Brian Nagele
With the help of our comprehensive guide to the greatest tequilas for those truly memorable moments, be ready to up your shot game. Regardless of your level of experience with tequila, this article is your ticket to a world of robust flavors and velvety finishes. We’ve put up a collection that pleases all palates, from the crisp bite of silver tequilas to the smokey depths of mature añejos. Take a trip with us through distilleries and agave fields as we explore the best choices that are redefining the shot. Experience the pure essence of agave and learn why these tequilas should be a part of your collection. Let’s toast to stylish shooting!
Espolon Blanco
Espolon Blanco is the first on my list because it’s a tribute to authentic Mexican culture. The tequila comes from 100% Blue Weber Agave. It’s also handcrafted and has one of the smoothest and most balanced tastes. The creator of this tequila wanted to make something that people could enjoy. Maestro Cirilo saw that his peers weren’t enjoying tequila and had switched to brandy instead. So, he became determined to do something about it. Espolon Blanco is a tequila that blends well with citrus flavors. But it also holds its own straight up in a shot glass. Trust me. You won’t be disappointed.
Casamigos Blanco Tequila
Casamigos Blanco Tequila earns the number two spot on my best tequila for shots list. Why? It’s got a similar story to Espolon Blanco. Through research, I discovered that Casamigos Blanco Tequila also hails from Mexico’s Jalisco area. The tequila is 100% Blue Weber Agave and is aged over seven to nine years. While they say wine gets better with age, I’ve found the same can hold true for tequila in a shot glass. There are hints of citrus fruit, grapefruit, and vanilla here. This makes for a refreshing but light taste within tequila’s familiar punch.
Patron Silver Tequila
Patron Silver Tequila is top-notch stuff. Or, should I say top-shelf tequila flavor you can’t experience with other tequila varieties. Patron Silver Tequila is the smoothest and sweetest taste on the list. It starts with a citrus aroma and ends with a light pepper finish. Of course, I was skeptical about Patron at first. I mean, why pay more for the same thing? Tequila in a shot glass is just tequila, right? But was I wrong! Once I tried Patron, it was hard to go back to other varieties. Patron definitely lives up to its price tag. My only piece of advice is to take it slow. Patron is 40% alcohol, so just a few shots of this tequila should do.
Olmeca Altos Palta
Olmeca Altos Palta is an award-winning white tequila. And I found it easy to see why once I downed a shot or two. This variety made my best tequila for shots list not because it’s won awards but because it’s got a flavor that sticks with you. A bartender or two would agree with me as Olmeca Altos Palta is one of their favorites. This tequila may hail from a different region than the previous varieties on my list. However, it’s got lemon, lime, and agave flavors that blend well with the margarita. But for those who want a tropical oasis in a shot glass without all the added sugars, Olmeco Altos Palta hits the spot.
Teramana Blanco
Teramana Blanco has a real story behind it. Like some other tequilas that make up my faves, Teramana Blanco has origins in the Jalisco Highlands. Its Blue Agave goes through a brick oven roasting process. This helps the tequila’s citrusy flavors really come through. The name Teramana Blanco even has somewhat mystical origins. It means the spirit of the Earth. How cool is that? I have no complaints about a white tequila that goes down lightly and is environmentally friendly.
1800 Silver
1800 Silver tequila. What can I say? It’s another top-shelf or premium variety that won’t leave much to be desired. 1800 Silver tequila is made from 100% Weber Blue Agave. However, this brand goes through an eight to 12-year aging process. I think this extended aging process is what makes 1800 Silver so smooth. I’ve found it to have a bolder, more unique taste than the other tequilas on the list. There’s a bit of pepper and fruit taste there. A perfect mix of sweet and spicy. 1800 Silver is great if I want an extra kick in my shot glass.
El Jimador Silver
El Jimador Silver has won over 22 awards for its clear and flavor-bursting taste. I can’t go wrong with a little El Jimador Silver in my shot glass. It’s spicy and warm with all the citrus scents and flavors I could hope for. This is great for a shot glass because the taste can hold its own. The tequila contains 100% Blue Agave that’s also handcrafted. The care and dedication to the fermentation process are apparent in the refreshing and light flavors. I love how there’s also richness here. It’s rare to find a tequila that’s just strong enough without overwhelming your senses at the same time.
