neat. This unique tequila was made with a never-ending summer in mind and immediately makes you want to kick your feet up, find some salt and lime, and a group of friends to share it with.

This tequila is made entirely from Blue Weber agaves grown in both the highlands and lowlands of Jalisco, Mexico. What sets Tequila Eterno Verano apart is the care taken during the harvesting, which lasts anywhere from five to eight years. This results in a complex, smooth, and intense flavor profile that can only be achieved through patience and expert practice. To add to the appeal, the brand also bottles its tequila in recycled glass and utilizes natural cork, so you can focus on flavor only while you sip.

You've likely seen High Noon Vodka & Soda on bar menus and store shelves, but more recently, the brand launched its version of tequila and soda, and it does not disappoint. High Noon Tequila Seltzer has an unparalleled blend of flavors that tantalize the senses to leave a lasting impression on the palate. Seltzers have become increasingly popular over the years for their lower sugar content and higher alcohol percentages. High Noon Tequila & Soda has combined all of these best qualities to serve up the quintessential summer beverage. Perfect for sipping by the pool, on the beach, boat, or around the fire, High Noon has found a way to bottle summer up in a can, and it's best served cold.

This new product is a testament to the brand's innovative approach toward developing fresh ideas. Made with real fruit juice for natural sweetness and tequila sourced from the finest agave plants in Mexico, this is a refreshing blend of flavors with no added sugar, gluten-free, and just 100 calories per can. The four invigorating flavors of lime, grapefruit, strawberry, and passionfruit offer a variety for every taste bud. On top of that, the brand doesn't use artificial flavors, colors, or sweeteners, which means you can sip a refreshing beverage and forget about harmful chemicals and additives.

Ritual Zero Proof, a non-alcoholic brand, is quickly making a name for itself in the beverage industry for those who don't drink, are allergic to alcohol, and much more. Anyone who loves the rich flavors found in tequila but isn't looking for the buzz or the hangover that often accompanies a margarita can rejoice at finding Ritual Zero Proof Tequila Alternative.

Stirring up a classic margarita or getting a little more adventurous with a fruity Paloma or a refreshing Lemonada will be just as easy and tasty with this tequila alternative. Ritual Zero Proof uses a fine blend of ingredients to achieve a similar flavor to real tequila. Customers will notice hints of grassy flavors and a distinct smoky taste with a fire similar to the real stuff. Zero Proof is perfect for cutting back on alcohol or simply spicing up a boring glass of soda or juice. At a low price of $29.99, this beverage is perfect to have on hand for nights when you don't want to indulge too much or if you want to offer an alcohol-free option when entertaining guests.