Top-Shelf Tequilas That Are Worth The Price, According To Experts

Tequila Fortaleza Añejo

Tequila Fortaleza boasts a rich heritage that traces back to 1873. Throughout the years, the family has made significant contributions to the tequila industry, including promoting tequila beyond Mexico and helping to establish a Denomination of Origin for the spirit. The current distillery, perched on a hill in Tequila, employs traditional methods that have been passed down through generations to create exceptional tequilas. The Tequila Fortaleza Añejo is particularly beloved for its luxurious mouthfeel and intricate flavor profile, featuring notes of butterscotch, citrus, and vanilla.

When we inquired with Diego González of Agave Liquors about what sets this tequila apart, he remarked, "It's everything from the hand-blown bottles to the absence of additives and the fact that it's produced in very small batches. The piñas are crushed using stone, cooked in a brick oven, fermented in open-air wooden tanks, and distilled in copper pot stills." Additionally, the Fortaleza Añejo is crafted with natural spring water and aged for 18 months in American oak barrels, which imparts its rich, buttery flavors. A bottle typically costs around $100 or more, depending on the retailer, but as González noted, "It truly is artisanal."

Cascahuín 11 Brix

A single look at the unique geometric-patterned label reveals that Cascahuín 11 Brix is far from an ordinary tequila. In fact, Cascahuín itself is an exceptional distillery, situated in El Arenal, known as "the gateway to agave" in the Jalisco Valley. The Rosales family has been crafting tequila here since 1904. Currently, owner Salvador "Chava" Rosales produces small-batch tequilas that blend traditional methods with modern innovations. Brix 11 stands out as one of Cascahuín's creative limited-edition offerings.

Beau du Bois, vice president of Bar and Spirits at Puesto, described the 11 Brix as "a rare, one-time release blanco tequila that combines three different tequilas, each fermented in distinct vessels: cement, wood, and stainless steel. The tequila maker maintains each batch's mosto at 11 brix, indicating the sugar content." This meticulous process results in a flavor complexity that is uncommon in blanco tequilas. The agave flavor is prominent, complemented by hints of mint, pepper, and citrus. But is it worth the price tag of $350 and up for a bottle? "We may never encounter another tequila crafted with such passion and creativity again," Du Bois remarked. "A true unicorn."

Cierto Tequila Private Collection Extra Añejo

When we consulted Chicago-based tequila expert Carlos E. Cuarta-Tovar about his top recommendations for premium tequilas, he stated, "To me, top-shelf signifies craftsmanship, quality, and authenticity. That's why I direct people to the remarkable additive-free tequilas crafted by the legendary Enrique Fonseca of La Tequileña, whose family has been cultivating agave since the 1800s." Tovar considers the Cierto Tequila Private Collection Extra Añejo to be one of Fonseca's standout offerings.

Priced at $279 per bottle, this exquisite tequila is not meant for margaritas or ranch water cocktails. Instead, it should be enjoyed neat to fully appreciate its rich aromas and flavors of chocolate, cherries, and caramel. Crafted from 100% agave and natural spring water sourced from Jalisco, the Cierto Tequila Private Collection Extra Añejo is aged for 48 months in French oak barrels, imparting a unique richness and smooth finish that has garnered numerous awards at spirits competitions worldwide. Tovar describes it as indulgent, perfect for pairing with cigars, and truly deserving of its acclaim.

Clase Azul Reposado

Few tequila bottles are as instantly recognizable as Clase Azul Reposado. Each white ceramic bottle is meticulously hand-painted by Mexican artisans, featuring intricate blue feather designs. The bottles also display Casa Azul's floral emblem and have a distinctive bell-shaped top. The contents are equally remarkable; this reposado tequila is crafted from 100% Jalisco agave and aged for eight months in American whiskey barrels. The result is a rich, slightly sweet tequila with flavors of cooked agave, wood, vanilla, and caramel.

A bottle of Clase Azul Reposado typically retails for between $169 and $200. Some consider the price to be on the higher side, especially given speculation that Casa Azul may enhance the flavor with additives. However, many believe the overall experience justifies the cost. Garrett Mikell, a mixology instructor at the Institute of Culinary Education's Los Angeles campus, shared with Chowhound, "While there may be discussions about the use of additives in the liquid, it's undeniable that Clase Azul has become a symbol of celebration and luxury. For me, the bottle and the sound of the bell create an experience that goes beyond just the drink."

Caballito Cerrero Añejo

You may encounter Caballito Cerrero and dismiss it as just another "agave distilled" spirit. However, this is far from being a subpar Mexican liquor. Diego González explained, "This is one of our most debated brands because they produce tequila, but the owner had issues with the CRT (Regulatory Council del Tequila), leading them to choose not to label it as tequila."

The brand was established in 1950 when Don Alfonso Jiménez Rosales parted ways with Tequila Herradura. Rosales aimed to operate on his own terms, naming the company Caballito Cerrero, which translates to "wild horse," symbolizing horses that do not require "herraduras" or horseshoes. Even today, the company maintains its unique approach, utilizing various agaves, including chato (agave angustifolia).

Many believe that Caballito Cerrero Añejo can compete with any premium tequila available. It is crafted from 100% agave and spring water sourced from Amatitán in Jalisco. The aging process takes place in oak barrels for a period ranging from 13 months to nine years. Bottles typically start at around $200, and many enthusiasts assert that they are worth every cent. González remarked, "This is the authentic OG tequila. Its high price reflects the extensive time and effort involved, the small batch production, and the exceptional flavor."

Casa Obsidiana Reposado

One of the key factors contributing to Jalisco's remarkable tequila production is its fertile volcanic soil. Towering over the town of Tequila is the Tequila Volcano, encircled by vast agave fields. At the foot of this volcano lies Casa Obsidiana, a modern distillery renowned for crafting award-winning tequilas, including the Casa Obsidiana Reposado. This 100% agave tequila is aged for four months in French oak barrels that previously held Napa Valley chardonnay. The result is a smooth reposado with flavors of hazelnut, toffee, citrus, and winter spices.

Nikki Bonkowski, a master mixologist and ambassador for VinoVoss AI, emphasizes that the unique terroir of Casa Obsidiana sets this tequila apart. She explains, "Obsidian is prevalent throughout the agave fields of the estate. The brand's philosophy revolves around purging negative energy by enjoying the obsidian-infused tequila produced by the distillery." According to Bonkowski, this tequila is not only easy to sip but also comes in an eye-catching bottle that serves as a fantastic centerpiece for any gathering. The bottles are priced at approximately $250.

Fuenteseca Cosecha 2018 Blanco Las Antenas

Grover Sanschagrin is well-versed in the world of tequila. Along with his wife, Scarlet, he has received formal "catador" training in tequila evaluation, and they reside in Jalisco, where they immerse themselves in all aspects of tequila. They are also the founders of Tequila Matchmaker, an app featuring a comprehensive tequila database. When asked about high-end tequilas that justify their price, Sanschagrin stated, "My top pick is the extraordinary Fuenteseca Cosecha 2018 Blanco 'Las Antenas.'"

While blanco tequilas often don't receive the highest accolades, this particular one is exceptional for several reasons. Firstly, it is crafted from mature agave sourced from the mineral-rich soil of a single orchard in Michoacán. The agave was harvested in 2018 and allowed to rest in a stainless steel tank for two years. "I believe it's one of the finest blanco tequilas ever produced," Sanschagrin remarked. "Its slightly higher proof makes it enjoyable to sip slowly, allowing you to appreciate its depth and complexity as the alcohol dissipates." Bottles are priced at around $150 and up, a cost Sanschagrin considers justified given the expensive production process and the fact that it is a limited single batch that won't be available indefinitely.

ArteNOM Seleccion de 1146 Añejo

ArteNOM is an exceptional tequila brand that collaborates with esteemed master distillers from various distilleries to create truly distinctive tequilas. Each of the four offerings is crafted from agave sourced from specific regions in Jalisco, highlighting the creativity of the distillers. The Seleccion de 1146 Añejo is particularly popular among tequila enthusiasts for its bold flavors and unconventional production methods. This expression is crafted by the renowned tequilero Enrique Fonseca of La Tequileña distillery, using agave from his hometown of Atotonilco El Alto in the highlands of Jalisco.

"Enrique Fonseca's addition to the collection is this rich, deep, and intricate ultra-aged añejo (28 months)," Carlos E. Cuarta-Tovar shared with Chowhound. "It was aged for the first half of its maturation in Cabernet Franc wine barrels and the latter half in toasted rye whiskey barrels." This dual aging process imparts a complex array of flavors, including cooked agave, dark chocolate, vanilla, and baking spices. The luxurious mouthfeel enhances the overall experience of this tequila, which retails for approximately $100 to $120 per bottle.

Cascahuín Tahona Blanco

Many of the experts we consulted highlighted Cascahuín as a distillery that every tequila enthusiast should be familiar with. Several also pointed out the Tahona Blanco as one of the finest examples of Cascahuín's craftsmanship. Beau du Bois remarked, "Chava Rosales, the master distiller at Cascahuín, is considered by numerous tequila producers, both large and small, to be the finest tequila maker in Jalisco. The profile of the Tahona Blanco perfectly illustrates the flavor of cooked valley agaves transformed into tequila. I have never encountered a better tequila."

Cascahuín employs the traditional tahona method to produce the Tahona Blanco, which imparts its unique flavors. A tahona is a large volcanic stone wheel that crushes the agave piñas to extract their juice. The tequila is fermented in open-air cement tanks, resulting in a crisp, agave-forward blanco with notes of citrus, mint, grass, and black pepper. Priced at around $100 per bottle, it is not inexpensive, but it is also not excessively priced, making it a solid entry-level artisanal choice for those looking to elevate their tequila experience.

Cuervo Reserva de la Familia Extra Añejo

When you think of José Cuervo, you might picture an affordable tequila that's great for margaritas but not necessarily ideal for sipping on its own. However, the brand also offers some premium tequilas that deserve your attention. "Growing up, José Cuervo was associated with good times and, admittedly, a few questionable choices," Garrett Mikell shared. "It wasn't until I tasted the Cuervo Reserva de la Familia Extra Añejo that I realized how much the brand had evolved."

José Cuervo truly went above and beyond with its limited-edition Reserva de la Familia Extra Añejo, selecting only 10 to 12-year-old agaves and utilizing just the hearts of the piñas. This tequila is aged in oak barrels for a minimum of three years, but the final blend includes tequilas from the family's reserves that are as old as 30 years. The result is a refined tequila with flavors of oak, almonds, cinnamon, and smoke. A bottle will cost you around $200 or more. Mikell remarked, "It's a testament to how a brand can grow, much like one's own taste preferences. It's meant for special occasions, and rightly so."

Volcán De Mi Tierra X.A. Reposado Tequila

Volcán De Mi Tierra is a distinctive distillery co-owned by Moët Hennessy and the Gallardo family, whose ancestors established the hacienda that now serves as the distillery's home in 1774. Nestled at the base of the Tequila Volcano, the distillery is renowned for its tequila blends that utilize agave sourced from both the highlands and lowlands of Jalisco. The X.A. Reposado Tequila stands out as the distillery's premium offering, with many enthusiasts noting its complexity, which is often lacking in other tequilas available today.

What sets the X.A. Reposado Tequila apart is its composition of three different aged tequilas. Grover Sanschagrin explains, "Tequila regulations dictate that the category of the least-aged component in the blend must be used, which in this case is a reposado. However, it also includes añejo and extra añejo tequilas." Each sip reveals a spectrum of flavors, ranging from vanilla and dried fruits to butterscotch and cherry. Priced at around $200 per bottle, it is on the higher end, but it consistently receives outstanding reviews. "It's rare to find a product that garners universal appreciation, but this one certainly does," Sanschagrin remarked.

Fortaleza Winter Blend 2022

Tequila enthusiasts recognize Fortaleza as an excellent option for those seeking a premium sipping tequila. However, for something truly exceptional, the limited-edition releases are definitely worth the investment. The Winter Blend 2022, in particular, left a lasting impression on many. "I would wholeheartedly recommend trying this — if you can locate it," said Grayce Yuen, VP of Finance at Tequila Tromba and The Sustainable Agave Company. "Regarded as the pinnacle of additive-free tequila, Fortaleza's annual Winter Blends are renowned for their artisanal craftsmanship."

The Winter Blend 2022 is a reposado tequila crafted from 100% agave, which is slow-cooked in traditional brick ovens and crushed using a tahona wheel. It is then aged for a minimum of six months in a combination of oak barrels, sherry casks, and bourbon barrels. This meticulous process results in a delightful array of aromas and flavors, with some tasting notes suggesting hints of butter, honey, caramel, and black pepper. However, as Yuen mentioned, it can be quite challenging to find. If you do succeed in securing a bottle, be prepared for a price exceeding $500.

Riazul Extra Añejo Tequila

Riazul is a relatively newcomer to the tequila industry, having been established in 2008. Nevertheless, its distinctive flavor profiles have garnered a loyal following over the years. The distillery is situated in the highlands of Jalisco, at the highest elevation in the state where blue Weber agave thrives. The cooler climate contributes to a higher sugar content in the agave, resulting in tequilas with sweet undertones. Founder Iñaki Orozco and master distiller Ruben Morales utilize various barrels for each expression, crafting unique flavor profiles. Riazul's premium offering is the Extra Añejo Tequila.

Orozco shared with Chowhound, "Riazul Extra Añejo Tequila is a four-year-old sipping tequila, carefully aged for three years in American oak and then finished for an additional year in sherry casks." This dual-barrel aging technique imparts depth to the tequila, revealing notes of oak, ripe fruits, spices, and honey. Overall, the Extra Añejo has received positive feedback from reviewers, who describe it as having a smooth entry, a delightful balance of spicy and sweet flavors, and a warm finish. The limited-edition, hand-numbered bottles are priced at approximately $165.

Tequila Tromba Cedano Reposado

Marco Cedano was well-acquainted with tequila when he established Tromba Tequila in 2011. Before this venture, he served as a master distiller for some of the world's leading tequila brands, including Don Julio. Alongside his son Rodrigo, he crafts exceptional tequilas at Tequila Tromba, situated in the Jalisco highlands. If you're in search of luxury, the Cedano Reposado is the perfect choice. Grace Yuen notes, "It's definitely worth trying if you're looking for a tequila with complexity."

The Cedano Reposado is made from agave plants that are at least seven years old. The piñas are roasted in brick ovens, and the agave juice undergoes fermentation in stainless steel tanks. It is then distilled twice and aged in French oak casks before being bottled in artisanal glass containers. "This expression is warm and nutty, with hints of spice and vanilla," Yuen remarked. "The palate offers earthy sweetness with citrus notes and a delightful, lingering finish." Priced at around $100 per bottle, it represents an incredible value, reflecting 50 years of expertise from a highly esteemed master distiller.

Methodology

To identify the premium tequilas that justify their steep price, we consulted a diverse group of tequila specialists, including bartenders, vendors, distillers, and educators. We requested their recommendations for the finest tequilas priced at $100 or more, along with explanations for why each selection is worth the investment. They highlighted various factors that set these tequilas apart, such as flavor, the dedication and craftsmanship involved in the production process, complexity, distinctive artisan methods, and rarity.