The Best Top Shelf Tequilas [Expert Selections]

Written by Taster's Club Internal Team | Published September 2025

1. Volans Tequila 7 Year Extra Añejo Limited Release

This remarkable extra añejo represents a masterpiece of patience and precision from the highlands of Jalisco. Volans follows time-honored production techniques and is crafted using traditional tahona stone crushing methods. The seven-year aging process takes place in carefully selected American oak barrels that allow the spirit to develop incredible complexity. Which is what sets it apart from younger expressions.

Tasting Notes: The nose opens with deep aromas of dark chocolate, vanilla bean, and dried figs with hints of leather. On the palette you’ll experience rich flavors of caramelized agave and toasted almonds. The finish is long and diverse.

Region: Jalisco / Highlands | ABV: 42.3% | 750ml

2. Alma del Jaguar Tequila Nocturna High Proof Blanco

Alma del Jaguar Tequila Nocturna is a high-proof Blanco to deliver a more intense and authentic expression. This tequila is a tribute to the jaguar, with a portion of proceeds supporting conservation efforts in Mexico. It’s uniquely made from agave that’s harvested at night. Some say it helps enhance its aromatic profile.

Tasting Notes: The nose is strong with aromas of fresh citrus and a distinct minerality. On the palate, you'll discover bold notes of cooked agave, mint, and a touch of spice. The finish is clean and crisp.

Region: Jalisco / Los Altos Southern | ABV: 50.50% | 750ml

3. ArteNOM Seleccion 1146 Añejo

ArteNOM Selección 1146 Añejo 750ML is Taster's Club's best tequila pick for 2025 (and was also the top pick for 2024). This tequila embodies excellence with its superb taste, quality, and consistent satisfaction as gifts for tequila enthusiasts. Crafted by Enrique Fonseca, also known as “El Arquitecto”, this añejo is aged initially in Cabernet Franc wine barrels from France and then in American white oak from Canadian or Tennessee whiskey.

Tasting Notes: It opens with warm and inviting aromas of caramel, vanilla, and dried fruit. On the palate you’ll experience sweet butterscotch, zesty citrus, and creamy toffee blend with earthy agave and dark chocolate. Its long finish lingers with oak, sweet spice, and a touch of smoke.

Region: Jalisco / Los Valles | ABV: 40.0% | 750ml

4. Wild Common Añejo Tequila

Wild Common Añejo emerges from a philosophy of minimal intervention and the utmost respect for the agave’s character. This artisanal spirit is crafted using traditional methods including tahona crushing and wild fermentation which allows the native yeasts to contribute unique flavors that reflect the terroir of the highlands. The aging process in carefully selected oak barrels enhances rather than masks the agave's inherent complexity for the true connoisseur.

Tasting Notes: The nose presents notes of caramel, vanilla, and subtle fruit hints. Rich agave flavors dominate the palate along with honey, light oak, and warming spices. The finish is smooth and balanced.

Region: Jalisco / Los Valles | ABV: 47.0% | 750ml

5. Volcan de mi Tierra X.A. Reposado

Volcan de mi Tierra X.A. is a luxurious and unique blend that combines Reposado, Añejo, and Extra Añejo tequilas. This excellent top shelf selection is crafted to create a complex yet smooth tequila. It’s sought after for its balance between the freshness of younger tequilas and the depth of older ones. Finally, presented in a stunning and handcrafted bottle, it’s a true blend of Mexican craftsmanship.

Tasting Notes: It opens on the nose with warm and inviting aromas of caramel, vanilla, and dried fruit. On the palate, you’ll experience sweet butterscotch, zesty citrus, and creamy toffee. Its long finish lingers with a touch of smoke.

Region: Jalisco / Los Valles | ABV: 40.0% | 750ml

6. Código 1530 Tequila Añejo George Strait "Cowboys and Dreamers" Special Edition

This special edition Añejo from Código 1530 is a collaboration with country music legend George Strait. The "Cowboys and Dreamers" edition is beautifully aged for 18 months in the finest French white oak Napa Valley Cabernet barrels. It’s a beautifully crafted spirit that is perfect for that special someone who loves tequila and country music.

Tasting Notes: On the nose, you’ll immediately experience a rich blend of vanilla and caramel. The palate is velvety with flavors of fruit, oak, and dark chocolate. The finish is long and satisfying.

Region: Jalisco / Los Valles | ABV: 40.0% | 750ml

7. G4 Tequila Reposado de Madera Dia de Muertos Limited Edition

This amazing top shelf tequila is produced by the legendary Felipe Camarena and is known for its strong agave-forward character. This "de Madera" (of wood) in the same is developed from its American oak barrels aging process. The bottle itself is a work of art and beautifully designed to honor the traditions of Dia de Muertos.

Tasting Notes: The nose is fresh and inviting with notes of citrus and a hint of vanilla. On the palate, it’s lively with flavors of pepper, herbs, and a gentle oak influence. The finish is clean with a lingering warmth.

Region: Jalisco / Los Altos | ABV: 42.0% | 750ml

8. Tequila Ocho Single Estate La Ladera Extra Añejo

Tequila Ocho is renowned for its focus on "terroir," producing tequilas from single estates. More specifically, the La Ladera Extra Añejo is an exceptional example of this philosophy. This bottle is made from agave grown on a steep hillside ("ladera"), then aged for three years in used American oak barrels. For connoisseurs, it offers a tasting experience that is both complex and satisfying.

Tasting Notes: The nose presents an elegant combination of floral notes, dried fruit, and a hint of butterscotch. The palate then opens with flavors of vanilla and a touch of cinnamon. The finish is long and sophisticated.

Region: Jalisco / Los Altos Southern | ABV: 40.0% | 750ml

9. Corazón Tequila Expresiones "Weller C.Y.P.B." Reposado

This unique Reposado is part of Corazón Tequila's Expresiones series. It’s known for its unique features from an aging process in barrels from some of the most famous Buffalo Trace whiskeys. The interaction between the premium tequila and these special barrels creates a spirit that is both perfect for whiskey and tequila lovers.

Tasting Notes: On the nose, you’ll experience a delightful mix of caramel, vanilla, and toasted oak. The palate then presents a beautiful balance of agave and honey. The finish is warm with a lingering sweetness.

Region: Jalisco / Highlands | ABV: 40.0% | 750ml

10. Grand Mayan Tequila Ultra Aged Limited Edition

Grand Mayan Ultra Aged is a luxurious tequila that any connoisseur needs on their shelf. It’s aged for over five years which makes it one of the oldest tequilas you can buy. This extended aging process in both American and French oak barrels results in an incredibly rich and complex spirit. Finally, it’s presented in a beautiful and hand-painted ceramic decanter created by Mexican artists.

Tasting Notes: On the nose, this bottle presents sweet vanilla and tropical hints. The smooth palate presents light agave, creamy butterscotch, and cinnamon spice. It finishes elegantly and long.

Region: Jalisco / Highlands | ABV: 40.0% | 750ml