Last Updated on March 21, 2024 by Lydia Martin
Grocery stores do not normally sell liquor. However, Trader Joe’s stores have their house blends produced by various respected distilleries. But other than their house brand, what tequila does Trader Joe’s sell?
Let’s find out what tequilas you can find at Trader Joe’s grocery stores.
What Tequilas Can You Buy At Trader Joe’s?
Trader Joe’s sells tequila from various brands like George Clooney’s tequila, Casamigos, Don Julio Silver tequila, and the rest of the usual favorites.
However, there are also Trader Joe’s house brands like Trader Joe’s reposado tequila, Blanco tequila, and añejo. TJs Tequila is 100% from the agave [1] plant. Some stores are not permitted any liquor sales, but their New Mexico branch sells some.
Trader Joe’s Own Tequila
Trader Joe’s Blanco
Trader Joe’s Blanco tequila is their version of silver tequila. This Trader Joe’s tequila is part of their house brand that contains 40% alcohol. Its tequila Blanco has a peppery-lemon smell.
You can savor the spice without a harsh taste, making it good for sipping or as a mixer with your favorite margarita.
Trader Joe’s Añejo
Another tequila that Trader Joe’s sell is the añejo manufactured by Fabrica de Tequilas Finos distillery. This is the same distillery that creates Kah tequila, Cenote, and Villa one. Tequilas are not aged traditionally, but this añejo variant is rested between one to three years.
Trader Joe’s tequilas have that staple taste of sweet and spicy, which you will not miss with this Añejo spirit. It has a very smooth texture but is not as smooth as how Don Julio tequila is.
Read: What Tequilas are Compared to Kirkland Tequila?
Trader Joe’s Reposado
Trader Joe’s tequila reposado is from El Viejito. The piña fruit used for this variant is Tequilana Weber. These were cooked in stone or brick ovens and fermented in stainless steel tanks.
The outcome after two times distillations is an 80-proof reposado tequila. You can smell citrus and earthy flavors in this house brand.
Read: Does Walgreens Have Liquor?
Other Brands They Sell
Casamigos Tequila
Stores of Trader Joe’s sell tequila Casamigos, a famous tequila brand owned by George Clooney and friends. Initially, George and two friends simply wanted a smooth and savory spirit for personal consumption.
Eventually, they changed their mind and started manufacturing for the drinking public. It became a success until Diageo took interest and bought it from them for a billion dollars.
Tequila Campo Azul
Campo Azul is a classy tequila with a creamy texture with cedar, chamomile, vanilla, pepper, and ginger hints. They rested this spirit for four months to produce a neutral aroma.
They placed a unique hologram around the bottle’s neck to prevent fake reproductions. Also, the brand was graded by the Beverage Testing Institute with 92% in two different years.
Hornitos
Hornitos is one of the classic agave-tasting tequila. Notes of herbs and floral flavors accompany it. It is a good option if you want to buy liquor for your own drinking pleasure without spending so much.
Manufacturers consider this liquor a premium tequila though it is categorized as a mid-shelf bottle. It is a standard-priced liquor ideal for sipping and mixing.
Mi Campo
Mi Campo reposado is made of 100% blue agave. It was introduced to the US market in 2018 as an addition to the wines and spirits. It is manufactured by Constellation Brands, a big name in the liquor industry.
They said this spirit is aimed at millennials between the ages of 25-and 35. The flavor is an evident taste of agave mixed with local citrus produce. It is aged in oak wine barrels for three months.
Espolòn
Espolòn tequila is produced by Destiladora San Nicolas, one of the artisan distilleries in Jalisco, Mexico, owned by Gruppo Campari. Manufacturers carefully handcrafted these bottles to produce authentic blue weber tequila.
This bottle contains a unique blend of herbs and floral tastes with touches of pineapple. This tequila is good for mixed drinks, but it is also perfect for drinking neat.
Teremana
Teremana is famous not just because of its founder and chairman, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, but because of its very smooth texture. These tequilas are made in small batches as these are handcrafted.
The savor of alcohol is almost non-existent. Instead, it leaves a sweet and light tequila taste. The full flavor on the palate is cooked agave, but it leaves a peppery note with hints of vanilla.
Cazadores
Cazadores tequila is one of the buyer’s choices at the stores. It is a good tequila for sipping. However, it is the best tasting mix for margaritas because of its full flavor of agave, basil, and lemon blossom.
Tequila Cazadores Extra Añejo is ideal for slow sipping as it is rested in American oak barrels for at least three years. You will savor the richness of flavors of cinnamon with hints of roasted apples and nutmeg, and vanilla.
Milagro Blanco
Milagro Blanco is not yet an ultra-premium tequila like the other variant Milagro Select. But still, this one is a good tequila that has a mild roasted agave smell.
Other spirits have a strong agave taste which puts off some drinkers. Milagro focused on the refined smell but placed hints of sweet caramel and butterscotch flavors.
Also Read:
- Will Tequila Burn Fat?
- How Do You Store Tequila?
- Who Makes Kirkland Tequila?
- What Tequila is on Queen of the South?
Trader Joe’s Tequila Brands & Their Prices
| Tequila Brand | Size | Alcohol Proof | Average Price |
| Trader Joe’s Blanco | 750 ml | 80 | Around $19.99 |
| Trader Joe’s Añejo | 750 ml | 80 | Around $22.99 |
| Trader Joe’s Reposado | 750 ml | 80 | Around $19.99 |
| Teremana Reposado | 750 ml | 80 | Around $31.99 |
| Teremana Blanco | 750 ml | 80 | Around $27.99 |
| Milagro Blanco | 750 ml | 80 | Around $25.99 |
| Mi Campo Reposado | 750 ml | 80 | Around $21.99 |
| Mi Campo Blanco | 750 ml | 80 | Around $21.99 |
| Hornitos Reposado | 750 ml | 80 | Around $22.99 |
| Espolòn Reposado | 750 ml | 80 | Around $24.99 |
| Espolòn Blanco | 750 ml | 80 | Around $24.99 |
| Cazadores Reposado | 750 ml | 80 | Around $24.99 |
| Casamigos Blanco | 750 ml | 80 | Around $43.99 |
| Campo Azul Reposado | 750 ml | 80 | Around $13.99 |
| Campo Azul Blanco | 750 ml | 80 | Around $13.99 |
Why It’s Great To Buy Tequila At Trader Joe’s
It is great to buy tequila at TJs grocery stores because it sells tequilas at an affordable price. Their price is low because they buy liquor products from distilleries that mass produce alcohol. Trader Joe’s company also buys from brands that have low estate costs.
Trader Joe’s sells tequila from private labels. However, not all Trader Joe’s products come from a private label. They agree to sell their products at a low price, but in the same way, Trader Joe agrees to give the real meaning to a private label, keeping their company private.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Which store sells lower tequila prices, Trader Joe’s or Costco?
Trader Joe’s sells cheaper tequila compared to Costco. Apart from the lower price, you can easily buy liquor in their grocery stores without signing up for a membership. However, not all Trader Joe’s sells alcoholic beverages because some states do not allow grocery stores to sell them.
Who makes Trader Joe’s Blanco tequila?
Destiladora Gonzalez Gonzalez manufactures Trader Joe’s Blanco tequila. It is the same distillery that manufactures El Mayor and Exotico.
What kind of tequila does Trader Joe’s have?
Trader Joe’s typically offers a selection of tequilas, including well-known brands and their own private label options.
The specific inventory may vary by location and over time, so it’s recommended to check with your local Trader Joe’s for the current tequila offerings.
Is Espolon tequila good?
Yes, Espolon tequila is generally well-regarded for its quality and value. Espolon produces Blanco, Reposado, and Añejo expressions, each offering distinct characteristics.
Many consumers appreciate Espolon for its smooth taste, versatility in cocktails, and affordable pricing.
What’s the best tequila on the market right now?
Determining the “best” tequila is subjective and depends on individual preferences. Some widely recognized and acclaimed tequila brands include Patrón, Don Julio, Casa Noble, and Clase Azul.
The best tequila for you will depend on factors such as your taste preferences, the style of tequila you enjoy, and your budget.
Is Gran Clasico a good tequila?
As of my last update in January 2022, there isn’t a widely recognized tequila brand named “Gran Clasico.” If it’s a new release or a brand that gained recognition after my last update, it’s advisable to check reviews or ask for recommendations to determine its quality.
Always consider personal taste preferences when exploring different tequila options, as individual experiences may vary.
Does Trader Joe’s make tequila?
Trader Joe’s typically does not produce its own tequila. Instead, they carry a selection of tequilas, including various brands and possibly their own private label options.
The specific tequila offerings may vary by location and over time, so it’s advisable to check with your local Trader Joe’s for their current inventory.
What are the 3 types of tequila?
The three main types of tequila are:
Blanco (Silver or Plata): Unaged or minimally aged, typically clear in color with a fresh and vibrant taste.
Reposado: Aged in oak barrels for at least two months but less than a year, resulting in a slightly more complex flavor with hints of oak.
Añejo: Aged in oak barrels for at least one year but less than three years, offering a richer and smoother taste with pronounced oak and vanilla notes.
Is Jose Cuervo better than Espolon?
The preference between Jose Cuervo and Espolon is subjective and depends on individual taste. Jose Cuervo and Espolon are both well-known tequila brands with distinct characteristics.
Jose Cuervo is one of the oldest and most recognizable tequila brands, while Espolon is often praised for its quality and affordability. Some may prefer the traditional character of Jose Cuervo, while others may favor the smoothness and versatility of Espolon.
What is the number 1 ranked tequila?
Tequila rankings can be subjective and vary based on personal preferences and expert opinions. As of my last knowledge update in January 2022, specific rankings may have changed.
Some highly regarded tequila brands include Patron, Don Julio, Casa Noble, and Clase Azul. To find the current number 1 ranked tequila, it’s recommended to check recent reviews, competitions, and expert rankings.
Is Patrón or Don Julio better?
The preference between Patrón and Don Julio is subjective and depends on individual taste. Both Patrón and Don Julio are highly respected tequila brands known for their quality.
Don Julio is often praised for its smoothness and rich flavor profile, while Patrón is recognized for its versatility and refined taste. Ultimately, the “better” choice comes down to personal preferences.
What is the smoothest tequila for shots?
Tequila smoothness is subjective, but some tequilas known for their smooth qualities include:
Clase Azul Reposado: Aged in oak barrels for a smooth and complex flavor.
Fortaleza Blanco: Known for its silky texture and balanced taste.
Casamigos Blanco: Appreciated for its smooth and easy-drinking character.
Choosing the smoothest tequila for shots depends on individual taste preferences, so it’s recommended to explore different brands and expressions to find your preferred smooth tequila.
What is Mexico’s #1 tequila?
Determining Mexico’s number one tequila can be a complex matter, as preferences and opinions vary widely among tequila enthusiasts, industry experts, and consumers. However, one brand that consistently stands out in discussions of top-quality tequila is Casa Herradura.
Casa Herradura, also known simply as Herradura, is renowned for its commitment to traditional tequila production methods, premium quality, and rich history. Established in 1870 in the heart of Jalisco, Mexico, Herradura has become synonymous with excellence in tequila craftsmanship.
Herradura’s tequilas are made from 100% blue agave, carefully cultivated and harvested from the brand’s own agave fields. The agave is then cooked in traditional hornos (brick ovens) and distilled using copper pot stills, resulting in tequilas known for their smoothness, complexity, and depth of flavor.
One of Herradura’s most celebrated offerings is its Herradura Añejo, aged for a minimum of two years in oak barrels. This aging process imparts rich flavors of oak, caramel, and vanilla, making it a favorite among tequila aficionados.
While preferences may vary, Herradura consistently earns accolades and awards for its tequilas, solidifying its reputation as one of Mexico’s premier tequila producers and a top choice for discerning drinkers around the world.
What kind of tequila is the smoothest?
Tequila smoothness can be found across different types, but aged expressions like Reposado and Añejo tend to offer smoother profiles due to the influence of oak aging. Some consider extra añejo tequilas, aged for an extended period, as exceptionally smooth.
Examples include Gran Patrón Burdeos and Clase Azul Ultra. Ultimately, the smoothest tequila depends on personal taste, and exploring various brands and expressions can help identify your preferred smooth tequila.
Costco offers a variety of tequilas from different brands and producers, so the specific type of tequila available at Costco can vary depending on location and availability. Costco’s selection typically includes a range of tequilas, including blanco (silver), reposado (rested), añejo (aged), and extra añejo (extra aged) varieties.
Some well-known brands that have been available at Costco include Kirkland Signature, the store’s private label brand, which offers a range of tequilas sourced from various distilleries in Mexico. These tequilas are often produced using traditional methods and aged in oak barrels to achieve distinctive flavor profiles.
Additionally, Costco may carry tequilas from established brands such as Patrón, Don Julio, Casamigos, and Herradura, among others. These brands offer premium tequilas made from 100% blue agave and are known for their quality and craftsmanship.
It’s important to note that while Costco’s tequila offerings may vary, the store typically aims to provide high-quality products at competitive prices. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly option or a premium tequila for special occasions, Costco’s selection is likely to include options that cater to various tastes and preferences.
What tequila is the Kirkland tequila?
Kirkland Signature tequila is Costco’s private label brand, offering a range of tequilas sourced from various distilleries in Mexico. As a private label brand, Kirkland Signature works with different producers to create exclusive products for sale under the Costco name. This means that the specific tequila in the Kirkland Signature line may vary over time and across locations.
Kirkland Signature tequila is often produced using traditional methods, with a focus on quality and value. The tequilas are typically made from 100% blue agave, adhering to the standards set forth by the Tequila Regulatory Council (CRT) in Mexico. This ensures that Kirkland Signature tequilas meet the requirements for authentic tequila production and maintain the distinct flavor profile associated with the spirit.
While specific details about the distilleries and production methods used for Kirkland Signature tequilas may not always be publicly disclosed, Costco aims to provide its members with high-quality products at competitive prices. Kirkland Signature tequilas offer a range of options, including blanco (silver), reposado (rested), añejo (aged), and extra añejo (extra aged) varieties, catering to different tastes and preferences. Overall, Kirkland Signature tequila represents Costco’s commitment to delivering value and quality to its customers.
So, What Tequila Does Trader Joe’s Sell?
Trader Joe’s has almost everything, including liquors with high alcohol content, like beer, wine, and vodka. They also have the best tequila from other manufacturers such as Don Julio and Jose Cuervo to El Mayor and El Jimador.
They sell authentic liquors, which you can tell based on their straw color. Their house blends are also good tequilas. A bottle of Trader Joe’s liquor is of high quality despite its low price. This is why many people enjoy shopping at Trader Joe’s stores.
Reference:
