Tequila has become one of the most-wanted spirits globally, with 24% of consumers interested in the Mexican beverage. This trend underscores the necessity for bartenders to understand and stock premium Tequilas to meet customer preferences and drive sales. By becoming knowledgeable about new award-winning Tequilas, bartenders can augment sales and profits.

Staying updated on award-winning Tequila brands allows bartenders to innovate and refresh their cocktail menus, maintaining consumer interest and leveraging the appeal of premium products. This not only justifies higher price points but also enhances profit margins without deterring customers. Moreover, being knowledgeable about new Tequilas can help bartenders negotiate better deals with suppliers. Discovering high-quality, cost-effective alternatives can significantly impact pricing strategies and overall bar profitability.

Tequila Economics

In fact, given the current economic and market landscape, it is crucial for bartenders in both the US and UK to stay informed about new award-winning Tequila brands. This knowledge is essential for several reasons that encompass consumer preferences, strategic importance, market adaptation, and practical implementation. The recent London Spirits Competition makes that easy: with numerous Tequilas scoring above 85 points up to 93 points, for a Double Gold Award. 

Bartender knowledge of new brands is important because consumer interest in Tequila is rising, particularly in the US, where demand for quality, additive-free Tequilas has surged, reflected in a 25% price increase for these products. Tequila has become one of the most-wanted spirits, with 24% of consumers expressing interest. This trend underscores the necessity for bartenders to understand and stock premium Tequilas to meet customer preferences and drive sales. 

A recent CGA report found that “neighborhood bars (31%) and sports bars (31%) are popular destinations, while increased traffic can also be expected in venues with outdoor areas, like rooftop bars and street festival vendors.” CGA’s On Premise Impact Report documented the occasions and drink choices that dominate daytime summer visits to bars. “Nearly half of the consumers plan catch-ups with friends, while vacations (41%), celebrations (35%), and treats (29%) are all common reasons for trips. Meanwhile, beer (41%), soft drinks (32%) and cocktails (31%) are the three most common drinks choices, while vodka (25%) and tequila (24%) are the two most-wanted spirits.”

Knowledge of award-winning Tequila brands allows bartenders to adapt their offerings to local economic conditions, balancing quality and affordability. Featuring award-winning brands can enhance a bar’s reputation for quality and expertise, attracting a discerning clientele eager to try premium products, and thereby differentiating the venue from competitors.

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Product Swaps and Menu Revamps

In addition, understanding the characteristics and benefits of new Tequila brands aids in seamless product swaps and menu revamps, which are essential for maintaining consistent pricing without compromising on quality. This is particularly important given the volatile nature of supply costs and legislative changes impacting labor costs. 

In the UK, introducing award-winning Tequila brands can invigorate the spirits category because spirits have seen a decline compared to wine and beer. Offering customers new and exciting options can increase their overall spending and satisfaction.

In sum, for bartenders in both the US and the UK, knowledge of new award-winning Tequila brands is not just beneficial but essential. It supports economic resilience, enhances customer satisfaction, and strengthens competitive positioning, making it a vital aspect of contemporary bar management and operations.

Top 10 Tequila Brands 2024

Based on the 2024 London Spirits Competition point results, the judge’s tasting notes, and the diversity of Tequila styles, here is the top 10 Tequila list for 2024.

1. Reserve Collection Añejo from Cierto Tequila, 93 points: An añejo tequila with medium intensity, offering a balanced profile of caramel and oak on the nose, complemented by light vanilla notes on the palate, leading to a short and light finish.

Image: Reserve Collection Añejo

2. Don Fulano 20th Anniversary from Tequila Don Fulano, 91 points: Medium intensity with herbaceous notes, this añejo tequila offers great balance and flavour.

Image: Don Fulano 20th Anniversary

3. Private Collection Añejo from Cierto Tequila, 91 points: An añejo tequila offering overall balance, smoothness, and silkiness, presenting oak and herbaceous notes on the nose, a sharp palate, and a long finish, all with light intensity.

Image: Private Collection Añejo

4. JAJA Tequila Añejo from JAJA Tequila, 89 points: This añejo tequila presents a nose with wood and slight sweetness, transitioning to a palate featuring citrus and herbaceous notes.

Image: JAJA Tequila Añejo

5. Estevanico Tequila from Trayol Ventures LLC, 88 points: An añejo tequila with a rich caramel nose, smooth palate, and burst of vanilla, lingering finish.

Image: Estevanico Tequila

6. Don Valente Tahona from Marco Antonio Jauregui Huerta, 88 points: A sliver tequila with prominent flavours and aromas of agave, also showcases a light amount of smoke and hints of stone fruits. It has a smooth texture and can be an ideal choice for cocktails.

Image: Don Valente Tahona

7. Casa Maestri Tequila Añejo 100% Agave from Destiladora del Valle de Tequila S.A. de C.V, 88 points: An añejo tequila with prominent flavours of vanilla and oak on the nose and palate followed by hints of sweetness and a smooth texture towards the end.

Image: Casa Maestri Tequila Añejo

8. Private Collection Blanco from Cierto Tequila, 87 points: A sipping tequila with a smoky, round, and elegant nose, leading to a palate that is round and complex, with hints of hay and wood, culminating in a smooth and long finish.

Image: Private Collection Blanco

9. Siempre Tequila Plata from Siempre Spirits Limited, 86 points: A silver blanco tequila with vanilla and herbal notes, rich agave flavour, and a round, elegant balance. Offers vanilla on the nose and palate, with a citrusy medium finish.

Image: Siempre Tequila Plata

10. Tequila Añejo 100% Agave NueveB from VAWE Spirits GmbH, 86 points: Añejo tequila, where the persistent fig notes gracefully intertwine with a powerful vanilla taste, offering a truly satisfying experience.

Image: Tequila Añejo 100% Agave NueveB