Margaritas are more than just a cocktail; they are an experience—a celebration in a glass. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a sunny afternoon, or just unwinding after a long day, a well-made margarita can elevate the moment. But the secret to crafting the perfect margarita begins with the tequila.  With tequila as the fastest growing spirit category, the choices can feel overwhelming.  Read on for our helpful guide as we break it down! 

WHAT IS TEQUILA?

Tequila is a distinct spirit with strict regulations that define what it is and how it's made. To be classified as tequila, the spirit must be produced in specific regions of Mexico, primarily in the state of Jalisco and a few other designated areas. It must be made from at least 51% Blue Weber agave, though the best tequilas are crafted from 100% Blue Weber agave. The process involves harvesting the piñas, or hearts of the agave plant, cooking them to convert the starches into sugars, and then fermenting and distilling the juice. These strict production standards ensure that tequila maintains its unique character, rooted in Mexican tradition and the terroir of the agave fields.

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE "ADDITIVE-FREE"? 

When a tequila is labeled as "additive-free," it means that no artificial flavors, colors, sweeteners, or other additives have been used during the production process. Tequila regulations allow for certain additives to be used to enhance flavor, color, or sweetness, but some producers choose to make their tequila without these enhancements to maintain the purity and authenticity of the spirit.

Additive-free tequilas are often prized by purists and connoisseurs because they offer a more genuine expression of the agave plant and the traditional production methods. The flavors in additive-free tequila come solely from the agave, the fermentation process, and, if applicable, the aging in barrels. This approach respects the natural taste of the agave and the skill of the distiller, resulting in a tequila that reflects the true essence of the ingredients and the craftsmanship behind it.

THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF TEQUILA

Before choosing the best tequila for your margaritas, it’s essential to understand the different types:

Blanco (Silver) Tequila: 

• Profile: Clear, unaged, or aged for a very short period of time
• Taste: Pure agave flavor, with citrus and peppery notes.
• Best For: Classic margaritas. Its bold, fresh taste cuts through the citrus and sweetness giving you that sharp, authentic margarita experience.  

Reposado Tequila:

• Profile: Aged between 2 months and a year in oak barrels.
• Taste: A smoother, more complex flavor with hints of vanilla, caramel and oak.
• Best For: Margaritas with a twist.  If you like your margarita with a bit of depth and a richer profile, reposado is your go-to. 

Añejo Tequila: 

• Profile: Aged for 1 to 3 years in oak barrels.
• Taste: Rich and complex with flavors of spice, vanilla and oak
• Best For: Sipping.  While añejo can make an exquisite margarita, it’s often best enjoyed neat to appreciate its full complexity.

Extra Añejo Tequila:

• Profile: Aged over 3 years in oak barrels.
• Taste: Deeply complex, almost cognac-like, with intense flavors of dark chocolate, dried fruit, and coffee.
• Best For: Savoring. Mixing extra añejo in a margarita is generally considered overkill, as its nuanced flavors can get lost.

Mezcal: 

• A category of its own - check out our article here where we dive into the differences between tequila and mezcal. 

TOP 5 TEQUILAS FOR MARGARITAS

Check out our top 5 list of tequilas.  All are a mid-price point and guarantee the perfect margarita (when paired with Sol Squeeze of course). 

1. Misguided Spirits Blanco:

• Why It’s Great: Bartenders know how to craft a great cocktail, so of course they are going to make a great tequila.  Misguided Spirits was made by bartenders, so it's the perfect addition to your home bar. 
• Flavor Profile: Bright and crisp, with pronounced agave notes, a hint of citrus, and a smooth finish that makes it an excellent choice for a refreshing, straightforward margarita.
• Check it out here!

2. Inspiro Rosa Reposado:

• Why It’s Great: Inspiro tequila is made by women, for women!  From the founder, to the master distiller, production and getting it on to shelves - it's an incredible tequila enjoyed neat or mixed with your favorite cocktail (even the men will love it).  The blanco tequila is great for margaritas, but if you want to add a depth of flavor try the Rosa Reposado version.  It starts with their blanco tequila and then aged in the finest rose wine barrels from France, which results in a natural, gorgeous pink hue and incredible flavor.  I recommend sipping this one neat as well! All Inspiro tequilas are additive free!
• Flavor Profile: Light and silky with notes of vanilla, berries, and roasted pineapple
• Check it out here!

3. Ghost Blanco:

• Why It’s Great: Ghost Tequila is known for its unique spicy kick, infused with a touch of ghost pepper. It’s perfect for those who like a little heat in their margaritas, adding an unexpected twist that pairs well with the citrusy flavors of the cocktail.  Don't be scared of this one, it'll quickly become a favorite!  Pair it with a Mango Margarita for the perfect combination of sweet and heat! 
• Flavor Profile: Bold and spicy, with a warm heat from the ghost pepper that lingers pleasantly alongside the crisp agave notes.
• Check it out here!

4. Teremana Blanco:

• Why It’s Great: Teremana Blanco, created by Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, is a high-quality tequila that’s both approachable and versatile. Its clean, bright taste makes it an ideal base for classic margaritas, allowing the lime and other ingredients to shine.
• Flavor Profile: Crisp and fresh, with a clean agave flavor, citrus undertones, and a smooth finish that’s perfect for a refreshing margarita.
• Check it out here!

5. Solento Reposado:

• Why It’s Great: Solento Reposado is a certified organic tequila that stands out for its smoothness and subtle complexity. It’s aged for nine months, giving it a rich flavor that enhances the depth of a margarita without overpowering it. Priced a little higher than others, I recommend sipping neat and only mixing for a special occasion when you really want to WOW someone. 
• Flavor Profile: Light and smooth, with delicate notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak that add a sophisticated touch to any margarita.
• Check it out here!

CONCLUSION

Choosing the best tequila for your margaritas ultimately comes down to personal preference. Whether you prefer the bright, bold flavors of a blanco or the smooth complexity of a reposado, the right tequila will transform your margarita from good to unforgettable. So, next time you’re stocking up your bar, keep these tequilas in mind—and cheers to crafting the perfect margarita!