Tequila has come a long way from being just a party shooter. With its diverse flavour profiles, artisanal distillation methods, and smooth sippability, this Mexican spirit is winning over first-time drinkers around the world. But stepping into the world of tequila can be overwhelming—do you start with a Blanco, a Reposado, or an Añejo? And which brands are reliable for a smooth first experience?
Whether you’re sipping neat, trying a classic margarita, or looking for premium agave options, here’s a guide to the Tequila Brands every newcomer should explore.
Note: Tequila is categorized into five types based, namely – Blanco, Reposado, Añejo, Extra Añejo, and Joven.
1. Patrón Silver
Type: Blanco
Best For: Sipping or cocktails
Why Try It: Patrón is one of the most recognizable tequila brands globally and a solid choice for beginners. Smooth, slightly peppery, and citrusy, Patrón Silver is distilled in small batches using 100% Blue Weber agave.
Price in India (Approx.): ₹6,000 – ₹8,000 (750ml)
2. Don Julio Blanco
Type: Blanco
Best For: Margaritas or sipping neat
Why Try It: Don Julio Blanco has a crisp agave flavour with hints of citrus. It’s a favorite among bartenders and first-time drinkers because of its easy-drinking quality and balance.
Price in India (Approx.): ₹5,500 – ₹7,500 (750ml)
3. Olmeca Altos Plata
Type: Blanco
Best For: Affordable cocktails
Why Try It: Known for its value and flavour, Olmeca Altos Plata is a budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on quality. Made from highland agave and cooked in brick ovens, it has a sweet, herbal taste with a peppery finish.
Price in India (Approx.): ₹3,500 – ₹4,500 (750ml)
4. Herradura Reposado
Type: Reposado
Best For: First step into aged tequilas
Why Try It: Herradura was one of the first brands to commercially release Reposado tequila. Aged for 11 months, it delivers flavours of vanilla, oak, and spice—perfect for someone curious about the depth ageing can bring.
Price in India (Approx.): ₹6,500 – ₹8,000 (750ml)
5. Casamigos Blanco
Type: Blanco
Best For: Casual sipping
Why Try It: Co-founded by George Clooney, Casamigos Blanco is ultra-smooth, almost sweet, and very approachable for first-timers. It’s a celebrity-backed brand that lives up to its reputation.
Price in India (Approx.): ₹7,000 – ₹9,000 (750ml)
6. 1800 Silver
Type: Blanco
Best For: Versatile use
Why Try It: 1800 Silver is known for its crisp, clean taste and smooth finish. It works equally well in cocktails or as a sipper and is a great mid-range option for experimenting with tequila-based drinks.
Price in India (Approx.): ₹4,500 – ₹6,000 (750ml)
7. El Jimador Reposado
Type: Reposado
Best For: Affordable aged tequila
Why Try It: This brand offers one of the best budget tequila options in the aged category. With six months of barrel ageing, El Jimador Reposado has a golden hue and notes of oak, vanilla, and roasted agave.
Price in India (Approx.): ₹3,000 – ₹4,000 (750ml)
8. Espolòn Blanco
Type: Blanco
Best For: Cocktails with a twist
Why Try It: Espolòn is a favourite among bartenders for its bold label art and equally bold flavour. The Blanco variant is fruity, slightly floral, and has a zesty agave-forward punch that makes it ideal for tequila cocktails.
Price in India (Approx.): ₹3,500 – ₹4,500 (750ml)
9. Cazadores Reposado
Type: Reposado
Best For: Food pairings
Why Try It: Aged in new American oak barrels for up to 12 months, this Reposado is mellow yet complex. With hints of cinnamon, vanilla, and a smoky undertone, it’s great for pairing with Mexican food or grilled meats.
Price in India (Approx.): ₹4,000 – ₹5,500 (750ml)
10. Codigo 1530 Rosa
Type: Rosa (Blanco rested in wine barrels)
Best For: Adventurous beginners
Why Try It: For first-timers who want something offbeat, Codigo Rosa is a pink-hued tequila aged in uncharred Napa Cabernet French white oak barrels. It offers a floral, delicate taste with a smooth finish.
Price in India (Approx.): ₹10,000+ (750ml)
Tips for First-Time Tequila Drinkers
- Start with Blanco: Clear and unaged, it’s closest to pure agave flavour.
- Use it in cocktails: Try classic drinks like margaritas or palomas for a gentler introduction.
- Sip, don’t shoot: Quality tequila is made for slow sipping, not quick shots.
- Check for 100% agave: Always look for brands that use 100% Blue Weber agave for the best experience.
Summing Up
Exploring tequila brands for the first time doesn’t have to be intimidating. From smooth and sweet Blancos to subtly aged Reposados, there’s a world of flavour to discover. Whether you lean toward affordability, elegance, or something a little daring, these beginner-friendly options ensure your tequila journey starts on the right sip.
