(1) Sauza Cucumber Chili Tequila.....
Sauza’s Signature Blue Silver Tequila is one of our favorite bottom shelf bargains. Despite its $19 price tag, the tequila is not a mixto tequila and is made from 100 percent agave. It is also excellent in a Margarita. Now Sauza has outdone itself with this flavored tequila. The tequila is infused with natural cucumber and chili pepper flavoring and bottled at 70 proof (which is lower than the brand’s standard tequila). On the palate, it is cooling, with flavors of honeydew melon, cucumber, limestone and garden fresh herbs. On the finish the chili heat reveals itself, leaving a vegetal, barbequed bell pepper flavor on your palate. This tequila is incredibly versatile behind the bar and can be used in anything from a Tequila Martini to a Highball to a Frozen Margarita.
(2) Playa Real Pineapple Infused Tequila.....
This Austin, Texas, based tequila company is the passion project of Matt Davis—better known as the hubby of high end jewelry designer Kendra Scott. Inspired by Davis’ surfing trips in Mexico, his tequila company’s portfolio includes this bottling, a mandarin orange flavored blanco tequila, and an unflavored silver tequila. Out of everything, this bottling was the standout. With bursts of pineapple acidity, a light florality and big juicy tropical fruit flavors, this was one of the most unique flavored tequilas that we tried. What is most interesting about Playa Real’s pineapple is that the vegetal and peppery characteristics from the agave were not overshadowed by the fruit. They play in harmony with the pineapple rather than hiding behind it. This summer, Playa Real Pineapple will become our go-to rum substitute for a Daiquiri.
(3) YaVe Coconut Blanco Tequila ......
If you’re not a fan of a mango’s funky tropical flavor, you should try YaVe’s Coconut tequila. Made with the company’s blanco tequila at the base, the spirit is punctuated with all-natural coconut flavoring (like their mango tequila the spirit doesn’t use any artificial sugars or artificial additives). The meaty, coconut flavoring—which reminded us of Almond Joys but less sweet—permeates the tequila. The coconut’s more floral notes pair perfectly with the herbaceousness of the blanco tequila, creating a flavored tequila that is vibrant and layered rather than one note. Extremely versatile behind the bar, this tequila can be paired with straight seltzer for an ultra-hydrating Tequila Soda, with Coco Rico soda for a coconut heavy libation, or in a Piña Colada instead of rum.