Is Tequila Stronger Than Vodka? (2023 Updated)

Last Updated on April 15, 2023 by Lydia Martin

The standard ABV for distilled spirits ranges from 35%-60%. Vodka and tequila average 40%, which places them within the bracket. However, these two alcoholic drinks also contain higher than the usual ABV variants. The question is, which of the two alcoholic beverages is stronger. 

So, is tequila stronger than vodka? We did thorough research to find a solid answer.

Is Tequila Really Stronger Than Vodka?

The standard strength of tequila and vodka is generally the same. Pure tequila percentage maxes at 110 proof, which is a pure blue agave plant product with the NOM (Norma Oficial Mexicana) stamp. 

On the other hand, vodka can reach up to 192 proof, which is much higher if you compare the two drinks. However, not all varieties have high alcohol content. If we base it on standard strength, the two have the same strength in each shot. 

ABV Comparison 

The ABV or the alcohol by volume of vodka vs tequila differs depending on the brand or variant. However, if we look at the standard ABV of vodka and tequila, it is the same amount as the standard content on a strong rum or brandy, which sits 40-60%. 

The alcohol by volume (ABV) of tequila and vodka for some brands are higher than the rest, though. Moreso, the alcohol percentage of tequila’s strongest variant reaches 60%, while vodka is at 96% ABV. 

Some of the Strongest Vodkas

Devil’s Springs

Devil Springs vodka is one of the strongest vodkas in the market. It contains 80% alcohol. This brand specifically wrote that it is not advised to be drunk neat on their bottle. 

Those who dared to do it have sworn that it is like drinking rubbing alcohol [1]. However, Devil’s Spring may be high in alcohol, but it is also one of the best base mixtures in cocktail drinks. 

Balkan 176

Balkan 176 has above-average alcohol since it contains 88% ABV. This distilled spirit ensures proper warning on whoever decides to drink it. This strong alcohol has 13 health warnings which include a version in braille. 

They do not suggest sniffing or drinking it neat. It is far from Bellion Vodka, which is safer for the liver even when drunk straight. 

Spirytus Rektyfikowany

Spirytus Rektyfikowany could be the strongest alcohol drink you can find in a liquor store. However, the alcoholic bite you experience when drinking alcohol is not something you get from Spirytus vodka. A very strong rum is nothing compared to the 96% of Spirytus vodka, now legal in the US.

Some of the Strongest Tequilas 

Tapatío Blanco

Tapatío Blanco is one of the stronger tequila products from the agave plants. It has definitely passed tequila’s production requirements, where ABV should be between 35%-55%. This alcohol is at 50% and is also one of the best-tasting tequilas sold. 

El Luchador

If you want to be drunk faster, tequila El Luchador can be your best pick. It has a blended flavor of fresh agave and lemon pepper which is great, taken neat, and mixed in drinks. 

It is not as healthy as Hapsburg Absinthe, but it is as potent. With 55% ABV, tequila shots with El Luchador could be a very enjoyable experience. But, does tequila really make you horny?

Dulce Vida

Dulce Vida is another tequila brand high in alcohol. This tequila is 80 proof and has 40% ABV. However, this is also one of the most-craved bottles. 

Its name defines its flavor as “sweet life” as it has a complex flavor of mint and lemon with hints of olive. Its smooth texture, along with those flavors, does give sweetness to a drinker’s life. 

Read:

• Our Favorite Tequila Jokes
• Our Favorite Tequila Quotes
• Will Tequila Cause a Hangover?
• What Company Makes Kirkland Tequila?
• What Tequilas Are Sold At Trader Joe’s?

FAQs

Does tequila get you drunk faster than vodka?

Yes, tequila can get you drunk faster than vodka if it has higher alcohol in it. Regardless of whether you drink tequila or vodka, your drunkenness would depend on your tolerance. If you drink alcohol like Smirnoff vodka, Golden grain, or Sunset rum without control, you will have the same state of intoxication. 

Which is better for beginners, tequila or vodka?

Tequila is better for beginners because it offers more flavor than pure vodka. Due to numerous distillations, vodka ends up tasting more like plain alcohol. However, the younger the tequila, the stronger its alcohol bite is. Most people drink tequila neat, but they can also try some flavorful tequila cocktails. But, will tequila make you sick?

Final Cut 

So, is tequila stronger than vodka? They generally have the same standard alcohol content, which sits around 40%. However, vodka is the stronger liquor based on some vodka alcohol percentage that reaches 96% ABV. Drinking vodka gives minimal hangovers despite high levels of alcohol, though.

Tequila is not the strongest drink, but it does affect a person differently, especially if you have more than what’s recommended. But then again, an expert recommends tequila for numerous health benefits, including blood sugar stability. According to some, drinking tequila could be beneficial.   

Reference:

1. https://www.webmd.com/first-aid/ss/rubbing-alcohol-uses