Tequila is a popular and versatile spirit that has gained a reputation for being a party drink, but it is so much more than that.
There are many different tequila brands on the market, ranging from affordable options to premium, high-end brands. In this article, we will take a look at some of the best tequila in South Africa.
From smooth, refined flavors to rich, complex profiles, these brands offer something for every taste and occasion. Whether you are a tequila connoisseur or just starting to explore the world of tequila, these brands are sure to impress.
What is tequila?
Tequila is a type of alcohol that is made from the blue agave plant, which is native to the area around the city of Tequila, 65 km (40 mi) northwest of Guadalajara, and in the central highlands of the state of Jalisco, Mexico.
To make tequila, the leaves of the agave plant are harvested and the plant’s core, called the piña, is removed. The piñas are then roasted and crushed to extract their juice, which is fermented and distilled to produce tequila.
Tequila is most commonly made in the form of a white spirit that is aged for a minimum of two months, although it can also be aged for longer periods of time to produce a more complex flavor.
Tequila is typically served in small glasses called “caballitos,” and is often consumed neat or as part of a mixed drink, such as a margarita. It is also a common ingredient in many traditional Mexican dishes and sauces.
Types of tequila
There are several types of tequila in South Africa, which are differentiated based on the length of aging, the type of agave plant used, and the production process. The main types of tequila are:
- Blanco (white) tequila: This is a clear, unaged tequila that is bottled immediately after distillation. It is the purest form of tequila and has a strong, agave-forward flavor.
- Joven (young) tequila: This is a blend of blanco tequila and either reposado or añejo tequila, which has been aged in oak barrels. It has a smoother, more complex flavor than blanco tequila.
- Reposado (rested) tequila: This type of tequila is aged in oak barrels for at least two months, but less than a year. It has a smoother flavor than blanco tequila, with hints of oak and vanilla from the barrel aging.
- Añejo (aged) tequila: This type of tequila is aged in oak barrels for at least one year, but less than three years. It has a rich, complex flavor, with strong notes of oak, vanilla, and caramel from the barrel aging.
- Extra añejo (extra aged) tequila: This is a relatively new category of tequila that is aged in oak barrels for at least three years. It has a smooth, refined flavor with a long, complex finish.
In addition to these categories, there are also other types of tequila that are differentiated based on the type of agave plant used or the production process.
For example, “100% agave” tequila is made with only the juice of the agave plant, while “mixto” tequila is made with a blend of agave juice and other sugars.
There are also “single estate” tequilas, which are made from agave plants grown on a single estate, and “single barrel” tequilas, which are made from a single barrel of agave juice that has been aged for a specific period of time.
Top 10 Tequila Brands in South Africa
The price is a good starting point. Tequila doesn’t come cheap, and poor quality tequila won’t be made from 100% blue agave plant, but a combination including ingredients like glucose and fructose.
El Jimador
El Jimador has a range of tequilas, including Blanco, Reposado, and Añejo.
The Blanco has a crisp and clean flavour with hints of agave and citrus, making it perfect for mixing in cocktails like Margaritas and Palomas. The Reposado is aged for six months in American oak barrels, giving it a smooth taste with notes of vanilla and caramel. The Añejo is aged for 12 months, resulting in a rich and complex flavour with a long finish.
Overall, El Jimador offers quality tequilas that are affordable and perfect for mixing. This might be the best budget tequila available in South Africa.
Tequila Ocho
Tequila Ocho is a brand that was founded in 2008 by Carlos Camarena and Tomas Estes. The brand aims to showcase the concept of terroir in tequila, similar to how it is done in wine. Carlos Camarena is a fifth-generation agave farmer and tequilero, while Tomas Estes is known for promoting tequila globally and has authored “The Tequila Ambassador.”
The brand is deeply connected to the land, traditions, and people. It uses Highland agave for its unique expressions and is known for being balanced, complex, and easy to drink. The production process involves using stone clay ovens for cooking the agave, tahona/roller mill milling, wood tanks for open-air fermentation, and copper pot distillation done twice.
Jose Cuervo Tradicional Reposado
Jose Cuervo Tradicional Reposado is made with 100% blue agave and aged for six months in oak barrels. It has a smooth and balanced taste with notes of vanilla, caramel, and oak. This tequila is perfect for traditionalists who appreciate a classic tequila taste without any added flavours or gimmicks. Overall, Jose Cuervo Tradicional Reposado is a great option for those who prefer a more traditional tequila experience.
Patron Tequila
Patron Tequila is a premium tequila that comes in several varieties, including Silver, Reposado, Añejo, and Extra Añejo.
The Silver has a crisp and clean taste with notes of citrus and agave, while the Reposado is aged for six months in oak barrels, resulting in a smooth and mellow flavour with hints of vanilla and caramel.
The Añejo is aged for 12-15 months, giving it a rich and complex taste with a long finish. The Extra Añejo is aged for over three years, resulting in an exceptionally smooth and luxurious taste. Patron Tequila is best for special occasions when you want to treat yourself to a premium tequila experience, it is known worldwide as one of the best tequila brands.
Don Julio Tequila
Don Julio Tequila is another premium tequila brand that offers a range of exciting and exceptional varieties. From the crisp and clean flavour of their Blanco to the rich and complex taste of their Añejo 1942, Don Julio has something for everyone. This tequila is perfect for connoisseurs who appreciate the finer things in life, as well as partygoers who want to add some excitement to their drinks.
KAH Tequila
KAH Tequila is a unique and eye-catching tequila that comes in a skull-shaped bottle. But it’s not just about the packaging; this tequila is also bold and flavourful. KAH Tequila offers a range of varieties, including Blanco, Reposado, and Añejo, each with its own distinct flavour profile. This tequila is perfect for those who want to make a statement and stand out from the crowd.
Casamigos Tequila
Casamigos Tequila is a premium tequila brand founded by George Clooney and Rande Gerber. Their tequila is made from 100% Blue Weber agave and comes in Blanco, Reposado, and Añejo varieties. Each one has a smooth and sophisticated taste with notes of vanilla, caramel, and oak. Casamigos Tequila is perfect for those who appreciate a refined and luxurious drinking experience.
Herradura Tequila
Herradura Tequila is a brand with a rich history and a commitment to quality. Their tequila is made with 100% Blue Weber agave and comes in several varieties, including Blanco, Reposado, and Añejo. Each one has a unique flavour profile, but all are perfect for celebrating life’s moments, big or small. From the smooth and balanced taste of the Blanco to the rich and complex flavour of the Añejo, Herradura Tequila is a great way to toast to life’s adventures.
Codigo 1530
Codigo 1530 is a unique tequila brand deeply rooted in Mexican tradition and heritage. Originating from a family-owned distillery in Amatitan, the brand offers a range of five tequilas, each crafted with meticulous attention to detail.
Unlike many commercial brands, Codigo 1530 uses 100% Weber Blue Agave, fully matured for optimal sugar content. The production process is equally rigorous, involving stainless steel ovens for cooking the agave, organic yeast for fermentation, and double distillation in artisanal stills.
What sets the brand apart is its use of French White Oak barrels from Napa Valley for aging, rather than the more commonly used whiskey barrels. This results in a unique and delicately finished product. The brand even has a Rosa Blanco variant that is aged in Cabernet barrels, offering a balanced spirit with floral and berry notes.
Bonus: Leonista Mezcal
Leonista Mezcal is a unique spirit made from 100% agave and smoked over wood fires. It comes in two varieties: Blanco and Reposado. The Blanco has a smoky and earthy taste with a hint of sweetness, while the Reposado is aged for six months in oak barrels, resulting in a more complex flavour with notes of vanilla and caramel. Leonista Mezcal is a great option for adventurous drinkers who are looking for something different from traditional tequila.
