There are many tequila releases within the tequila industry, so it can be challenging to find the purest and most authentic bottle made from Mexico’s traditional production processes.
So, if you want to savor natural tequila, you’re at the right spot! We’ve scoured the agave fields and sampled the finest bottles to bring you the best additive-free tequila expressions.
Check our top picks below.
Table of Contents
Top 20 Best Additive Free Tequilas
1. Partida Añejo Tequila (PartidaDistillery)
Average Price:Around $54.99/750ml (Drizly)
Alcohol Content:Typically 40% ABV
Nose:Sunbaked earth, dried fruits, buttercream
Palate:Cinnamon, banana, cafe con leche, baking chocolate
Star Rating:★★★★★
Why We Like It:This is one of the brands that stand out for its unrivaled smoothness and character. Aged in ex-bourbon barrels, it delivers a refined aroma and rich flavor.
The standards of Mexican government ensure pure agave tequila, but it’s the flavors that truly define its excellence.” – Liquor Laboratory
This tequila does not use additives or artificial sweeteners but is flavorful. And since it’s additive-free, it’s best enjoyed neat to savor its complexity and refinement fully.
2. Alquimia Extra Anejo XIV Tequila (Distillery Grupo Tequilero México)
Average Price:Around $259.99/750ml (Drizly)
Alcohol Content:50% ABV
Nose:Caramel, dried fruit, cooked agave, smokiness
Palate:Sweet fruit, agaves, hint of heat
Star Rating:★★★★★
Why We Like It:Alquimia boasts an attractive, rich amber color and a complex aroma reflecting its impressive 14-year aging process. We like how the taste profile is enhanced by its higher alcohol content.
Since it is bottled pure, it’s ideal for sipping by the fireplace during winter. The finish is long-lasting while giving a warm aftertaste. Actually, this is an excellent alternative to Clase Azul.
3. Fuenteseca Reserva 7 Year Extra Añejo Tequila (Fuenteseca Distillery)
Average Price:Around $299/750ml (Tequila Matchmaker)
Alcohol Content:40% ABV
Nose:Cedar, cooked agaves, baking spice
Palate:Buttery, caramelized agave, oak, Chinese five-spice
Star Rating:★★★★★
Why We Like It:Made from 100% agave, grown in Jalisco, this 7-year-old tequila greets us with a warming vibe, opening a nice blend of aromas and flavors.
Its buttery mouthfeel and harmonious balance make it a luxurious treat if you want to drink tequila with complexity and sophistication.
4. Fortaleza Añejos Tequila (La Fortaleza Distillery)
Average Price:Around $97.19/750ml (Drizly)
Alcohol Content:40% ABV
Nose:Caramel, butterscotch, pineapple, peach, nutmeg
Palate:Thick and oil texture, toffee, citrus, hazelnuts
Star Rating:★★★★★
Why We Like It:This is a must-have if you want a perfectly-aged tequila, free from additives. You shouldn’t miss its rich, complex scent with a thick, soothing taste.
Among the agave spirits their distillery produces, this bottled tequila is one of our top favorites in terms of complexity and richness – plus the age and balance.
5. Terralta Blanco 110 Tequila (El PandilloDistillery)
Average Price:Around $46.17/750ml (Drizly)
Alcohol Content:55% ABV
Nose:Ethanol, agaves, clear citrus
Palate:Agave, delightful sweetness, rounded, spicy, cooked agave, white pepper, minerals
Star Rating:★★★★★
Why We Like It:Besides being free from additives, we like the higher proof of this tequila Blanco. While ethanol initially grabs attention, it gracefully yields to the dominance of agave.
We also noticed the distinctive mineral notes, which set it apart from others, and we liked the noticeable sweetness. If you’re a fan of high-proof tequila, this one is a must-try!
6. G4 Añejos Tequila (El PandilloDistillery)
Average Price:Around $86.99/750ml (Drizly)
Alcohol Content:40% ABV
Nose:Agave, gentle smokiness
Palate:Soft floral, peppery tones, smoky highlights
Star Rating:★★★★☆
Why We Like It:This bottle undergoes a delicate 18-month aging process, preserving the tequila’s natural flavors while adding a unique character.
We like the pleasing balance on the nose, complemented by the smoky highlights on the mouth. If we like drinking tequila, that’s gentle yet flavorful, this is our go-to choice.
7. Siete Leguas Añejo Tequila (El Centenario & La Vencedora Distilleries)
Average Price:Around $66.84/750ml (Drizly)
Alcohol Content:40% ABV
Nose:Fruity, cooked agaves, buttery notes
Palate:Amber, subtle oak finish
Star Rating:★★★★☆
Why We Like It:The Siete Leguas tequila from El Centenario and La Vencedora Distilleries is a full-bodied drink with attractive silvery and golden hues. We light the fragrance complemented with pleasant fruit notes and delicate buttery hints.
Twice-distilled in copper pots and aged in bourbon tanks, we get to enjoy tequila with aromatic intensity, making it a treat for connoisseurs looking for well-aged and nuanced Añejos.
8. Cazcanes No. 9 Tequila (Cazcanes Distillery)
Average Price:Around $99.99/750ml (Drizly)
Alcohol Content:40% ABV
Nose:Floral notes, sweet agaves, candy corn
Palate:Earthy, sweet, black pepper, anise
Star Rating:★★★★☆
Why We Like It:Cazcanes No. 9 is a super transparent tequila with clean and earthy notes, providing a balanced and inviting profile.
We particularly like its exceptionally smooth finish, leaving a long-lasting impression of floral notes and black peppercorn. Overall, it’s a well-rounded tequila that delivers a pleasing complexity.
9. Patron Añejo Tequila (HaciendaPatrón Distillery)
Average Price:Around $62.69/750ml (Drizly)
Alcohol Content:40% ABV
Nose:Molasses, raisins, oak
Palate:Smooth, oak, agave sweetness
Star Rating:★★★★☆
Why We Like It:We like this handcrafted tequila made from the finest Weber Blue Agave. It’s carefully distilled in small batches and aged in a unique combination of French oak, Hungarian oak, and used American whiskey barrels.
With no additives or added sweeteners, it gives a smooth and subtly sweet character, making it a pleasant choice for those who appreciate well-balanced distilled Anejos.
10. Mijenta Reposados Tequila (Casa de Arandas Distillery)
Average Price:Around $69.99/750ml (MSRP)
Alcohol Content:40% ABV
Nose:Watermelon, bananas, cinnamon, oak, cloves
Palate:Peppery, cinnamon, fruity, sweet agave,
Star Rating:★★★★☆
Why We Like It:Besides being additive-free, we recommend Mijenta [1] for those who want a mature and fuller expression.
The scent gives a delightful mix of fruity and spicy notes with a well-balanced taste. The long, crisp finish adds to its appeal, making it one of our favorite tequila brands.
Also Read:
- What are the Different Types of Tequila?
- What’s the Best Tequila For Cocktails?
- What’s the Best Tequila To Give As A Gift?
- What’s the Healthiest Tequila?
11. Tequila Ocho Reposado Widow Jane Tequila (La AlteñaDistillery)
Average Price:Around $87.35/750ml (Drizly)
Alcohol Content:40% ABV
Nose:Agave, brown sugar, leather, light spices
Palate:Sweet, brown sugar, agave, light oak, cinnamon, white pepper
Star Rating:★★★★☆
Why We Like It:We like how this Tequila Ocho provides a captivating scent with the right blend of sweetness. While the finish offers a mild heat surprise, it aligns well with the overall balance.
Aging-wise, this bottled Tequila Ocho is an excellent sample of the skill and craftsmanship of the distillery. The nuanced flavors emerge beautifully in every sip.
12. ArteNOM Seleccion de 1414 ReposadoTequila (El Ranchito Distillery)
Average Price:Around $64.99/750ml (Drizly)
Alcohol Content:40% ABV
Nose:Cooked agaves, dried figs, garden herbs
Palate:Pleasant sweetness, light herbal notes
Star Rating:★★★★☆
Why We Like It:This Reposado [2] stands out for its unique herbal profile. The blend of aromas and flavors gives a distinctive experience that sets it apart from other tequilas and brands.
We like the pleasant sweetness and fresh herb finish, making it an intriguing and enjoyable choice for any tequila enthusiast.
13. G4 Blanco Tequila (El PandilloDistillery)
Average Price:Around $50.92/750ml (Drizly)
Alcohol Content:40% ABV
Nose:Delicate minerality, agave
Palate:Clear, crisp, silky
Star Rating:★★★★☆
Why We Like It:G4 Blanco is the perfection of purity, made solely from Blue Weber agave, spring water, collected rainwater, and Grandfather’s yeast.
No additive is present, so it’s one of the purest tequilas you can find. It’s an authentic and approachable expression that’ll surely appeal to tequila lovers with its delightful spiciness and peppery notes.
14. El Tesoro Tequila Reposado Tequila (La Alteña Distillery)
Average Price:Around $59.39/750ml (Drizly)
Alcohol Content:40% ABV
Nose:Smoky oak, fruit, dill
Palate:Robust oak, agaves, smoke, pepper
Star Rating:★★★★☆
Why We Like It:We like the sweet and smoky profile of this tequila. Its robust blend, infused with smokiness, provides a well-rounded tasting experience.
We find the pepper-forward finish an intriguing highlight of this tequila. It’s 100% agave, with no use of additives, and twice-distilled in copper pots, making for its satisfying taste profile.
15. Volans Reposado Single Barrel Tequila (El Pandillo Distillery)
Average Price:Around $75.99/750ml (Drizly)
Alcohol Content:Typically 40% ABV
Nose:Light barrel notes, agave
Palate:Agave-forward, subtle barrel influence
Star Rating:★★★★☆
Why We Like It:Although this tequila undergoes gentle aging, it has measured complexity alongside subtle aromas and flavors. It’s not overpowering, so the agave essence shines through.
We find this an excellent alternative to the limited production Reposado tequila, Loco Ambar. If you like nuanced tequilas, Volans should not miss your list.
16. Fortaleza Blanco Tequila (La Fortaleza Distillery)
Average Price:Around $59.18/750ml (Drizly)
Alcohol Content:Typically 40% ABV
Nose:Citrus, rich agave, black pepper, vegetal complexity
Palate:Citrusy, basil, olive
Star Rating:★★★★☆
Why We Like It:If you like a unique tequila experience, try Fortaleza Blanco [3]. It delights the senses with pleasant aromas and a harmonious blend of flavors.
We find the long and deep finish a bit complex yet incredibly easy to savor. It’s one of the spirits showcasing the artistry of the craft.
17. Tequila Cascahuin Tahona Blanco (Cascahuin Distillery)
Average Price:Around $104.99/750ml (Total Wine)
Alcohol Content:42% ABV
Nose:Agave, mint, olive, orange peel, white pepper
Palate:Intense agave, white pepper, mint, vegetal, earthy, grassy
Star Rating:★★★★☆
Why We Like It:Tequila Cascahuin impresses us with its buttery texture and well-balanced character. The aromas, including mint, citrus, and earthy notes of Tequila Cascahuin, make it a delight for the senses.
The complex flavor of Tequila Cascahuin boasts a rich agave character, leading to a long, flavorful finish. Speaking of additive-free tequilas, Tequila Cascahuin is a standout choice.
18. Don Fulano Reposado Tequila (Don Fulano Distillery)
Average Price:Around $64.99/750ml (Drizly)
Alcohol Content:40% ABV
Nose:Agave, oak, vanilla hints
Palate:Mature agave, balanced oak, smooth
Star Rating:★★★★☆
Why We Like It:Don Fulano Reposado’s careful aging for eight months in new French oak barrels results in a rich, balanced tequila.
We like its full-bodied agave flavor that complements the taste of oak, providing a smooth profile.
Like Tequila Cascahuin, this tequila is recommended for those seeking well-crafted, flavorful, yet additive-free Blanco tequilas.
19. Arette Fuerte Artesanal 101 Blanco Tequila (El Llano Distillery)
Average Price:Around $69.99/750ml (Drizly)
Alcohol Content:50.5% ABV
Nose:Brine, agaves, subtle ethanol
Palate:Abundant agaves, spiciness, slight vegetal note
Star Rating:★★★★☆
Why We Like It:If you like something briny with a restrained touch of alcohol, Arette is one of the best tequilas you can find. The flavors combine with a pleasant spiciness on the mouth, which we find unique.
Like Tequila Cascahuin, this tequila offers solid quality – 100% organic and free from additives. Despite its high proof, it maintains a relatively smooth character, adding to its appeal.
20. ArteNom 1146 Tequila (DistilleryLa Tequileña)
Average Price:Around $98.99/750ml (Drizly)
Alcohol Content:40% ABV
Nose:Complex, rich agave, hints of oak
Palate:Underlying complexity
Star Rating:★★★★☆
Why We Like It:ArteNOM 1146 is a 100% Blue Weber Agave tequila, distilled twice in column and copper pot stills, containing no additives.
“American oak provides sweet flavors of vanilla, caramel, maple, dried fruits and, of course, agave. They all combine to create a beautiful complexity for the palate.” – Carlos C. Camarena, Master Distiller
As it undergoes meticulous aging, it delivers an unparalleled complexity that makes tequila worth savoring. This is a well-balanced and intricate Añejo.
*Note: The star rating was determined based on a blind test, with 1 being the lowest and 5 being the highest. Each product was evaluated on its overall quality, flavor profile, complexity, smoothness, and overall enjoyment.
FAQs
What’s the best additive-free reposado tequila?
The best additive-free reposados include Fortaleza, El Tesoro, Volans, Mijenta, Don Fulano, Tequila Ocho, and Artenom 1414, among other brands.
These tequilas offer rich agaves, authentic craftsmanship, and a smooth, well-balanced profile.
How do you know if tequila is additive-free?
To know if tequila is additive-free, examine the label for the “100% agave” designation, indicating pure agaves without added sugars or additives. But how is tequila different from other alcohols?
What is additive-free tequila?
Additive-free tequila refers to tequila that is produced without the addition of any artificial flavors, colors, or other additives during the distillation and bottling process. It is made using only agave and water, adhering to traditional methods of tequila production.
Why is additive-free tequila important?
Additive-free tequila is important for consumers who value purity and authenticity in their spirits. By avoiding additives, the tequila maintains the natural flavors and characteristics of the agave plant, resulting in a more genuine and higher-quality product.
How can I identify additive-free tequila?
Look for tequila brands that explicitly state on their labels or marketing materials that their product is additive-free. Additionally, certifications such as “100% agave” or “certified organic” can indicate that the tequila is free from additives.
Are all tequilas labeled as “100% agave” additive-free?
While most tequilas labeled as “100% agave” are free from additives, it’s essential to check the label for any additional information regarding additives. Some brands may still add small amounts of permitted additives despite being labeled as 100% agave.
What are some common additives in tequila?
Common additives in tequila include caramel coloring, glycerin, and artificial flavors. These additives may be used to enhance the appearance, sweetness, or flavor profile of the tequila.
What are the benefits of drinking additive-free tequila?
Drinking additive-free tequila allows consumers to enjoy the true flavors of the agave plant without the interference of artificial additives. It may also reduce the risk of adverse reactions to certain additives for those with sensitivities or allergies.
Can I find additive-free tequila at different price points?
Yes, there are additive-free tequilas available at various price points, ranging from affordable options to premium brands. While price can sometimes be an indicator of quality, it’s essential to research specific brands and read reviews to find a high-quality additive-free tequila within your budget.
In Summary
Among the alcoholic beverages mentioned here, Partida Añejo stands tall as the best tequila free from additives.
We like its remarkable quality, affordability (cheaper than Don Julio), flavor, complexity, and smoothness, making for a satisfying sipping experience. It truly deserves a spot in anyone’s home bar.
Yet, the beauty of the tequila world lies in its diversity. So, it’s best to savor various options to discover the one that resonates most with your unique palate.
References:
- https://www.forbes.com/sites/karlaalindahao/2022/05/02/best-tequilas-mijenta-anejo-2022/
- https://www.esquire.com/food-drink/drinks/a24413/reposado-facts-0913/
- https://www.nytimes.com/2013/07/31/dining/reviews/blanco-tequila-the-great-divide.html
- https://www.forbes.com/sites/jordilippemcgraw/2020/05/05/4-things-you-probably-didnt-know-about-tequila/
