Budget to Premium: Top 10 tequilas at Every Price Point

Thu, Jul 03, 25

If your last memory of tequila involves a shot glass, a lime wedge, and a wince—you’re not alone. But here’s the truth: that version of tequila barely scratches the surface.

Real tequila is a craft spirit—high-quality and made entirely from Blue Weber agave. It’s one of the most complex and expressive spirits out there. It can be clean and crisp, smooth and smoky, or layered with notes of vanilla, caramel, spice, and even chocolate—if you’re paying attention. Once you understand the different types of tequila, you realize there’s one for every mood, every moment, and yes—even for sipping.

Not all tequilas are created equal. Understanding the styles is essential to choosing the right one—whether you're building cocktails or enjoying it neat. Here’s what you need to know:

Blanco (Silver)
Unaged and straight from distillation, Blanco is agave in its purest form. It’s bold, bright, and built for cocktails—think Margaritas, Palomas, and anything citrusy.
Reposado
Aged for a few months in oak, Reposado is tequila’s middle ground. Warm, rounded, and slightly sweet, it’s versatile enough to sip or mix.
Añejo
Aged 1–3 years, this is where tequila starts acting like a fine whiskey. Expect oak, spice, dark fruit, and a long, smooth finish.
Extra Añejo
Three years (or more) in oak gives this one serious character. Deep, dark, luxurious—it’s meant to be sipped slowly and appreciated like a vintage bourbon.
Joven (Gold)
Blended or lightly flavored, Joven is often misunderstood but great for approachable cocktails or easy-drinking nights.

Top 10 tequilas right now!

Espolon Tequila Blanco

Often considered one of the best tequilas to drink, Espolòn Blanco captures the bold spirit of Mexican culture. Crafted from 100% Blue Weber agave and unaged for purity, it delivers notes of roasted agave, citrus, pepper, and vanilla. With a clean, smooth finish, it’s equally at home in a craft cocktail or served neat. This bottle continues to win fans who value character and consistency.

21 Seeds Cucumber Jajapeno Tequila

Bright, refreshing, and infused with real botanicals, 21 Seeds Cucumber Jalapeño brings a new dimension to flavored tequila. Created by three women with a vision for fresh, all-natural spirits, it leads with cool cucumber and finishes with a refined touch of jalapeño heat. If you're exploring the top 10 tequilas with a modern twist, this one is a standout. Light, clean, and perfect for summer cocktails.

Milagro Silver Tequila

Milagro Silver blends tradition and innovation with its use of slow-roasted agave and dual distillation. The result is a tequila that’s crisp, balanced, and smooth, with notes of citrus and fresh herbs. It shines in cocktails like The Freshest Margarita, making it a top pick for those discovering the top 10 tequilas for versatility and flavor. Whether you're mixing or sipping, Milagro brings clarity to the glass.

Casamigos Tequila Blanco

Smooth, sweet, and easygoing, Casamigos Blanco delivers notes of vanilla, mint, and ripe agave with a chewy, full-bodied mouthfeel. Its stainless-steel resting process softens the finish, creating a tequila that’s loved by casual drinkers and connoisseurs alike. Positioned among the top 10 tequilas for everyday enjoyment, it’s as stylish as it is approachable.

Patron Silver Tequila

Handcrafted in small batches, Patrón Silver is a benchmark for clarity and balance in premium tequila. Made from 100% Blue Weber Agave, it opens with bright citrus and fruit, then fades into a gentle peppery finish. Its versatility has made it a staple for mixologists and one of the most respected choices among the best tequilas to drink. When only clean and consistent will do, Patrón delivers.

Jose Cuervo Especial Gold Tequila

As one of the world’s most recognized tequila brands, Jose Cuervo Gold holds a firm place in cocktail culture. It’s smooth and slightly sweet, with hints of oak, vanilla, spice, and caramel that make it ideal for Margaritas. A trusted choice for casual occasions, it’s often included in lists of the top 10 tequilas when you need something familiar, dependable, and easy to mix.

Teremana Tequila Blanco

Crafted in small batches using traditional methods, Teremana is known for its clean, approachable character. Bright citrus, roasted agave, and a touch of vanilla come together in a smooth, balanced pour that reflects its Highlands origin. Whether you’re sipping it neat or shaking up a Paloma, Teremana stands out as one of the top 10 tequilas if you value quality without pretense.

Don Julio Tequila Reposado

Aged for eight months in American white oak, Don Julio® Reposado boasts a golden hue and a smooth, balanced finish. Its flavor is rich yet mellow, with warm notes of oak, vanilla, and soft spice. The aroma is inviting, making it ideal for sipping on the rocks or in refined cocktails. With its depth and elegance, it easily earns a spot among the top 10 tequilas to enjoy now.

Astral Tequila Blanco

Astral Blanco Tequila is crafted from 100% Blue Weber agave, grown under sun-filled days and starry nights for a naturally balanced flavor. It delivers a smooth, complex profile with crisp citrus, clover honey, white pepper, and lush tropical fruit layered over pure agave. With zero sugar and only 97 calories per 1.5 oz, it’s a clean pour made for modern sipping. Its vibrant character and purity secure its place among the top 10 tequilas to try now.

Final Sip

If your idea of tequila still begins and ends with lime and salt, it’s time to take another look. What was once a late-night dare has become one of the most refined, versatile, and flavor-rich spirits in the world. Whether you lean toward something crisp and citrusy, smooth and smoky, or deep and oaky, there’s a tequila out there that’s made for your palate—and might just surprise it.

From bold Blancos to luxurious Extra Añejos, the key is knowing what you enjoy and choosing accordingly. And with more high-quality bottles available than ever before, now is the perfect time to explore.

So next time you reach for a bottle, skip the gimmicks and go straight for the good stuff. Because the top 10 tequilas aren’t just the most talked-about—they’re the ones that make you pause mid-sip and think, “That’s tequila?”Find your next favorite at Arlington Wine & Liquor.