What is Joven Tequila? Differences, How To Drink, Bottles, and More

You’ve just heard or seen the word “Joven” when you’re shopping for tequila, so what does this actually mean? If you’re like most other tequila lovers, you know the classic blanco, reposado, and añejo. But Joven? It's the hidden gem amongst the different types of tequila, and once you understand it, you'll wonder how it went under your radar for so long.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know—what Joven tequila is, how it's made, how it differs from other tequila types, and which bottles are worth buying. By the end, you'll have all the knowledge to enjoy Joven tequila with confidence.

What is Joven Tequila?

The word Joven is technically the Spanish word for "young," which is where it’s also classified amongst other types. However, Joven tequila is very complex and is much more nuanced than a blanco.

At the core, Joven tequila is a blend of unaged blanco tequila and at least one aged type, which usually is a reposado or añejo. This blending process gives it a flavor profile that sits between somewhat in the middle between blanco and reposado for something that presents the fresh notes of a blanco but also the depth from the aging reposado.

And while Joven is not a popular category when compared to a blanco or añejo, it’s legally recognized as a fifth category by the Consejo Regulador del Tequila (CRT), the governing body that oversees tequila production.

Brief History

Joven tequila emerged later on the timeline after the birth of tequila. Once the distillers began experimenting with aging, the only major thing left was blending. The distillers who began this process knew that it would help create a softer and more dynamic tequila that you couldn’t reach with a blanco or reposado.

Over the years, Joven has actually become a staple at social gatherings as it’s popular at celebrations, and it quickly earned a reputation for bridging the gap between the boldness of a blanco and the elegance of an añejo.

Creation Process & Region

Like all true tequila, Joven must be produced in designated regions of Mexico. Secondly, the production process starts with Blue Weber agave, the only variety permitted for 100% agave tequila.

From there, the blanco is blended with one or more aged tequilas. The blend's ratio and age of tequila used are entirely up to the producer. Some may use a small percentage of reposado, while others may use deeply aged añejos.

Mezcal is also another famous blending spirit.

Flavor Profile

There’s a reason that Joven tequila is a dedicated category, as it sits in a beautiful flavor sweet spot. From the blanco, you get the classic bright and peppery notes with that sought-after agave taste. From the aged tequila blended in, you get warmth and sweeter flavors like vanilla that come from aging in the casks.

A Joven blended with reposado will taste lighter and fruitier, compared to one blended with añejo, which will be richer and more sophisticated in its depth when you sip.

ABV / Strength

Joven tequila is bottled at the same standard strength as other tequila categories—typically 38% to 40% ABV (76 to 80 proof). Some Joven bottles may go slightly higher, but most sit right in that classic tequila ABV range.

How It's Different From Other Tequila Types

While other tequilas are defined by their aging period, Joven tequila is different because no other type of tequila uses blending techniques across the different types to create the beautiful flavor you’ll experience.

 It's all about the blending process of unaged Blanco and aged tequilas, instead of simply looking at the aging profile. A skilled blender can craft a Joven that hits notes across the entire flavor spectrum. This makes it one of the most creative and exciting expressions in tequila.

How To Experience Amazing Tequila Every Month

At Taster's Club, we make it easy to stock your bar with premium tequila every single month. Check out our Tequila of The Month Club. It’s the ultimate way to explore the world of reposado, blanco, and other amazing tequilas.

Get Topic Picks Month to Month

All expertly curated and delivered straight to your door every month. Take the guesswork out of buying and start tasting the best the world has to offer. We also offer a Tequila Pro Club for those looking for the top-shelf and luxurious finds.

Prepaid Gifting Options

Members can choose from monthly, 3-month, 6-month, or 12-month subscriptions, receiving a premium bottle of tequila each month.

The Best Ways to Enjoy Joven Tequila!

While other tequilas lend well to party shots or an epic night of sipping with company, there are a few specific ways we recommend for enjoying your Joven tequila to the fullest.

Sip it Neat

If you want to truly appreciate the complexities of a Joven, we highly recommend that you try it neat. Pour it into your favorite tulip-shaped tequila glass and sip it slowly. This is the best way to experience its unique character.

Serve it on the Rocks

If you’re looking for a slight variation to sipping neat, serving it with a large ice cube on the rocks is another excellent way to experience a Joven. The ice cube will chill and ever-so-slightly dilute the sip without taking away its character. You’ll still be able to experience the deeper aging from the blended tequilas that make up your Joven choice.

Mix it in Cocktails

Like any aged tequila, Joven is perfect for a cocktail where you’re looking for more depth and an elevated feel. The balanced profile this type presents helps to change things up from the classics.

The Best Joven Bottles for Sipping

The Best Joven Bottles for Cocktails

Lobos 1707 Tequila Joven

This Joven is for the basketball fanatic in your life. Lobos 1707 was co-founded by NBA star LeBron James and Diego Osorio. This particular bottle is made from a blend of carefully selected blanco and reposado tequilas, all crafted at the NOM 1579 distillery in Jalisco. What makes Lobos 1707 Joven perfect for your home cocktails is its bold agave nose that also holds woody notes from the reposado. It won’t disappear with a sweetener and adds a complex flavor to many cocktails.

Tasting Notes: This bottle offers immediate aromas of agave, with hints of balsamic and herbs. On the palate, it’ll go on to present bold raw agave, green pepper, and a light vanilla undertone. It all wraps up very clean with a medium-length finish.

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

Purchase Lobos 1707 Tequila Joven

The Best Budget Joven Bottles

Cocijo Mezcal Joven

Produced in the Oaxacan highlands, Cocijo Mezcal Joven is made using traditional production methods passed down through generations of Zapotec artisans. For the price, this bottle delivers a remarkable level of character that’s a perfect entry bottle for anyone curious about a fun Joven mezcal selection.

Tasting Notes: On the nose, this Joven opens with a unique mix of charred wood, roasted agave, and an earthy character. The palate is filled with approachable smoke, green apple, and pepper. The finish is medium and very clean.

Region: Oaxaca, Mexico | ABV: 40.0% | 750ml

Purchase Cocijo Mezcal Joven

Discover Other Tequila Guides & Top Bottle Selections

• Crafting the Perfect Tequila Cocktails at Home
• The 10 Best Sipping Tequilas [Expert Picks & Guide]
• The 10 Best Cristalino Tequilas [Expert Picks]
• The Best Tequila for Margaritas [Expert Picks By Type]