The Best Tequila for Shots: Our Top Picks

The Best Tequila for Shots: Our Top Picks

Tequila is the life of the party—made from the agave plant, this clear spirit brings a fruity, sweet, and earthy vibe to your glass. But the best part? The flavor changes depending on where it’s made, which agave it’s from, and how long it’s aged. 

Whether you’re craving tasting citrus, honey, caramel, or a little peppery spice, tequila can give you what you’re looking for. Plus, it’s got that unforgettable smell and a reputation for making every shot a good time. From Mexico to all over the world, tequila is a global legend.

Ready to find the best tequila for shots? In this article, we’ll spill the tea on the top options, from price to picking the perfect bottle for your next party!

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Our Top 6 Tequilas for Shots Our Top Picks


1.

512 Tequila Blanco

512 Tequila

· 750ml · 40% ABV

About 512 Tequila Blanco

When you're on the hunt for the best tequila for shots, you want something smooth and affordable, and that’s where 512 Tequila Blanco shines. This Blanco brings just the right amount of agave flavor without overwhelming your taste buds. 

Founded in 2012 by Scott Willis, the brand got its start with Tito’s vodka inspiration, but once Scott linked up with Master Distiller Luis Trejo, they made the switch to tequila, and boom—512 Tequila Blanco was born as one of the top choices for shots!

View more about 512 Tequila Blanco >>
$36.99
512 Tequila Blanco Tasting Notes

Appearance / Color

Clear appearance.

Nose / Aroma

The aroma is potent with a combination of white pepper, agave, and other floral notes.

Flavor / Taste / Palate

You'll be welcomed by a taste of field greens, freshly cut grass, and an earthy loom that's followed by a white pepper spice.

Finish

A long finish for a clear tequila but a welcome one thanks to its blooming warmth.


2.

Casa Noble Crystal Tequila

Casa Noble Tequila

· 750ml · 40% ABV

About Casa Noble Crystal Tequila

Looking for a smooth tequila for shots? Casa Noble Crystal Tequila might cost a little more, but it's worth it if you're skipping the salt and lime. This tequila goes down easy, thanks to its triple-distilled process, which dates back to the 1700s. 

The Blue Weber agave gets a solid seven years to grow, bringing out some serious flavor. It’s a smooth experience that makes you want to sip it, but it'll still rock your shot glass!

View more about Casa Noble Crystal Tequila >>
$43.99

3.

Hornitos Añejo Tequila

Hornitos Tequila

· 750ml · 40% ABV

About Hornitos Añejo Tequila

Hornitos Añejo Tequila is a total gem for shots, especially if you’re into dark tequila but don't want to spend a fortune. It brings all the rich, bold flavors you’d expect from an aged tequila but at a price that won’t break the bank. 

Distilled in Sauza, Mexico, you know it’s the real deal. If dark tequila is your vibe, Hornitos Añejo is definitely one of the best shots to grab!

View more about Hornitos Añejo Tequila >>
$28.99

4.

G4 Tequila Reposado

G4 Tequila

· 750ml · 40% ABV

About G4 Tequila Reposado

G4 Tequila Reposado is a bit on the pricier side, but it earns that spot for a reason. If dark tequila flavors are the vibe, this one hits all the marks. It's a super versatile drink that works great for shots, sipping, or mixing into cocktails.

This smooth tequila comes from El Pandillo Distillery in Mexico, run by Felipe Caraena, a 4th-generation agave farmer. When it comes to crafting delicious tequila, they have the skills to back it up, making it another contender for the best tequila for shots.

View more about G4 Tequila Reposado >>
$61.99
G4 Tequila Reposado Tasting Notes

Appearance / Color

Not as clear as Blanco tequila but not as dark as an Añejo; it looks almost pale white.

Nose / Aroma

Warm agave aroma with hints of cilantro that draws you in for more with toasted oak and pepper.

Flavor / Taste / Palate

The flavors follow up the aroma with hints of vanilla, light herbaceous notes, and roasted succulents.

Finish

Light and fresh finish with lingering spices.



· 750ml · 40% ABV

About Rooster Rojo Smoked Pineapple Tequila Añejo

If you're craving something a bit outside the norm, Rooster Rojo Smoked Pineapple Tequila Añejo might just be your new go-to. With smooth pineapple and a touch of smokiness, it’s sweeter and easier to drink than your average tequila, making it one of the best for shots. 

But it’s not just for sipping straight–it also brings something unique to any cocktail. It’s clear that Master Distiller Arturo Fuentes Cortes outdid himself with this one.

View more about Rooster Rojo Smoked Pineapple Tequila Añejo >>
Regular
$48.99
Flaviar black
$36.75 (−25%)
Rooster Rojo Smoked Pineapple Tequila Añejo Tasting Notes

Appearance / Color

A light amber or orange/brown color.

Nose / Aroma

Has a tobacco, oak, and chocolate aroma.

Flavor / Taste / Palate

Thanks to the pineapple infusion, you'll notice hints of pineapple, banana, caramel, and vanilla.

Finish

Long and spicy finish that draws you in for more.


6.

Cabo Wabo Tequila Reposado

Cabo Wabo Tequila

· 750ml · 40% ABV

About Cabo Wabo Tequila Reposado

Cabo Wabo Tequila Reposado is a solid choice if you're looking for a smooth, flavorful tequila with a rock 'n' roll twist! Aged for four to six months in American oak barrels, it’s got a beautiful light golden color and a mix of earthy, herbal flavors. 

Crafted from 100% Blue Weber agave in the highlands of Jalisco, this tequila has a rich depth thanks to the volcanic soil and high-altitude growing conditions. It’s not just a tequila; it’s a piece of rock history created by Sammy Hagar, the legendary Van Halen frontman himself.

View more about Cabo Wabo Tequila Reposado >>
Regular
$38.99
Flaviar black
$35.10 (−10%)
Cabo Wabo Tequila Reposado Tasting Notes

Appearance / Color

A light golden color with a smooth, rich tone.

Nose / Aroma

Rich, warm aroma with hints of caramel, vanilla, and a touch of oak, balanced with herbal and earthy notes.

Flavor / Taste / Palate

Smooth and well-balanced, with flavors of toasted oak, honey, and light spice, along with a subtle agave sweetness.

Finish

A smooth, long finish with a touch of warmth, leaving behind lingering notes of oak and vanilla.

How to Choose the Best Tequila for Shots?

When picking the best tequila for shots, start by figuring out what kind of flavor vibe you're after. If you're into a cleaner taste with less flavor punch, go for a Blanco tequila. 

If you're looking for bold, rich flavor, an Añejo is your go-to with its longer aging process. For the perfect balance, Reposado delivers the best of both worlds–smooth with a bit of flavor kick.

Best Tequila for Shots You Can Also Use for Cocktails

Looking for the perfect tequila for both shots and cocktails? A Blanco tequila is your best bet! Its smooth, neutral flavor makes it great for shots and versatile enough to mix with just about anything. 

Whether it's lime, ginger beer, fruit juices, or triple sec, Blanco tequila is the base you need to create killer cocktails. Plus, it’s an easy choice when you’re craving something light and crisp!

Best Tequila for Shots You Can Also Drink Straight

If you're after a tequila that’s perfect for shots but also smooth enough to sip straight, go for a high-quality bottle like G4 Reposado. It has a rich, darker flavor that makes it ideal for sipping, much like a fine bourbon, and you can even add a lime to bring out the sweetness.

That said, some Blanco tequilas are smooth enough to enjoy straight, too, so it really comes down to what kind of flavor vibe you're in the mood for.

How Much Does a Tequila for Shots Cost?

Looking to grab a tequila for shots without burning a hole in your wallet? No problem! You can score a solid bottle for around $20 to $30 and still enjoy great flavor. 

But if you're craving something with a bit more complexity, you can always treat yourself to a bottle in the $40 to $70 range for those extra flavors that really hit the spot, much like a well-aged Scotch.