Best Budget-Friendly Tequilas

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I saw an article recently on a site I won’t name that published a list of the top tequilas on the market. As someone who considers himself something of a tequila aficionado I wasn’t impressed. Half the tequilas on that list aren’t fit for frat-party margaritas much less sipping straight in the comfort of your Corona-19 confined home. So what should you try if you want a nice tequila buzz but don’t have a Congressional stimulus budget to spend? Read on for my picks that can be purchased $60 and under for a 750ml bottle.  

Cazadores Añejo ($37)

For any of you who are perhaps a little newer to the joys of tequila, most brands are available in at least three varieties: Blanco/Silver, Reposado, and Añejo. These designations are based on how long the liquor has aged in the barrel before bottling. Generally, the longer it has aged, the smoother it tastes and añejos have been aged at least one year. Cazadores Añejo is my go-to tequila. It’s not as well-known as some of the others on this list, but it’s smooth and delicious.

Herradura Ultra ($57)

If you check out their website you’ll learn that Herradura has a rich history and a great line of tequilas. You can’t go wrong with any of their products, but this one is my favorite. This bottle is a little pricier than most on my list, but taste it and you’ll know why. A crystal clear añejo rather than the typical honey-gold color, it’s a premium variety without a premium price.

Casamigos Añejo ($50)

Famously cofounded by actor George Clooney then sold for an astounding one billion (with a B) dollars just four years later, this label’s tequila is aged for 14 months before being bottled and its sweet flavor goes down as smooth as any tequila on this list.

Milagro Añejo ($35)

Yes, the bottle is eye-catching, but the contents are something special too. You might suspect this tequila is of lower quality based on the economic price, but it holds its own against many of the more expensive brands.  

Corralejo Añejo ($37)

This is another tequila that comes in a beautiful bottle. I was introduced to it via a Christmas present last year and it kept me happy and warm by the tree on more than one occasion. Give yourself a treat, drink the bottle then save it to decorate your bar.

Dulce Vida Organic Reposado ($30)

Purists may dismiss this tequila as a gimmick based on its organic nature, but I encourage you to give it a try. I favor organic foods as much as possible in order to avoid food sprayed with pesticides or grown with fertilizers or hormones, and this tequila not only follows those practices, it has a light, sweet flavor too.

Don Julio Añejo ($58)

Don Julio tends to cost a bit more than most of the tequilas on this list, but they make a good product. This one sips clean and will warm your belly with its finish.

Patron Añejo ($60)

As the most expensive tequila on my list, Patron has a lot to live up to and it largely delivers. This añejo is as smooth as you’ll find.

Tres Agaves Añejo ($50)

Tres Agaves makes the best margarita mix on the market, but their tequila isn’t too shabby either. Aged for 18 months in bourbon barrels, its taste includes hints of fruit with a spicy finish.

Pueblo Viejo Añejo ($27)

And finally, priced under $30 per bottle at most stores this tequila probably gets dismissed by many, but it shouldn’t. A friend introduced it to me recently and it’s surprisingly good.