The Best Tequila Brands to Buy While in Mexico: Hidden Gems Not Found in the US

Mexico, the birthplace of tequila, is a haven for aficionados of this iconic spirit. While many well-known brands are available worldwide, some exquisite tequilas remain exclusive to their homeland, offering a unique opportunity for travelers to discover and savor these hidden gems. If you’re planning a trip to Mexico and wish to explore the best tequilas not found in the US, here are some top recommendations and where to find them.

1. Tequila Los Abuelos

Distillery: La Fortaleza

Location: Tequila, Jalisco

About: Tequila Fortaleza, also known as Los Abuelos, is a family-owned brand with a rich heritage dating back to the 19th century. It is renowned for its artisanal production methods, including traditional stone grinding and copper pot distillation. Fortaleza offers a range of tequilas, including Blanco, Reposado, and Añejo, each with a distinct flavor profile that captures the essence of traditional tequila-making.

Where to Find: You can visit the La Fortaleza distillery in Tequila, Jalisco, for a guided tour and tastings. Additionally, Fortaleza tequilas can be found in select high-end liquor stores and specialty shops throughout Jalisco.

2. Tequila Ocho

Distillery: La Alteña

Location: Arandas, Jalisco

About: Tequila Ocho is a single-estate tequila, meaning each bottle comes from a specific agave field harvested in a particular year. This approach highlights the terroir and the unique characteristics of each field. Tequila Ocho is known for its complexity and depth of flavor, making it a favorite among tequila enthusiasts.

Where to Find: Visit the La Alteña distillery in Arandas, Jalisco, to experience the craftsmanship behind Tequila Ocho. You can also find it in boutique liquor stores and bars specializing in premium tequilas across Jalisco and other parts of Mexico.

3. Tequila ArteNOM Selección

Distillery: Various

Location: Jalisco

About: Tequila ArteNOM Selección is a unique concept where each expression is curated from different distilleries, showcasing the diversity of tequila production in Jalisco. Each bottle highlights the expertise of a specific master distiller and the characteristics of their distillery’s terroir. The result is a collection of tequilas with distinct personalities and flavors.

Where to Find: ArteNOM Selección tequilas can be found in specialty liquor stores in Jalisco and other major cities in Mexico. Each bottle is a limited edition, so availability may vary.

4. Tequila G4

Distillery: El Pandillo

Location: Jesús María, Jalisco

About: Tequila G4 is produced by fourth-generation master distiller Felipe Camarena. Known for his innovative approach and commitment to quality, Camarena uses a unique blend of rainwater and spring water in the production process. G4 tequilas are celebrated for their purity, balance, and rich flavors.

Where to Find: Visit the El Pandillo distillery in Jesús María for a tour and tasting. G4 tequilas are also available in select liquor stores and premium bars throughout Jalisco.

5. Tequila Siembra Valles

Distillery: Cascahuin

Location: El Arenal, Jalisco

About: Tequila Siembra Valles is a small-batch tequila crafted using traditional methods and sustainable practices. Produced at the Cascahuin distillery, it is known for its authentic flavor and high-quality ingredients. Siembra Valles tequilas offer a true representation of the valley region of Jalisco, with earthy and vegetal notes.

Where to Find: You can find Siembra Valles tequilas at the Cascahuin distillery in El Arenal and in specialized liquor stores throughout the region.

6. Tequila Don Fulano

Distillery: La Tequileña

Location: Tequila, Jalisco

About: Don Fulano is a family-run brand that emphasizes the importance of terroir and traditional production methods. The agave is grown in the highlands of Jalisco, and the tequila is distilled at the La Tequileña distillery. Don Fulano offers a range of expressions, each with a unique flavor profile that reflects the highland agave’s characteristics.

Where to Find: Visit La Tequileña distillery in Tequila, Jalisco, for a tour and tasting. Don Fulano tequilas are also available in premium liquor stores in Jalisco and other parts of Mexico.

7. Tequila Cascahuin

Distillery: Cascahuin

Location: El Arenal, Jalisco

About: Cascahuin is a family-owned distillery that has been producing tequila since 1904. Known for its traditional methods and commitment to quality, Cascahuin tequilas are crafted with care and expertise. The brand offers a variety of expressions, including Blanco, Reposado, Añejo, and Extra Añejo.

Where to Find: You can visit the Cascahuin distillery in El Arenal for a comprehensive tour and tasting experience. Cascahuin tequilas are also available in select liquor stores throughout Jalisco.

8. Tequila Rey Sol

Distillery: Casa San Matías

Location: Tepatitlán, Jalisco

About: Rey Sol is a luxurious, extra-aged tequila produced by Casa San Matías, one of the oldest distilleries in Mexico. This premium tequila is aged for six years in French oak barrels, resulting in a rich, complex flavor with notes of vanilla, caramel, and dried fruit. The distinctive bottle, designed by artist Sergio Bustamante, makes Rey Sol a collector’s item.

Where to Find: Visit Casa San Matías in Tepatitlán for a tour and tasting. Rey Sol is also available in high-end liquor stores and specialty shops in Jalisco and other parts of Mexico.

9. Tequila Siete Leguas

Distillery: Siete Leguas

Location: Atotonilco El Alto, Jalisco

About: Siete Leguas is a historic brand with a strong commitment to traditional production methods. The agave is cooked in brick ovens, and the juice is extracted using a traditional tahona (stone wheel). Siete Leguas tequilas are known for their authentic flavor and high quality, with expressions ranging from Blanco to Extra Añejo.

Where to Find: You can visit the Siete Leguas distillery in Atotonilco El Alto for an immersive tour and tasting. Siete Leguas tequilas are also available in select liquor stores and premium bars throughout Jalisco.

10. Tequila Arette

Distillery: El Llano

Location: Tequila, Jalisco

About: Arette is produced by the Orendain family, one of the oldest tequila-producing families in Mexico. The brand is named after a famous Mexican horse that won a gold medal in the 1948 Olympics. Arette tequilas are crafted using traditional methods and offer a range of expressions with distinctive, well-balanced flavors.

Where to Find: Visit the El Llano distillery in Tequila, Jalisco, for a tour and tasting. Arette tequilas can also be found in specialized liquor stores throughout Jalisco.

Tips for Buying Tequila in Mexico

1. Visit Distilleries: Many distilleries offer tours that include tastings and the opportunity to purchase exclusive bottles directly from the source. This is a great way to learn about the production process and bring home a unique souvenir.
2. Specialty Liquor Stores: Look for boutique liquor stores and specialty shops in major cities like Guadalajara, Mexico City, and Tequila. These stores often carry rare and limited-edition tequilas not available elsewhere.
3. Markets and Fairs: Local markets and fairs can be a treasure trove for discovering unique tequilas. Vendors often sell artisanal products that reflect the region’s heritage and craftsmanship.
4. Ask for Recommendations: Don’t hesitate to ask locals for their recommendations. Bartenders, shop owners, and tequila enthusiasts can provide valuable insights and direct you to hidden gems.

Exploring the world of tequila in Mexico offers an unparalleled opportunity to discover exceptional brands and flavors not available in the US. Whether you’re a seasoned tequila connoisseur or a curious traveler, these hidden gems promise to enrich your appreciation for this iconic Mexican spirit. So, pack your bags, set your sights on Jalisco, and prepare to embark on a tequila adventure like no other. ¡Salud!