Is TEQUILA the next BOURBON?

[@susanwojcickisnicetwin]

I hope it is, then people will quit buying so much bourbon and the prices might drop.

[@slbdrinks]

There you go!

[@CJNAPOLEON77]

Hahaha this was great

[@MikeGolfsOregon]

I've been telling my bourbon buddies it is for the last two years. The good news is that most people are scared of tequila because they've had bad experiences with poor quality tequila. It's my favorite spirit and I evangelize to all my friends and family, educating them on additive-free tequilas. Love seeing them taste and watching their eyes open to what true, natural tequila flavor is. Great video!

[@johnconnell9836]

Mike, you should try Calirosa añejo. It's aged in California red wine barrels. It's amazing!

[@stephenshort9109]

@@johnconnell9836 Pass on celebrity tequila. The contract distillery NOM1459 produces over 60 brands of tequila.

[@johnconnell9836]

@@stephenshort9109 that's what I thought before trying it.

[@odie1287]

Calories doesn't have the best reviews..... But I do see many bourbon people coming to tequila.... Still finding the stuff I want but soon the best stuff will become harder to find

[@MikeGolfsOregon]

@@odie1287 This is indeed the problem; scarcity. Bourbon has its impending barrel shortage, tequila has its agave crisis. How real or how manufactured those issues are is beyond me, but I know I won't soon be able to walk into my local and pick up 3 variations of Siete Leguas, or El Tesoro, or Pasote with ease. BOOOOOO!!!!

[@schedvi]

“Excellent Sipping Tequila” guy here, just now branching into bourbon. I love all the comments from the bourbon drinkers! I really enjoy this channel in guiding me on my (new) bourbon journey. For you bourbon guys I have three words: Tears of Llorna.

[@FantasySoldier]

LMAO that face when you were revealing the price on the Gran Patron! Also, now I have to go "liquor store hopping" to get tequilas for a tasting. Thank you for everything you do!

[@slbdrinks]

Lol brutal! Thank you!

[@tacticalmacabee18]

I've been drinking primarily whiskey for years and the past few months have ventured into high quality tequila and gin. Makes you appreciate the bourbon too when you come back. Happy to see your video!

[@Materman76]

Yes it is. Tequila, Mezcals, Sotols, etcs. If your only experience with Tequila is Cuervo, Milagro, Hornitos, Casamigos, etc, you're missing out on a whole new world of spirits. Hold onto that Pasote bottle as they've moved on to the wine label bottles. I loved the old Aztec warrior bottles.

[@slbdrinks]

Agree 100%! Love that Pasote bottle! Wasn’t aware they changed the label.

[@Ethernet480]

Variety is the spice of life. Glad to see a new spin on the content!

[@slbdrinks]

Agreed!

[@mackmarcom6915]

Man, I got, "OMG I can't believe you paid that much" when I spent $170 on a bottle of Don Julio 1942. I can't imagine the reaction to spending $450 on a bottle. Great Channel! I've added quite a few bottles to my collection based off your videos.

[@slbdrinks]

Glad you are enjoying the channel!

[@ositofreitas]

DJ1942 is horrible and loaded with additives

[@wadejensik651]

Great show interesting picks look forward to more tequila shows. Really enjoy a good Margarita cant wait for your mixer segment. Thanks again!

[@slbdrinks]

Glad you liked it!

[@vincentr.6109]

I admire the amount of work that goes into making tequila. Personally, I like Reposado Tequilas. The problem or issue with Tequila it takes a long time to actually grown the plant to produce the spirit if sales continue to increase, there will be shortages.

[@slbdrinks]

Agreed. To my understanding with Covid and more people staying home there is already some tequila shortages due to drinking at home.

[@stephenshort9109]

One of the main problems right now is shortages of ripe agave. Modern production methods get more sugar out of the agave than traditional steam cooking. That sounds good but because of that they are using younger and younger agave before they reach full ripeness. I've heard of some using 3 and 4 year old plants.(full ripeness comes at 7+ years) While that helps with volume it hurts the natural flavors that ripe agave brings to the tequila. That's why additives are being added, to mimic the natural flavors, but of course it doesn't really taste the same. Additives can also add coloring originally used to equalize the coloring between batches. Now I would be surprised if some use it to make blanco look aged. It's against the law to do that but is it really enforced? Is that anejo really aged 3 years or have additives been added to mimic color, sweetness and oak? The saying is bourbon/whiskey is aged in the barrel while tequila is aged in the ground.

[@slbdrinks]

Great info thank you!

[@kristianvelazquez9025]

Coming from a town in Mexico were blue agave is grown Stephen Short ⬆️ comment is spot on on his take of agave ..it's being harvested too young because of demand..I would say mezcal is a good spirit with many different nuances since it's not limited to one type of agave like tequila...it's a more of a endless rabbit hole spirit like bourbon.

[@markmaioli4]

Tequila already IS the next whiskey! I've been investigating tequila for a couple of years now and really like the pure agave blancos/silvers, etc. I have bourbon for all those warm traditional whiskey notes and tequila with the lighter agave, citrus, vegetal flavors. Depends on my mood and the weather!

[@slbdrinks]

Great options! I am just at the start of truly discovering great tequila! Love it so far!

[@barkman1739]

I believe the pronunciation is ahn-YAY-ho. Thanks for the video! Also, did I miss the wife’s tasting notes? 🤣🤣🤣

[@Eskimohow]

I have the Widow Jane Reposado Tequila Ocho and it’s phenomenal!! It’s so good that I have a backup. It’s 91 proof because that’s what widow Jane comes in at.

[@hollyjhj3732]

This show is right up my alley. I am a big fan of GOOD tequilas, and I think they are only now beginning to get the appreciation they deserve. So many people have the wrong impression of tequilas, usually due to some poor, college-day choices involving vast quantities of cheap shots. But a good 100% agave añejo is so eye-opening. Such a delightful experience. And, Kurt, I have also been eyeballing that Gran Patron. I'm sure it's AMAZING! Fantastic show!

[@slbdrinks]

Thank you Holly! Hopefully one day we can share a pour!

[@user-th9vq1mi9s]

Good video I learn something every time I watch how to enjoy good beverages

[@slbdrinks]

Thank you!

[@tomgensel4134]

Love'm both. 👍 Also have a thing for Rum🥃. I like the 4 picks and have had Pasote, Site Leguas 7, and the G4. I can't pull the trigger on the Banger. I will look for Tequila Ocho. Thanks 👍

[@slbdrinks]

The banger is a one and done for me but it will be enjoyed on occasion!

[@uduran9907]

Pasote and G4 from El Pandillo! Absolutely the best!

[@slbdrinks]

So good!

[@RuckusOutfitters]

love the video. I recently went on a Tequila quest to buy a good bottle for a client of mine. Watched some youtube videos on it, learned a ton! Settled on the Tequila Ocho. The thing that bugged me about tequila shopping was every bottle was only 80 proof? What’s up with that?

[@ernestpeacock1943]

I've always been a tequila drinker at heart, but have been exploring more whiskey over the past year. I love your channel and appreciate that your tastes go beyond just bourbon and American whiskey. Keep up the good work!

[@veladpm]

You should try Teramana Tequila finished in bourbon barrels. Amazing! If you haven’t already.

[@slbdrinks]

Thank you!

[@josephpowell7998]

Very glad you did a segment on Tequila. I've been a Tequila enthusiast for years and enjoy high quality (additive free) tequilas. Clase Azul has a lot of additives and not a good quality Tequila. G4 is great, Rey Sol Extra Anejo, Cazcanes Repo, Anejo or Extra Anejo are fabulous, Carrera Blanco is amazing, 123 Diablito, Tears of Llorona (aged in three different barrels -- oak that has previously held scotch, sherry, and brandy) and several other. Give one of those a try and you will absolutely not be disappointed!

[@slbdrinks]

Appreciate your knowledge! Others told me the same about the Azul. I wouldn’t have known.

[@debbybrady1246]

WOW, good info. Next time I sell a painting I'm gonna buy Grand Patron.

[@qthemusicdj]

Really enjoyed Pasote. Clean. Not too earthy. Mellow bite. Never tried bitters in my blancos

[@jamesnorwood4084]

Extravagance used to be gauged in dollars per shot; this taquilla is by dollars per swig.

[@robertmyers5763]

I have or have had all but the Gran Patron because I can't spend that much on a bottle of anything. I applaud your selections of well-made, additive-free tequilas.

[@slbdrinks]

Thank you! An education in a spectacular spirit!

[@bryonfaber4392]

Fortaleza Blanco I think you would enjoy I think it's fantastic, just picked up a Don julio 70 looking forward to opening will definitely look for your recommendations

[@slbdrinks]

I tried to find a Fortaleza but absolutely could not! I was bummed and wanted it in the show.

[@iess2006]

Btw, thanks for the Pasote idea...imma try that one. Suggestion box: Casa Dragones, Fortaleza, Cascades on the high end and Pueblo Viejo for great value for the price.

[@slbdrinks]

Appreciate your recommendations!

[@BretSimmons]

Oh your wife is funny! Mine tells me all the time "slow down, please" I don't own a single tequila so this was very helpful. My "next bourbon" is high proof rum from Jamaica or Barbados e.g. Foursquare products. Sip it neat.

[@slbdrinks]

I just bought my first Foursquare and it’s divine!

[@BretSimmons]

@@slbdrinks It really is. If you see one, grab a Hampden rum from Jamaica. Funky!

[@jshicke]

An excellent show. " A extremely relaxing journey into an agave experience ... ", a great way to describe learning about these sipping Tequilas. Until my daughter visited Mexico on a cruise, I only new Tequila as something to drink on Cinco de Mayo or in a Margareta. She brought back some Reposado, Anejo, and Creme de Tequila. It all broadened my knowledge, and appreciation. for these drinks. Still not a big fan of the Blanco, but can appreciate some of the aged varieties. If you need to hide any more Tequillas so that you do not get busted, I can hold them for you. Come by anytime for a sip.

[@slbdrinks]

Hey now that’s an idea! Lol

[@jackmanders7077]

I feel like it is with a lot of the younger generations , especially around big cities

[@seamansj]

I started out drinking Pina Coladas about 5 yrs ago and a margarita every now and then but about 7 months ago started drinking whiskeys. Bourbons, scotch, Irish, even got a cognac. Then bought some rums for sipping. Went to Cancun about 3 weeks ago and got into sipping tequilas and really enjoy them now. So I don’t hardly have any mixed drinks any more. I enjoy sipping and just enjoying the new experience of drinking. Enjoyed this video as I do all the others. Would like to see more tequila videos. Thanks again 👍👍

[@slbdrinks]

Wow your experience is extremely close to mine! I started out with frozen margaritas and moved on from there. Enjoy the journey!

[@TheSpiritoftheCocktail]

AWESOME!!!! I need to find that Grand Patron!! Your description of is was great!!!! CHEERS!!!!

[@slbdrinks]

Thank you!

[@annquach6613]

Los Angeles may not have all the store pick bourbons, but we have the tequilas

[@slbdrinks]

I bet you do! Good ones are hard to find in my area unfortunately 🫤

[@timmolina9569]

My go to Tequila is Corralejo Añejo. The Blanco and the Reposado are more for mixing but the Añejo is what my palet calls for. I pick up a bottle in Juarez Mexico for about 25 to 30 bucks. In the states it can run up to 60.

[@badgerjeff6081]

I was just looking at tequilas teh other day and had no idea what to get. Great timing. Thanks!

[@slbdrinks]

Glad you enjoyed it! Learned a lot while prepping for this show!

[@adamcervino5312]

The first 4 are all very nice bottles. Reposado and anejo tequila is what helped me establish taste notes which later helped me in my bourbon journey. Out of them all, G4 is the best product, however those old Pasote bottles and G4 come from same place NOM 1579 El Pandillo. The best!

[@haydenpeairs4635]

Very difficult to enjoy a hearty, rich bourbon once the temps start hitting 90° daily here. Tequila has become a warm weather go-to because of its slightly lighter presence while maintaining a complex and refreshing flavor profile.

[@GenX4ever]

Agreed. Time for cold beer season. It'd be nice if he did a beer selection. Cheers

[@slbdrinks]

Well said!

[@alandiaz1041]

Tequila is a polarizing sprit. People tend to love it or hate it with very little middle ground. I don’t hate tequila but I certainly don’t drink it with any regularity. Give me scotch, bourbon, or rye anytime. The only other spirit that I enjoy is rum. My favorite is Bumbu which tastes just wonderful and is only $32 here in Florida. Great video all the same as you did a great job describing various offerings for people of all budget levels.

[@slbdrinks]

I understand with any spirit that some won’t be for everyone. As far as Bumbu rum, banana bomb! Very good

[@geecee1990]

My new neighbor is in the liquor business. He works for a distributor here in Nashville. He just got to take a business trip to Tequila Mexico for a line of tequila his company is about to start carrying. he brought me a bottle home. I am a strict bourbon guy, but this stuff blew me away. It really drinks like a bourbon Beautiful taste. It is called Partida Tequila Reserva. Will probably sell for between $50-$60 a bottle. I'd love to see what other bourbon guys think of it if anyone ever tries it. It's definitely a sipper, not a mixer.

[@slbdrinks]

Tequila, good tequila, is def worth a look! Thank you for your recommendation!

[@swopeti]

One of the better sipping tequila brands i found has been fortaleza tequila. They have an annual winter release if you can find them very very good

[@stephenshort9109]

Fortaleza is fantastic. One of the best!

[@slbdrinks]

I absolutely could not find a bottle for this video. I tried, was so bummed! It is excellent!

[@GabrielSavala-pd7qx]

My family is from los altos jalisco and all I gotta say is THANK YOU . 🍻

[@rubenrocha4835]

You started this tequila show with The Big Guns!!! Great video.

[@odie1287]

There's a couple other bottles I would put in that line up but overall good choices

[@slbdrinks]

Thank you!

[@brmicmatthews8398]

Haha tried keeping the price under wraps but you got busted. That G4 sounds good as well. Great recommendations/video.

[@slbdrinks]

Busted for sure! Thank you!

[@graveshotx]

I just bought Number Juan Extra Anejo ($120!) because of being a fan of Ron White. I usually never like Tequila, but that one drinks like a good whiskey. Makes me open to trying out what you're suggesting. Makes me wonder what other liquors I'm overlooking.

[@MrRaptorman1975]

Some what correct. Blanco can be aged up to 2 months. Ocho is highland tequila. So it's grown in the mountains with a clean clay soil. Ocho agave is brick oven cooked and mill pressed. So is the Pasote. If you like the earthy tones try a lowland tequila like Fortaleza. G4 is also a highland tequila. One of my favorites. So clean and tasty. The Gran Patron is delicious.

[@slbdrinks]

Admittedly I am new to discovering quality tequilas so my info I found on the net was incorrect concerning aging. Thanks so much for setting that straight! Appreciate your recommendations!

[@MrRaptorman1975]

@@slbdrinks you were close. Most blancos are not aged, but they can be.

[@MrRaptorman1975]

@@slbdrinks If you have a PO Box or I can send you some Fortaleza to try. I know you don't want to give out your home address.

[@cbus3353]

One Tequila, Two Tequila, Three Tequila, Floor!

[@slbdrinks]

😂

[@stockicide]

Nice to see the variety of your collection! Bourbon is great, but there so many other liquor categories that are delicious as well.

[@slbdrinks]

No doubt about that! I try to include other spirits from time to time because of you are exactly right!

[@cdmak1]

I have never had it, but a few people have told me, if I EVER see a Gran Patron Piedra, buy it. No matter what it costs

[@slbdrinks]

Wow! Sounds delicious!

[@stevenmathews1654]

I have the Gran Patron myself. We opened it up on NYE. By far the best tequila I’ve ever tasted.

[@slbdrinks]

That awesome! Thanks for the confirmation!

[@mywhiskeyden-davidelliott]

My wife... when you revealed the "banger" price said "Hear her? It's not just me"... lol! I will have to try some of these. Great video and I hope tequila is the next big thing, then I can find bourbon more easily

[@slbdrinks]

Great point! Hope that works as well lol!

[@adriancano3991]

Had Mezcal Tequila and oh my goodness. It’s hard to explain it’s like BBQ or Smokey Tequila it’s freaking amazing

[@slbdrinks]

Yes! Very nice to explore the agave spirit!

[@G_P_G]

oh no, I'm already really into Bourbon and Gin I don't think I can keep expanding haha. I will say I have always had tequila in cocktails and like it that way but was never a big fan of sipping it. As someone who drinks Bourbon neat but gin on the rocks I was wondering if drinking it on the rocks might be a good gateway to sipping tequila? Or does water dilute the flavors too much when sipping tequila? Last, if the bottle says 100% agave does that automatically mean it has no additives, or not necessarily?

[@slbdrinks]

Drinking any spirit over the rocks I think is fine if that’s your preferred way. 100% agave does not mean it’s additive free unfortunately but I do think it’s an important detail when mixing a good cocktail.

[@wind-inmy-face7949]

Great video, I’m just entering into the Tequila world myself. Question though, why did you not show taking the actual sip?

[@slbdrinks]

Good question, not sure why Trent cut that out. Would have to think to save some time on the video but would have to ask.

[@wind-inmy-face7949]

@@slbdrinks Thank you! Keep up the great work! Would love to see more Tequila videos!

[@oldmantwofour5561]

Well, sir, I'm glad you ask me this question. No...no it isn't.

[@slbdrinks]

Lol! I respect your opinion!

[@d-averion5011]

Great show, thank you! That's a beautiful bottle. Cheers

[@slbdrinks]

Thank you!

[@Materman76]

G4 and Pasote are both produced by Felipe Camarena, the Tequila maestro.

[@stephenshort9109]

along with Terralta (my favorite Felipe) ArteNOM1579 and Volans. All are very good. I also like his brother, Carlos Camarena who produses Ocho, Tapatio and El Tesoro. Between the two of them I could be happy only drinking their stuff, but luckily there are plenty of other great master distillers.

[@slbdrinks]

Need to get more educated with details like this! Thank you for sharing!

[@lawrencespies8674]

Great selections. No Fortaleza?(NOM 1493) That is a MUST TRY!! Also Suerte Tequila(NOM 1530) is delicious and inexpensive.

[@slbdrinks]

Truthfully, I looked everywhere for Fortaleza and came up empty handed. So bummed.

[@lawrencespies8674]

@@slbdrinks yeah.hard to find.

[@stevemann3226]

While I agree with Mike below, being the "next thing" is a double edged knife - shortages and higher prices. You test some very good bottles and I see a bottle of Mezcal on the shelf, so I hope you do an episode on that sometime as well. Also would recommend Cazadores Reposado as a good, $30 entry point.

[@slbdrinks]

Appreciate your recommendation! I absolutely would love to do a Mezcal show at some point.

[@tomahearn1676]

Be SURE to try the corazon tequilas aged in Buffalos Trace barrels….. even William larue weller! AMAZING!!!!

[@slbdrinks]

This is true! I have had a pour of the William Larue !

[@terrytio8982]

Nice reviews...have tried everything but the Gran Patron XA....way too many great less expensive to justify shelling out $450 imo. I'm sure you've tried them, but among my favorites are Rey Sol, Tapatio Excelencia, G4 XA, Diablito, just to name a few. Great stuff though, keep up the good work!

[@slbdrinks]

Haven’t tried any of those so appreciate the recommendations! Been looking for a couple of them but not found yet!

[@iess2006]

Jose Cuervo (don't laugh) Reserva de Familia at $140 would probably give Patron $500 packaging/marketing a run for its money. Fun fact, Siete Leguas was the original "Patron" that people fell in love with as that company is basically a hype marketing company that OEMs tequila...their quality has also gone down over the years as they have changed OEM sources. The Patron u highlighted here was designed for bottle service at night clubs to help guys impress girls. Patron was recently sold to Bacardi for $5B and quality is expected to go down yet again in order to afford lots of advertising and fancy boxes. Feeling my love for Patron yet?

[@slbdrinks]

Believe it or not I am actually a Patron hater. My opinion mirrors yours on their base level products. The bottle highlighted on the show however is additive free and truthfully spectacular.

[@iess2006]

@@slbdrinks Too bad I'm not ur neighbor so I could try it lol. Meanwhile how about a follow up blind tasting of the top 5 Anejos u can gather together? I would also put Don Julio 1942 near the tippy top as well for example. Fun!

[@andrewmainprice2179]

You must try mezcal especially the small village Chichicapa which is like Islay whisky.

[@slbdrinks]

Love Mezcal! I have a small handful of really nice bottles!

[@papajames4785]

OOOh!!! That Gran Patron looks so inviting!!! Every man's hobby or whatever sparks his interest is never cheap and we always explore and desire the best in quality!!! Best in quality usually comes with a hefty price tag!!! I had a little bout with medium priced Scotches and Canadian Whiskey but I was slightly disappointed and regretted buying it!!! Now that Gran Patron is something I would not seek out because of the hefty price but it sure would not hurt to take a sip! Great video!!! Aloha!!!

[@rockybalboa5896]

Just research for the channel!! I appreciate your sacrifice for your Subs. :)

[@slbdrinks]

Love this community!

[@nickp5511]

Didn’t realize until now you reviewed tequila! Great show! I really enjoy tequila too! My favorite so far is my Siete Leguas Anejo😃

[@slbdrinks]

Am only at the beginning stages of learning about good quality tequila!

[@Cfinnan]

your only allowed to pick 1 bottle of Whisky for each of the 4 seasons threw out the year ( spring,autumn etc ) what bottles are you picking for each season and why ?

[@slbdrinks]

Wow! Now that’s a great question! Not easy to answer either.

[@ibdam1]

I’ve tried the G4. It’s pretty good. I’m currently sipping on Don Julio Ultimate Reserva. The Reserva is AMAZING, I like it a little more than the Patron Burdeos. I’m liking the change of pace with the Tequila. 👍🏾👍🏾

[@slbdrinks]

Tequila has some amazing options that’s for sure! I will have to try some reserva!

[@simonwhitehouse4950]

Give Fortaleza Blanca a try, lovely drop 🌵

[@maff2984]

from what I understand Fortaleza is the family that originally owned Patron and once they sold Patron they made Forteleza just for the family originally. it has become so popular and with the issues with agave in Mexico can be hard to find at times. My mistake it is sieta legumes that made patron

[@stephenshort9109]

I am not sure if Patron is in their history or not but probably. The whole Tequila (the town) and distilleries have a mixed heritage of families. I know Sauza is in the mix but a lot of the big names in early tequila seem to have a mixed family tree. The original name for Fortaleza is Los Abuelos (grandfathers in spanish). It's sold as Los Abuelos in Mexico but the name Fortaleza came after a trademark dispute in the US.

[@slbdrinks]

You have no idea how hard I tried to find Fortaleza for this video! One of my store owners said they just were not able to get it lately. Bummed.

[@simonwhitehouse4950]

@@slbdrinks it really is great, I get mine online in the UK. Loved the show, great work 👍

[@maff2984]

@@slbdrinks I was able to get it at Wegmans of all places. They had the whole line

[@bbpete8349]

Last week I bought a tequila after strictly bourbon buys for years. So I was glad to see this but no way will I pay $450 for any bottle. I will just take your word how good it is, Kurt, because I'm sure it is. I stuck with a $60 Patron and it's good. A Gran Patron will have to wait. I'm glad you did this! Thanks!

[@slbdrinks]

The Gran Patron is a one time buy for sure but it is delicious!

[@DJSwizz15]

Try Cava Antigua Añejo

[@anthonyspadavecchio2036]

Great show thank you Kurt

[@davehalaby8377]

My two favorite liquors bourbon and tequila! Old fashioned wood fired (traditional made) tequila is the best!

[@richardadams6151]

You may want to try Adictivo Tequila Anejo. It has a bourbon sweetness. I know you can find it in Chicago land. I have to order it online here in Minnesota.

[@stephenshort9109]

Another additive bomb if that matters to you.

[@slbdrinks]

Thank you so much for the recommendation!

[@RABSTRAINS]

OH BOY! Your wife is going to blow a gasket! I am not a fan of Tequila due to experiences long ago. Used to like It shaken over ice then strained into a glass with a lime. Just can’t go down that rabbit-hole, because becoming more focused on scotch single malts. This was very informative and thanks as always for your videos. I enjoy the heck out of them Kurt. Peace My Friend. Hey, if you guys end up picking a single barrel from New Riff, I would love to stop in and meet you, maybe have some lunch. Let me know, I live 20 miles north of the distillery.

[@slbdrinks]

I get it! Past experiences are critical especially when it comes to spirits! Appreciate your involvement in the channel!

[@stephenshort9109]

Nice video. You had me until you mentioned loving Clase Azul. All of the featured tequilas are very good, traditionally made, additive free tequilas, but Clase Azul is an additive bomb, more reminiscent of a liqueur than a liquor. If that's your thing then fine, but don't bring it up with any of ones on this video. I can't believe you mentioned Tears of Llorona and Clase Azul in the same breath. Ouch! I've had all of these tequilas except that Patron (so pricey). I would rank the first four in the order you presented them in( maybe swapping the Pasote and Siete Leguas). Ocho being my favorite of this group and in my top 5 overall. Most Patrons are really just very basic and bland tequilas. The Roca Patron and Gran Patron are the exceptions but still on the lower end of the better tequilas. My current top five brands are Fuenteseca, Wild Common, Ocho, Fortaleza and Terralta, but there are so many others it's really hard to pick only five. Top ten would be just as hard. There are just so many great tequilas out there. Anyone new to tequila should check out the tequilamatchmaker.com website and app for a ton of tequila knowledge and ratings of any and all tequila.

[@michaeljohnson6201]

What would you recommend to a newbie as far as a sipper? $40-50 price range

[@stephenshort9109]

@@michaeljohnson6201 For that price range it would have to be a blanco. Tequila Ocho, Fortaleza, Terralta, El Tequileno Platino, and Lalo are some of my favorites in that range. All used to be right at $40 but have gone up so are approaching $50 now.

[@michaeljohnson6201]

@@stephenshort9109 thank you very much. I downloaded the app. Hoping that will help also

[@slbdrinks]

Tequilamatchmaker was a fabulous tool in preparing for this video! Certainly appreciate your undoubted tequila knowledge in your comment! The only CA I have is the reposado. Absolutely no idea it is full of additives! Will not be buying anymore! Thanks so much for your recommendations as well!

[@johngeorge5624]

A suggestion if you haven't tried it yet. EL TESORO anejo. My favorite of them all. Great sipping tequila, great quality for the price. Enjoy!

[@slbdrinks]

Love El Tesoro!

[@TheReal_DeanD]

I have some bottles of Mezcal Joven that I enjoy on occasion. Also Kurt's face at 8:46 when he is explaining to the Missus that he got a deal on it is nearly close to the face I make with my missus when she starts the inquisition. At least that bottle of Gran Patron is beautiful. Certain tequilas are like the Bourbon craze but ime only if they are those tequila's that used Buffalo Trace barrels.

[@slbdrinks]

Ya that didn’t go over to well 😂

[@seamansj]

I saw a video on one that was in Buffalo Trace barrels and it was called Corazon Reposado Buffalo Trace

[@rockonblackops777]

Have to tried Fortaleza? I believe you will like it

[@slbdrinks]

I have in the past and it’s fantastic! Haven’t seen it in my area for months.

[@clingman71]

I’m thinking rum is the next whiskey, tequila might be the next rum.

[@slbdrinks]

Lol hey I love a good sipping rum as well!

[@geraldmolnar2991]

Is the Gran Patron Burdeos really additive free... I've had a sample and it was delish but also heavy in caramel/vanilla/sweet. I'm no expert but TMM does NOT have this as additive free. I could be wrong...

[@StacheXXL]

Kurt. I also love a good tequila, I have started adding some bottles to my bourbon cabinet, really have not seen a need (yet) to get a bigger cabinet. Really enjoyed this episode!

[@slbdrinks]

I had a lot of fun putting it together as well!

[@sdflyer1672]

A higher end tequila that I enjoy immensely is Fortaleza Blanco, around $50.00. Definitely a must try. Great video!!

[@stephenshort9109]

I wish that was considered high end these days but yes it is fantastic. Most of the best blancos are in the $40-70 range with a few right at the $100 mark. Of course the longer the aging the higher the price. Blanco (0-30days), Reposada (31days to 12 months), Anejo (1-3 years), Extra Anejo ( over 3.years).

[@sdflyer1672]

@@stephenshort9109 Thanks, Stephen. I should have included that it's an incredible value. Sort of like Glenmorangie 10 year old scotch.

[@slbdrinks]

I tried to Find Fortaleza for this video but came up empty. It is beautiful!

[@sdflyer1672]

@@slbdrinks So glad you've had it, Kurt!!!!!

[@jP-nw7nm]

WOW WOW WOW how did I miss this real tequila!?!? Respect!

[@slbdrinks]

Thank you!

[@brentworls8509]

I've tried a number of tequilas over the years, but I tend to stick to the bottles about 40-60 bucks. My favorite in that range in the Avion brand. I prefer Reposado or Anejo. MMMMM

[@slbdrinks]

Very good!

[@tombryan1]

I have to admit i just have about 8 to 9 years experience and have only had maybe 60 to 70 different brands, unlike whisky

[@RodneyHenderson357]

I can't believe it after bad experience in college, been drinking tequila especially repos, anejos and extra anejos. After explaining my experience to a tequila they told me I wasn't drinking tequila or an quality one. A quality extra anejo neat is my jammm.

[@pitts1653]

Haha. That’s exactly what my wife is saying. I’m loving it though!!

[@slbdrinks]

😂

[@vincentsimon4037]

Answer? No!!!! Bourbon rules!!

[@slbdrinks]

Lol! Can’t argue that brother!

[@mikeg4960]

Just started getting into tequila but would keep a bottle of DJ 1942 on my shelf. Repos and Anejos when I’d experiment becuz of the barrel notes I’d get in whiskey. Recently learned about the additive free stuff and tried picked up a Tequila Ocho Plata. Never ever thought I’d enjoy a silver/blanco tequila neat. But that Ocho Plata with a full body cigar 🤌🏾 is one of the best pairings I’ve had

[@matthoernemann4140]

Now I need to up my tequila game.

[@slbdrinks]

You got this!

[@JadisMercado]

America's first barrel aged spirit, Apple Brandy is the next whiskey...🍏🍎🥃

[@slbdrinks]

Your killing me… I love apple brandy lol! Trent’s gonna hate me lol

[@JadisMercado]

@@slbdrinks I do blind whisk(e)y tastings for friends and colleagues, I usually like to put a “wild card” in there to mix it up and see if anyone points it out. A lot of people couldn’t tell the difference between the apple brandy and the whisk(e)y blindly. I actually got the idea from an article in Whisky Advocate magazine from a few years ago entitled “The Whisky Lover’s Guide to Apple Brandy”that you can find online. (I put a link to it in my original reply but I guess the almighty algorithms didn’t like that.😒)

[@cletusjones9411]

Please God…no! I can’t afford another alcohol “collection.”

[@slbdrinks]

Ahhhhhhhh, lol. Sorry my friend!

[@princehakeem9103]

Tapatio Excelencia Extra Anejo not cheap but the best Tequila I’ve had.

[@slbdrinks]

Thank you for your recommendation!

[@safromnc8616]

I know little of tequila but I do have a couple of 'good' bottles. Tequila and rum are both more Summertime drinks for me, particularly tequila. I got into rum a bit when I started traveling to the Caribbean some 25 years ago. So I keep some of that in stock as well, although we do have a few good rum producers here in the Charlotte/western NC area. Great episode, I had only heard of the Patron & Pesote, I'll have to look for some of the others you have...

[@gregmartin1757]

Yes and no tequila is growing rapidly in popularity and will almost definitely be the next big thing in spirits. As more people are becoming away of how good really well made quality tequila is it will continue to become more prevalent as the of choice for more people who appreciate fine spirits. Let's face it many people still think tequila is just something you knock back with lime and salt or make margaritas with and don't buy or have never had good tequila. Whiskey will always have it's place because there's millions of loyal whiskey lovers myself included and all the tequila in the world no matter how great will never replace it. Do enjoy really good tequila on occasion though .

[@slbdrinks]

Exactly! I am just at the beginning stages of recognizing a good tequila but really enjoying it!

[@StillLivinginthewoods]

Not for me it isn't. If I am going to drink anything other than whiskey it would probably be barrel aged rum.

[@stephenshort9109]

Have you tried a good quality tequila? Any type of tequila from Ocho, Fortaleza or Pasote (just to name a few)will be very good. If your only exposure to tequila was Jose Cuervo, Sauza, Hornitos or any other lowest of the low end "shots" tequila then I perfectly understand your comment, but if you haven't tried one of the above mentioned tequilas you may want to give them a try. Good tequila usually starts around $40 but some can be had below. Good cheap tequilas are Olmeca Altos and Cimarron. Also note that a high cost tequila does not guarantee quality. I am sure you have seen Casa Dragones. It's made the exact same way (diffuser, acid-thermal hydrolysis) as the low end Jose Cuervo at 10 times the price. And it's crap too.

[@StillLivinginthewoods]

@@stephenshort9109 Thanks, to be fair it has been a long long time since I had any tequila. I think Patron and Centenario were considered the big premium tequilas at the time (late 90s/early2000s), and I wasn't really impressed. A lot can change in 20 years, including my taste buds, so I may look for your suggestions next time I go the liquor store and give them a shot.

[@slbdrinks]

I respect that for sure. I also like some rums so can’t argue that!

[@SharonBatey-q4x]

What about Tierra-Noble is it good for sipping 🥃 tell tell

[@schuylersilverstein1935]

Never heard someone pronounce clase azul like that lol good lineup of tequilas. Very different from bourbon. I prefer tequila during the day and bourbon at night.

[@slbdrinks]

Now that’s a great concept! I like it!

[@robertstrickland2121]

I’ve always had a taste for mezcal

[@slbdrinks]

An excellent agave spirit!

[@robertstrickland2121]

@@slbdrinks mezcal-a-Rita is my favorite cocktail. The smoky flavor really shines through

[@marshall5021]

I love tequila in some mixers but never thought it to be a sipper. I've only spent 110 on a bourbon (I understand not too expensive) but my girl wanted to stomp my teeth in 🤣🤣😅😅 I love the different styles or topics brought here. Also I bought Old Elk wheated and omg it's yum :)

[@slbdrinks]

Awesome! Glad you liked it!

[@johnringenberger7338]

Really want to sip the Gran Patron now!