9 Best Tequilas Under 100 Dollars
The History of Tequila and Its Popularity in Margaritas
Tequila, the iconic Mexican alcoholic drink, has a rich and fascinating history that dates back over 400 years. It all began in the town of Tequila, located in the state of Jalisco, Mexico.
According to legend, it was discovered by the Aztecs who were looking for a way to ferment the sap of the agave plant. The Spanish then arrived in Mexico and introduced distillation to produce stronger alcoholic beverages from fermented agave.
Thus, tequila as we know it today was born. Fast forward to modern times, and tequila has become a hugely popular spirit all over the world.
One of its most famous uses is in margaritas – a refreshing cocktail that is enjoyed by millions every day. This classic cocktail combines tequila with lime juice and triple sec to create a delicious drink that is perfect for hot summer days or any time you want to unwind. Let’s take a look at the 9 Best Tequilas Under 100 Dollars.
The Importance of Finding Quality Tequila on a Budget
When it comes to making margaritas at home, one thing is essential – finding quality tequila that won’t break the bank. While there are many excellent tequilas out there with sky-high price tags, you don’t need to spend hundreds of dollars on a bottle just to make a great-tasting margarita. The key is finding high-quality tequilas that are affordable and won’t compromise on taste or quality.
There are plenty of options available at various price points if you know what to look for. A good rule of thumb is to stick with 100% agave tequilas as they tend to be smoother and more flavorful than those made with lower quality ingredients.
While many people may think that finding an excellent tasting tequila for margaritas requires spending lots of money; this isn’t always true! With a little research and knowledge, anyone can find quality tequila on a budget that will make delicious margaritas and impress your guests.
Blanco Tequilas
The Purest Form of Tequila
Blanco tequila, also known as silver or white tequila, is the purest form of tequila. It is clear in color and has not been aged, unlike reposado and añejo tequilas. Blanco tequilas are made from 100% agave and are distilled immediately after being fermented, resulting in a crisp and clean taste.
The characteristics of a good blanco tequila include a sweet aroma with hints of citrus and herbs, a smooth taste with a slight burn, and a clean finish. The best blanco tequilas for margaritas are those that enhance the flavor of the other ingredients without overpowering them.
Blanco Tequilas- Best Tequila under 100
1. Casamigos Blanco
This award-winning blanco tequila created by George Clooney has become increasingly popular due to its smooth finish and hints of vanilla and caramel. It is great for margaritas because it enhances the flavor without overpowering it.
2. Espolón Blanco
This has notes of citrus and pepper with a slightly sweet taste that makes it perfect for margaritas.
3. Cazadores Blanco
This has notes of agave, pepper, and citrus which give it a unique flavor profile perfect for margaritas. Overall, these three blanco tequilas are excellent choices under $100 for margarita lovers who want to enjoy the purest form of this iconic Mexican spirit while still staying within their budget.
Reposado Tequilas
“Reposado” means “rested” in Spanish, and refers to tequila that has been aged for a minimum of two months and up to one year in oak barrels. This aging process adds complexity and depth of flavor, making it a popular choice for sipping or mixing in margaritas.
The Characteristics of Reposado Tequilas
Reposado tequila is known for its golden color, which is derived from the oak barrel aging process. The aging also imparts flavors such as vanilla, caramel, and buttery notes to the tequila.
The wood also gives it a slightly smoky taste. Reposados are typically smoother than Blanco tequilas due to the aging process.
When choosing a reposado tequila for your margarita, look for one that is balanced with subtle hints of agave and wood. The best reposados will have a smooth finish with flavors that linger on your tongue.
Reposado Tequilas- Best Tequila under 100
4. Casamigos Reposado
At around $50 per bottle, this reposado is made from 100% blue agave and aged seven months in American white oak barrels. It has hints of vanilla and caramel with a smooth finish.
5. Cazadores Reposado
Aged between six and eight months in American oak barrels, this reposado has subtle spice notes with a hint of sweetness from the agave. At around $30 per bottle, it’s an affordable choice without sacrificing quality.
6. Espolòn Reposado
This award-winning reposado is aged six months in American oak barrels giving it rich butterscotch flavors with hints of cinnamon and white pepper. Priced at around $25 per bottle, it’s an excellent value for its taste and quality.
Reposado tequilas are a great choice for margarita lovers who want to add complexity and depth of flavor to their cocktails. These top-rated reposados under $100 provide excellent value without sacrificing quality or taste.
Añejo Tequilas
Explanation of Añejo Tequilas and their Characteristics
Añejo tequila is aged for at least one year in oak barrels. This aging process gives añejo tequila a darker color and more complex flavor than its younger counterparts.
During the aging process, the tequila absorbs flavors from the wood of the barrel, which results in a smoother, more mellow taste. The longer a tequila is aged, the more expensive it becomes.
Añejo tequilas are generally pricier than blanco and reposado tequilas because of their lengthy aging process. However, they are still considered relatively affordable when compared to other high-end spirits like whiskey or cognac.
Añejo tequilas are great for sipping straight or as a premium ingredient in cocktails like margaritas. Their rich flavor profile adds depth to any mixed drink and provides a smooth finish that pairs well with other ingredients.
Añejo Tequilas- Best Tequila under 100
7. Don Julio 70 Añejo Claro
Don Julio 70 is aged for eighteen months in American white oak barrels and then filtered to remove any color imparted by the wood. The result is añejo claro or “clear añejo.” This unique process gives this añejo an extra layer of complexity usually reserved for much pricier bottles.
8. Espolón Añejo
Espolón’s añejo is aged for at least one year in American oak barrels before being bottled. The final product has hints of vanilla, caramel, and dried fruits with a slightly spicy finish that makes it perfect for margaritas.
9. Cazadores Añejo
Cazadores’ añejos are crafted with 100% Blue Weber Agave and aged for over a year in small, American oak barrels. The resulting añejo has a smooth finish with notes of toasted oak, vanilla, and caramel that make it ideal for sipping or mixing into margaritas.
Añejo tequilas can add depth and complexity to margaritas without breaking the bank. With so many affordable options available, there’s no reason not to elevate your next margarita with some high-quality añejo tequila.
Conclusion
Recap of the Top 9 Best Tequilas Under $100 for Margarita Lovers
After researching and tasting numerous tequilas, we have compiled a list of the top nine best tequilas under 100 for margarita lovers. In the blanco category, El Jimador, Milagro Silver, and Cazadores Blanco all showcase their unique flavors and smoothness.
In the reposado category, Espolòn Reposado, Hornitos Black Barrel, and Olmeca Altos Reposado stand out with their complex tastes and aromas. In the añejo category, Herradura Añejo, Don Julio Añejo, and Fortaleza Añejo offer a rich depth of flavor that pairs perfectly with margaritas.
Encouragement to Try New Brands and Experiment with Different Types of Tequila in Margaritas
While this list highlights some fantastic options for affordable yet high-quality tequilas for margaritas, we encourage you to try new brands and experiment with different types of tequila. There are countless brands out there with unique flavor profiles that may surprise you!
Consider trying a mezcal instead of tequila or adding some fresh herbs or fruit to your margarita for an extra burst of flavor. The beauty of cocktails is their versatility – everyone can customize them according to their own preferences.
Don’t be afraid to experiment and create your own signature margarita recipe using any one of these top nine best tequilas under $100 as your base spirit! Finding quality tequila doesn’t always have to come at a steep price.
With so many great options under $100 available on the market today, there’s no excuse not to explore new flavors and experiment with different types in your margaritas. Here’s to discovering your new favorite tequila and creating the perfect margarita every time!