Tequila has emerged as one of the most premium spirit experiences in the last decade. Commanding top billing, high-quality tequila now stands shoulder to shoulder with luxury cognac and scotch bottles that are pursued with excitement by connoisseurs and enthusiasts alike. But this indigenous Mexican drink was always on our radar, especially as a fixture at parties and the club scene. So how has tequila’s image undergone such a spectacular transformation? Why has premium tequila suddenly smitten the world and what makes it so expensive?
To answer that, we need to look at what makes tequila unique: its origin, production process, ageing potential, and global demand. Much like fine wine or single malt whisky, tequila, especially ultra-premium expressions, requires time, labour, and attention to detail that goes far beyond mass-market spirits.
Let’s break down the true cost of tequila, and explore three award-winning bottles from the Ultimate Drinking Guide 2024 that are worth every rupee.
Why Is Tequila So Expensive?
- Agave Takes Years to Grow
Tequila is made from 100 percent blue weber agave, a plant that takes six to ten years to mature. Farmers wait patiently for the agave to reach peak ripeness before harvesting, which limits supply. Once harvested, the agave is roasted, crushed, fermented, and distilled, a process that’s both time-consuming and resource-intensive. - Handcrafted and Traditional Methods
About 98% of tequila is made in the state of Jalisco. Premium tequilas are often made using traditional processes like hand-harvesting of piñas and crushing them using a stone tahona. These methods preserve delicate flavour but require precision, correct equipment, and time, which increases the cost of production. Add to that copper pot stills and small batch production, and the cost rises further. - Barrel Ageing and Storage Costs
Many top-tier reposados, añejos and extra añejos are aged in oak barrels for anywhere from a few months to over three years. During this time, the spirit slowly evolves, taking on rich, nuanced flavours. But ageing also means storage costs, evaporation loss (“angel’s share”), and tied-up inventory: factors that all increase price. - Packaging and Prestige
Luxury tequilas often come in artisanal bottles, handcrafted by local artisans or designed with crystal, gold, or ceramic embellishments. The branding, storytelling, and exclusivity contribute to the final price tag. In some cases, you’re not just buying a drink, you’re buying a collectable. - Global Demand and Limited Production
With tequila’s popularity exploding worldwide, supply can’t always keep up. This is especially true for single estate or craft brands that operate on a small scale. Increased demand from markets like the US, Europe, and now India has pushed prices even higher for premium bottles.
Also Read: Spirits With A Delicious Kick Of Spice
Here are three premium tequilas that command a high price, but offer an exquisite drinking experience that will change the way you experience this beverage:
Jose Cuervo Reserva De La Familia Platino
Part of the iconic Reserva de la Familia collection, the Platino expression showcases unaged tequila in its purest, most refined form. Unlike typical blancos, this one is crafted using the brand’s proprietary “Esencia de Agave” process, which preserves the full flavour and aroma of the cooked agave.
What makes it stand out is its silky mouthfeel, clean finish, and an almost creamy texture. You’ll taste floral notes, citrus zest, hints of black pepper, and an underlying sweetness that lingers. It’s a blanco with depth, making it perfect for sipping neat or in elevated tequila cocktails like a platinum Paloma or Tequila Martini.
If you want to experience the essence of tequila without the influence of oak, this bottle is a must.
Importer: Monika Alcobev
Price: ₹11,250
El Cristiano 1761 CLASE EXTRA REPOSADO EL CRISTIANO XR
For those who love the taste of mature agave with a luxurious edge, El Cristiano XR delivers an unmatched experience. This Extra Reposado is aged longer than standard reposados, giving it the richness of an añejo with the freshness of a joven tequila.
On the nose, it offers deep notes of cooked agave, vanilla, almond, and baking spice, while the palate reveals a layered texture with hints of cocoa, leather, and honeyed oak. It’s ultra-smooth and incredibly expressive, crafted for discerning drinkers who appreciate subtlety and depth.
El Cristiano XR is a connoisseur’s tequila, modern, elegant, and designed for those who seek distinction in every pour.
Importer: Mehra Wines
Price: ₹21,000
Also Read: Easy Sake Cocktails To Elevate Your Bartending Game
1800 Milenio Extra-Aged Tequila
Crafted by one of Mexico’s most respected tequila houses, 1800 Milenio is a tequila that embodies perfection. This Extra-Añejo is aged for five years in French oak barrels and then finished in Cognac casks, a technique borrowed from fine whisky and brandy-making.
The result is a spirit that’s incredibly smooth, complex, and luxurious. Expect aromas of caramel, vanilla, dried fruit, and toasted oak, followed by a velvety mouthfeel and a lingering finish that’s rich without being overpowering. It’s a sipping tequila meant to be savoured slowly, preferably in a wide-mouthed glass that lets the bouquet shine.
1800 Milenio isn’t just about age; it’s about craftsmanship and finesse, earning it a spot on any collector’s shelf.
Importer: Monika Alcobev
Price: ₹35,000
If you are looking for more such spirits recommendations, click here to check out the winners in the spirits category at the India Wines And Spirits Award 2024.
