A Sensational Experience: 10 Best Sipping Tequila Under $100

Written By Lydia Martin
July 7, 2023

Last Updated on November 26, 2023 by Lydia Martin

Looking to elevate your tequila experience without breaking the bank? Look no further! In this guide, I’ll unveil the tantalizing world of the best sipping tequila under $100. From the smooth and seductive notes of caramel to the vibrant zest of citrus, these tequilas deliver an extraordinary sensory journey that won’t leave a dent in your wallet.

Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or a curious newcomer, join me as we uncover the hidden gems and unrivaled craftsmanship of the best sipping tequila under $100. Get ready to indulge in sophistication and discover your new favorite tequila companion.

Introduction

What is a sipping tequila?

A sipping tequila is a high-quality tequila that is carefully crafted and aged to enhance its flavors and aromas. It is meant to be enjoyed slowly, sipped, and savored to fully appreciate its nuances. Sipping tequilas often exhibit a smooth and refined character, making them ideal for sipping neat or with minimal accompaniments.

What are the criteria for selection?

Several criteria are typically considered to ensure a premium drinking experience when selecting a sipping tequila. These criteria may include:

Distillation Process

The distillation process is crucial in determining the quality and character of the tequila. Sipping tequilas are often produced using traditional distillation methods, such as pot still distillation, which allows for more flavor retention and complexity. The distillation process contributes to the overall quality and uniqueness of the tequila.

Aging

Sipping tequilas often undergo aging in oak barrels, which imparts additional flavors and smoothness to the agave spirits. The length of aging can vary, with options ranging from reposado (rested) to añejo (aged) and extra añejo (extra-aged) tequilas.

Flavor Profile

Sipping tequilas offer a well-balanced and nuanced flavor profile. They may exhibit notes of agave, caramel, vanilla, spices, and other subtle flavors, providing a complex and enjoyable tasting experience.

Smoothness

Sipping tequilas are known for their smooth and refined character. They should have a pleasant mouthfeel, with minimal harshness or burn, allowing the flavors to unfold gently on the palate.

Quality

Sipping tequilas are usually made from high-quality agave plants and crafted using traditional production methods. They undergo careful fermentation, distillation, and aging processes to develop complex flavors and smoothness.

Affordability

Affordability is an important consideration for many when selecting a sipping tequila. While premium and ultra-premium tequilas can be expensive, there are excellent options available under $100. These tequilas offer a balance of quality and price, providing an affordable yet enjoyable sipping experience.

Top 10 Best Sipping Tequilas Under $100

Tequila Fortaleza Reposado

Tequila Fortaleza Reposado is highly regarded for its authentic production methods, resulting in a rich and flavorful tequila showcasing the best traditional craftsmanship.

ABV: 40%
Average Price: $70 – $80
Type of Tequila: Reposado
Brand: Tequila Fortaleza
Distillery: Tequila Los Abuelos
Description: Handcrafted tequila made using traditional methods. It is estate-grown, distilled in small copper pot stills, and aged in American oak barrels [1].
Aging Process: 6 – 9 months
Flavor Profile: Smooth and balanced with notes of vanilla, caramel, and cooked agave.
Tasting Notes:

Nose: Cooked agave, vanilla, and oak.
Palate: Caramel, butterscotch, and subtle spice.
Smoothness: Smooth with a velvety texture.
Finishing: Long and satisfying with a touch of sweetness.

Food Pairings: Grilled meats, aged cheeses, dark chocolate.
Recommended Cocktails: Old Fashioned, Paloma.

Casamigos Añejo Tequila

Casamigos Añejo Tequila delivers a well-rounded and sophisticated flavor profile at an affordable price, making it a popular choice for sipping and cocktails.

ABV: 40%
Average Price: $50 – $60
Type of Tequila: Añejo
Brand: Casamigos
Distillery: Productos Finos de Agave
Description: This tequila was created by friends George Clooney, Rande Gerber, and Mike Meldman. It is assembled from 100% blue Weber agave, distilled in small batches, and aged in American oak barrels.
Aging Process: 14 months
Flavor Profile: Rich and complex with hints of oak, chocolate, and butterscotch.
Tasting Notes:

Nose: Caramel, vanilla, and toasted oak.
Palate: Dark chocolate, roasted nuts, and a hint of sweetness.
Smoothness: Smooth with a rich mouthfeel.
Finishing: Warm and lingering with notes of oak and butterscotch.

Food Pairings: Grilled steak, dark chocolate desserts, roasted nuts.
Recommended Cocktails: Añejo Old Fashioned, Tequila Manhattan.
Why It’s a Good Choice:

El Tesoro Paradiso Extra Añejo

El Tesoro Paradiso Extra Añejo is highly regarded for its complex flavors and meticulous aging process, resulting in a luxurious and indulgent tequila experience.

ABV: 40%
Average Price: $80 – $90
Type of Tequila: Extra Añejo
Brand: El Tesoro
Distillery: La Alteña
Description: A premium extra añejo tequila made using traditional methods. It is aged for an extended period in ex-bourbon barrels and finished in French oak barrels.
Aging Process: 5 years
Flavor Profile: Velvety texture with flavors of dark chocolate, roasted nuts, and dried fruits.
Tasting Notes:

Nose: Caramelized agave, dark chocolate, and dried fruits.
Palate: Roasted nuts, oak, and hints of spice.
Smoothness: Silky smooth with a luxurious mouthfeel.
Finishing: Long and satisfying with a rich, velvety finish.

Food Pairings: Chocolate truffles, roasted almonds, aged Gouda cheese.
Recommended Cocktails: Extra Añejo Old Fashioned, Tequila Negroni.

Herradura Selección Suprema Extra Añejo

Herradura Selección Suprema Extra Añejo represents the pinnacle of craftsmanship, delivering a luxurious sipping experience with its complex flavor profile and remarkable aging period.

ABV: 40%
Average Price: $90 – $100
Type of Tequila: Extra Añejo
Brand: Herradura
Distillery: Casa Herradura
Description: An ultra-premium extra añejo tequila crafted using traditional methods. It is built from 100% blue Weber agave, refined in copper pot stills, and aged in American white oak barrels.
Aging Process: 49 months
Flavor Profile: Intense and smooth with notes of caramel, vanilla, and spices.
Tasting Notes:

Nose: Caramel, vanilla, and baking spices.
Palate: Rich caramel, tropical fruit, and a touch of cinnamon.
Smoothness: Incredibly smooth and well-rounded.
Finishing: Lingering with a warm and harmonious finish.

Food Pairings: Flan, cinnamon-spiced desserts, aged Gruyère cheese.
Recommended Cocktails: Extra Añejo Old Fashioned, Tequila Old Pal.

Don Julio 1942 Añejo

Don Julio 1942 Añejo is known for its impeccable quality and smoothness. It is often considered a worthwhile investment for tequila enthusiasts seeking a luxurious and indulgent sipping experience.

ABV: 38%
Average Price: $90-$100
Type of Tequila: Añejo
Brand: Don Julio
Distillery: Tequila Don Julio
Description: An exceptional don julio tequila produced in small batches. It is built from 100% blue Weber agave, distilled twice, and aged in American oak barrels.
Aging Process: 2.5 years
Flavor Profile: Rich and sweet with flavors of caramel, toffee, and oak.
Tasting Notes:

Nose: Caramel, vanilla, and toasted oak.
Palate: Sweet caramel, toffee, and hints of cinnamon.
Smoothness: Remarkably smooth and refined.
Finishing: Warm and lingering with notes of oak and spices.

Food Pairings: Crème brûlée, pecan pie, aged cheddar cheese.
Recommended Cocktails: Añejo Manhattan, Tequila Sour.

Partida Elegante Extra Añejo

Partida Elegante Extra Añejo is celebrated for its intricate flavor profile and elegant character. It is a tequila that exemplifies craftsmanship and delivers a refined sipping experience.

ABV: 40%
Average Price: $90 – $100
Type of Tequila: Extra Añejo
Brand: Partida
Distillery: Tequila Partida
Description: An artisanal extra añejo tequila crafted using traditional methods. It is manufacture from 100% blue Weber agave, double purified, and aged in American oak barrels.
Aging Process: 40 months
Flavor Profile: Complex and elegant with hints of vanilla, honey, and cinnamon.
Tasting Notes:

Nose: Vanilla, caramel, and toasted oak.
Palate: Honey, dried fruits, and subtle spiciness.
Smoothness: Velvety smooth with a luxurious mouthfeel.
Finishing: Long and satisfying with a rich, complex finish.

Food Pairings: Crème caramel, spiced pear tart, aged Gouda cheese.
Recommended Cocktails: Extra Añejo Old Fashioned, Tequila Martinez.

Milagro Select Barrel Reserve Añejo

Milagro Select Barrel Reserve Añejo offers an excellent balance of flavors and a smooth, approachable character. It is a versatile añejo tequila that can be savored neat or in your favorite cocktails.

ABV: 40%
Average Price: $70 – $80
Type of Tequila: Añejo
Brand: Milagro
Distillery: Milagro
Description: A premium añejo tequila made from 100% blue Weber agave. It undergoes a careful selection process and is aged in French oak barrels.
Aging Process: 14 months
Flavor Profile: Smooth and full-bodied with notes of caramel, roasted nuts, and spice.
Tasting Notes:

Nose: Caramel, vanilla, and toasted oak.
Palate: Roasted nuts, baking spices, and dark chocolate.
Smoothness: Smooth and full-bodied.
Finishing: Lingering with a rich, flavorful finish.

Food Pairings: Toffee pudding, almond biscotti, aged Manchego cheese.
Recommended Cocktails: Añejo Old Fashioned, Tequila Manhattan.

El Mayor Extra Añejo

El Mayor Extra Añejo impresses with its deep and complex flavor profile, offering a bold and indulgent sipping experience.

ABV: 40%
Average Price: $80 – $90
Type of Tequila: Extra Añejo
Brand: El Mayor
Distillery: Tequila El Mayor
Description: An ultra premium tequila made from 100% blue agave. It is double distilled and aged in small charred American oak barrels.
Aging Process: 3-5 years
Flavor Profile: Rich and robust with flavors of dark chocolate, coffee, and toasted oak.
Tasting Notes:

Nose: Dark chocolate, roasted coffee beans, and caramel.
Palate: Rich cocoa, toasted oak, and a hint of baking spices.
Smoothness: Exceptionally smooth with a luscious mouthfeel.
Finishing: Long and satisfying with a lingering cocoa finish.

Food Pairings: Chocolate mousse, espresso brownies, smoked Gouda cheese.
Recommended Cocktails: Extra Añejo Old Fashioned, Tequila Espresso Martini.

Clase Azul Reposado

Clase Azul Reposado stands out not only for its exquisite packaging but also for its smooth and creamy flavor profile. It is a great tequila that combines elegance and craftsmanship, making it a great choice for sipping and special occasions.

ABV: 40%
Average Price: $80 – $90
Type of Tequila: Reposado
Brand: Clase Azul
Distillery: Productos Finos de Agave
Description: A luxury reposado tequila known for its distinctive handcrafted ceramic bottle. It is fabricated from 100% blue Weber agave, double distilled, and aged in oak barrels [2].
Aging Process: 8 months
Flavor Profile: Creamy and smooth with notes of vanilla, toffee, and herbal undertones.
Tasting Notes:

Nose: Vanilla, caramel, and roasted agave.
Palate: Creamy toffee, warm spices, and subtle herbal character.
Smoothness: Smooth and velvety.
Finishing: Long and luxurious with a clean, crisp herbal character.

Food Pairings: Flan, almond brittle, aged Monterey Jack cheese.
Recommended Cocktails: Reposado Margarita, Tequila Mule.

Ocho Añejo

Ocho Añejo showcases the influence of agave terroir and vintage, offering a unique and dynamic flavor profile. It is an excellent choice for those seeking a well-balanced and approachable añejo tequila at an affordable price point.

ABV: 40%
Average Price: $60 – $70
Type of Tequila: Añejo
Brand: Ocho
Distillery: Destilería La Alteña
Description: A single-estate añejo tequila that emphasizes the terroir and vintage of the agave. It is made using traditional methods, double distilled, and aged in American oak barrels.
Aging Process: 12 months
Flavor Profile: Well-balanced with flavors of cooked agave, caramel, and hints of citrus.
Tasting Notes:

Nose: Cooked agave, caramel, and a touch of citrus zest.
Palate: Sweet agave, rich caramel, and a subtle brightness of citrus.
Smoothness: Smooth and well-rounded.
Finishing: Pleasant and clean with a lingering citrus and herbal character.

Food Pairings: Agave-glazed pork tenderloin, citrus-infused flan, queso fresco.
Recommended Cocktails: Añejo Paloma, Tequila Old Fashioned.

FAQs

Which tequila has a smooth taste?

Several tequilas have a reputation for providing a smooth tequila taste. Here are a few examples:

Tequila Fortaleza Reposado: Known for its smooth and well-rounded character, with flavors of cooked agave, caramel, and hints of citrus.
Casamigos Añejo Tequila: Offers a smooth drinking experience with flavors of caramel, vanilla, toasted oak, and hints of agave nectar.
El Tesoro Paradiso Extra Añejo: Praised for its silky smoothness and luxurious mouthfeel, showcasing notes of caramelized agave, dark chocolate, and dried fruits.
Don Julio 1942 Añejo: Renowned for its exceptional smoothness, with flavors of sweet caramel, toffee, and hints of cinnamon.
Partida Elegante Extra Añejo: Crafted to deliver a smooth and refined experience, featuring notes of vanilla, caramel, and toasted oak.
Herradura Ultra Anejo Tequila: Crafted for a smooth and refined experience, Herradura Ultra Añejo delights with notes of caramel, vanilla, and toasted oak.

When it comes to determining the smoothness of a tequila, personal preference and taste can vary. It’s always recommended to try different tequilas and explore various brands and expressions to discover the ones that align with your individual palate.

How do I choose a sipping tequila?

Choosing a sipping tequila involves considering a few factors. Here are some guidelines to help you make a selection:

Quality: Look for tequilas made from a high-quality agave plant and produced using traditional methods. Brands with a reputation for craftsmanship and dedication to quality are often a good choice.
Aging: Choose your preferred aging period and style, from the vibrant and crisp notes of blanco tequila to the mellow nuances of reposado tequilas, or indulge in the rich complexity of añejo and extra añejo tequilas. Each category offers unique flavor profiles and levels of smoothness.
Flavor Profile: Consider the flavor profile you enjoy. Different tequilas can have distinct flavors ranging from sweet agave and caramel to citrus, spices, and oak. Read reviews or ask for recommendations to get an idea of the flavor profile of the tequila you are considering.
Smoothness: Pay attention to the smoothness of the tequila. Smoothness is often associated with higher quality and can enhance the sipping experience. Look for tequilas that are described as smooth, velvety, or refined.
Price: Determine your budget and explore tequilas within your price range. Excellent sipping tequilas are available under $100, offering a balance between quality and affordability.
Personal Preference: Choose a tequila that aligns with your taste and preferences. Everyone’s palate is unique, so it’s important to sample different tequilas and discover the ones that resonate with you.

Consider visiting tequila tastings or seeking recommendations from knowledgeable liquor stores or bar staff. Exploring different tequilas will help you find the sipping tequilas that suit your preferences and provide an enjoyable experience.