Mexico's Tequila Boom: How Premium Spirits Are Conquering Global Markets
Mexico’s tequila distilleries are bigger and more complex than ever, with just over 200 active tequila distilleries collectively responsible for several thousand brands on the market worldwide. The top 10 distilleries by brand count alone account for more than 700 active labels, making them the real powerhouses behind the bottles reshaping how the world drinks tequila.
Mexico's tequila industry has experienced unprecedented growth over the past decade. The spirit has evolved from a party shot accompanied by salt and lime to a sophisticated drink sipped and savoured like fine whisky.
According to data from Agave Matchmaker, one of the most comprehensive databases tracking tequila production, there are now thousands of tequila brands tied back to a relatively small number of active distilleries. From Casa Maestri's staggering 228 active brands to smaller boutique operations producing premium expressions, these distilleries are driving a global tequila revolution.
These producers are meeting surging international demand whilst maintaining the heritage and craftsmanship that makes tequila uniquely Mexican.
The international appetite for premium tequila has exploded beyond traditional markets. The United Kingdom has emerged as the second-largest market by volume after the United States.
Whilst the US continues to dominate consumption, European and Asian markets are experiencing remarkable growth. Consumers are discovering the complexity and quality of well-made tequila.
In Southeast Asia particularly, this premiumisation trend has accelerated dramatically over the past nine years. Specialised distributors like East West Asia have been instrumental in introducing discerning Asian consumers to authentic Mexican spirits.
Their recent portfolio additions include brands like Pantalones and Cazcanes. These reflect the growing sophistication of the Asian market, where consumers actively seek out premium tequilas that showcase the spirit's true character.
This shift from mixto tequilas to 100% blue agave expressions represents more than changing taste preferences. It's a fundamental evolution in how tequila is perceived and consumed across global markets.
These distilleries employ master distillers who have perfected their craft over generations. They utilise both traditional methods like tahona wheels and stone ovens alongside modern technology to create consistent, high-quality products.
The regions where these distilleries operate—primarily Jalisco's Los Valles and Los Altos areas—provide ideal growing conditions for blue agave. Distinct terroir characteristics influence the final spirit's flavour profile.
Some distilleries, such as La Cofradia, have effectively acted as tequila incubators, with ultra-premium brands like Clase Azul starting life there before growing into global icons. Even as some bigger brands now face legal scrutiny over the use of additives, traditional producers like La Cofradia continue to champion pure 100% agave tequila made with time-honoured methods.
Others, like Casa Maestri, focus on contract manufacturing for hundreds of brands, demonstrating the diverse business models sustaining Mexico's tequila industry. Understanding which distilleries produce which brands provides valuable insight for consumers, distributors, and industry professionals, helping them navigate the increasingly complex tequila landscape and identify producers whose craftsmanship and scale align with quality standards and market positioning.
Top Ten Tequila Distilleries
The Top 10 Tequila Distilleries Ranked by Brand Production
Based on comprehensive data from Agave Matchmaker's distillery database, the following ranking reveals which Mexican tequila producers manufacture the highest number of brands. This metric provides valuable insight into each distillery's production capacity, contract manufacturing capabilities, and overall influence within the industry.
The distilleries featured in this top 10 list span across Jalisco's renowned tequila-producing regions. From Los Valles in the lowlands to Los Altos in the highlands, each location imparts distinct characteristics to their spirits through unique terroir and production methods.
These industry leaders range from massive contract manufacturers producing hundreds of brands for global clients to family-owned operations crafting prestigious ultra-premium expressions. Some focus exclusively on their own portfolio whilst others specialise in white-label production for international spirits companies.
Understanding which distillery produces your favourite tequila brand offers transparency about production methods, quality standards, and the master distillers behind the bottle. The NOM number displayed on each tequila label identifies its certified distillery of origin, connecting consumers directly to these producers shaping the global agave spirits landscape.
#1 Destiladora del Valle de Tequila (Casa Maestri) – NOM 1438
228 Active Brands | Jalisco (Los Valles) | Ranked #117
Casa Maestri stands as Mexico's undisputed largest tequila producer by brand count, manufacturing an astonishing 228 active brands from their facility in Tequila, Jalisco. This contract manufacturing powerhouse operates in the Los Valles region, producing tequilas for clients ranging from celebrity-backed brands to major international retailers.
The distillery's production capabilities are remarkably diverse. They utilise both traditional stone/brick ovens and modern autoclaves for cooking agave, whilst extraction is handled through roller mills. Fermentation takes place in both wood tanks (pipones) and stainless steel vessels, with options for 100% agave and mixto production.
Their distillation equipment includes copper pot stills, stainless steel pot stills, and stainless pot stills with copper coils. For ageing, Casa Maestri employs French oak barrels, American white oak barrels, whisky barrels, used barrels, and bourbon barrels, offering clients extensive maturation options.
Notable brands produced here include Cincoro Tequila, El Padrino de Mi Tierra, Hussong's, and the flagship Casa Maestri line, all of which have attracted substantial rating activity on enthusiast platforms. The distillery is open to private label contracts but does not currently offer tours to the public.
With water sourced from distilled, deep well, and natural spring sources, Casa Maestri demonstrates the scale and sophistication required to simultaneously produce hundreds of distinct tequila brands whilst maintaining quality standards across their portfolio.
| Casa Maestri – 228 Active Brands | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 Caminos | 21Seeds | 5 Millas | 66 by Norwegian |
| Abre Ojos Tequila | Agavales | Agave Boom | Agave Salvaje |
| Agavemio | Aguamiel | Alida Tequila | Amarnos |
| Amor Y Guerra | Anaya | Anteel | Antonio's |
| Applequila | Asesinato Tequila | Bahnbrëcker | Bambarria |
| Bellagave | Big Boy Tequila | Billfish Tequila | Blowfish Tequila |
| Blu | Buendia | Caballo Azul | Cal & Gary's Curated |
| Calido | Candente | CasAgave | Casa Capistrano Tequila |
| Casa Del Valle | Casa Flamenco | Casa Maestri | Casa Malka |
| Casa de Reyes | Casino Azul | Casoro | CavAgave |
| Cava del Volcan | Celaya Tequila | Centenera 1572 | Chameleon |
| Chaquira, Reserva de El Jaguar | Chardañejo | Chimayo | Cincoro Tequila |
| Coca Pura | Colibri | Contigo Tequila | Delicado |
| Dia De La Sirena Tequila | Dia Santo | Disbelef | Don Chente |
| Don Cosmé | Don Dada | Don Ernesto | Don Gino |
| Don Levi | Don Romeo | Don Timbón | Dos Flamos |
| Dos Serpientes | Doña Celia | E. Cuarenta (E-40) | Ego Tequila |
| El Changuito | El Chubby | El Fumador | El Hijo De Mis Amores |
| El Jefe Tequila | El Jet's Cantina | El Macho | El Padrino de Mi Tierra |
| El Perro Grande Tequila | El Pobre | El Rey y Yo | El Sueño |
| El Tirador | Emyla Tequila | Espiritu De Celia & Miguel | Esplendido Tequila |
| Estevanico (Little Stephen) | Euforia Tequila | Excuse Tequila | Exito |
| Fiesta Loca | Flama De Fuego Fino | Frida Mexican Cuisine | Fuck Yes! Tequila |
| General Diaz | Georgia Azul Tequila | Ghost Tequila | Good Fucking Tequila |
| Gran Latsul | Gran Vida | Grandiosa Azteca | Gravitón Tequila |
| Hacien Tequila | Heroe De Mi Tierra | Hot Torque | Hussong's |
| Hápax | IEIE Premium | IZO Tequila | Identity Tequila |
| Inclusivo | Inevitable | Intenso Amor | Jon Basíl Tequila |
| Jose Coira | Jose Leon Tequila | Joselito | Juntos |
| La Historia de Nosotros | La Langosta Blanca | La Palmosa | La Serpiente Emplumada |
| Lagrimas De Leon | Laneta Tequila | Lolita | Los Amigos |
| Los Azulejos | Los Dias Magicos | Los Hermanos 1978 Tequila | Los Locos |
| Los Sundays | Macizo | Marfanista | María Isabel |
| Mas Y Mas Tequila | Miel Amarga | Misguided Spirits | Montaukila |
| Mozalbete | Mío by Casa Maestri | Naked Diablo | Naughty Paws |
| Necesita | Noel Family Tequila | Nueve 9 | O'RTE |
| Omano Tequila | Orgullo Ajeno Tequila | Osadia | Padrisimo |
| Painted Donkey | Para Ellos | Parranda | Pepe's Cantina |
| Pink Pig | Pink Poison by Müggler | Pistola del Diablo 54 | Poder De La Tierra |
| Poderio | ROW | Rancho Alto | Rancho Caballo |
| Ravella Tequila | Rejoneo | Reserva De Icaza | Reserva de Borregos |
| Ricarda Amor Tequila | Rio Agave Tequila | S.O.S. | SUMMERGODS |
| Sabor | San Martín de Hidalgo | Santa Familia | Santera |
| Satoma | Self Made Dee Brown CEO | Ser Yo | Sergio Revell |
| Señor Paloma | Shadow Tequila | Silvena 1950 | Solisca |
| Southbound | Sparkle Donkey Tequila | Stage Seven | Street Tequila |
| Sunbird | TDLG | TECÁN | TWF - Tequila With Friends |
| Taco Tuesday | Teeq Tequila | Tequila Indianos | Tequila Los Cucos |
| Tequila Maji | Tequila Miagave | Tequila Nueve B | Tequila Serpentes |
| Tequila Tentador | Tequila de Maya | Tesla Tequila | The Besties All-In Tequila |
| The Butterfly Cannon | Tiburon's Fin | Tierra Y Poder | Tierra de Caballos |
| Tiquis Miquis | Tita | Tolteca | Tonino Lamborghini |
| Topanito | Tqilakaze | Travesuras | Tres Gringos |
| Troo | True Tequila | Tu Tequila | Tuyo |
| Una Familia | V Tequila | Veneno | Verde Green |
| Vida de Louie | Vivamor | Vivir Tequila | Vozul |
| Wanna Taste Tequila | Xicano | YaVe Tequila | Zarza Tequila |
#2 Tequila Selecto de Amatitán, S.A. de C.V. – NOM 1459
86 Active Brands | Amatitán, Jalisco (Los Valles) | Ranked #80
Tequila Selecto de Amatitán ranks as Mexico's second-largest tequila producer by brand count, with 86 active brands crafted at its facility in Amatitán, Jalisco. Situated in the Los Valles region, the distillery services a wide spectrum of clients, from celebrity-backed labels to traditional family-owned brands. Its portfolio spans approachable value tequilas through to more premium offerings, making it a key player in contract production. The operation is designed to balance high-volume output with sufficient flexibility to accommodate diverse brand identities.
Production at Tequila Selecto combines traditional practices with modern efficiency. Agave is cooked in both stone/brick ovens and high-pressure autoclaves, allowing producers to tailor flavour development to each brand. Extraction is handled via roller mills, delivering consistent sugar recovery across large volumes. Fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks, with options for 100% agave and mixto formulations depending on the target market.
The distillery operates a versatile array of distillation equipment, including copper pot stills, stainless steel pot stills, column stills, and stainless stills fitted with copper coils. This toolkit enables a wide range of profiles, from lighter column-still spirits suited to cocktails to richer, pot-still led expressions. The technical setup supports simultaneous production for many labels without compromising on consistency. As a result, Tequila Selecto can adapt quickly to new product briefs and limited releases.
Notable brands produced here include Mi Familia Flores, Los Tres Toños, Calirosa, Codigo 1316, and Blue Nectar, several of which have amassed significant attention among tequila enthusiasts. The distillery has also previously handled respected names such as Grand Mayan and AsomBroso, showcasing its experience with premium, high-visibility brands. This mix of long-standing labels and newer collaborations underlines its importance in the modern tequila landscape. Many contract partners rely on Tequila Selecto to maintain consistent quality as their volumes grow internationally.
Ageing programmes at Tequila Selecto draw on French oak, American white oak, whisky barrels, new and used casks, and bourbon barrels to deliver a broad range of styles. Deep well and natural spring water sources are blended to produce a clean, reliable base for both distillation and proofing. The distillery is open to contract manufacturing and also offers tours, giving visitors a first-hand view of large-scale yet quality-focused tequila production. This combination of openness, capacity, and technical breadth makes it a cornerstone of Los Valles contract distilling.
Note: Brands highlighted in red within the table are key or notable labels from this distillery, typically those with higher popularity or stronger rating activity, and are emphasised for quick reference.
| Tequila Selecto de Amatitán – 86 Active Brands | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| 24K Deliciosa Vida | Alto de Amatitán | Amafer Tequila | Amorarte |
| Antillón Reserva | Aroma Azul Tequila | Arriesgado Artesanal | Arte Azul Tequila |
| Astro Tequila | Barril La Cava | Blue Nectar | Bouquet Mexicano |
| Buen Vato | Calirosa | Cama De Piedra | Casa Jalisco |
| Casa Mision | Codigo 1316 | Coracho Tequila | Derechito |
| Diva Del Bravo | Don Adriano 1950 | Don Azul | Don Neron |
| Dos Locos | El Buen Bouquet | El Cachanilla | El Jefe Luis |
| El Señor De Oro | El Tecolote | El Traidor | El Viejo Andres |
| Elevaso | Envuelto | Espiritu De San Miguel De Allende | Gran Tulum |
| Hacienda Imperial | Insolente | JFC | Justina & Leandro |
| La Catrina | La Monta | La Propuesta | Legacia Tequila |
| Leyenda 1975 | Los Tres Toños | Luis Aimar | Majalca |
| Maximo Imperio | Medio Limón | Mi Chante | Mi Familia Flores |
| Mi Sorpresa | Mis Aguacates | Mujer Mestiza | Mundo de Oro Tequila |
| Natly | Nicho Real | Nicho Selecto | Nicho de Oro |
| Nuda Tequila | Nuestro Destino | Oro Selecto | Peñasco |
| Picochulo | Primera Clase | Riqueza Artesanal | Riqueza Azul |
| Riqueza Cultural | Rubí Corazón | Sabor Azteca | Sanctus Aquam |
| Sr Disanty Tequila | Tangaixtle | Tantita Pena | Te Amo Tequila |
| Tequila Dinastia Real | Tequila El Globo | Tequila Escortauro | Tequila Malas Lenguas |
| Tequila Romántico | Tequila Y llegó Jalisco | Tesoro Chanteco | The Mexican Lucha |
| Tierra Azul | Turks & Tequila | ||
#3 Destiladora Los Magos – NOM 1431
71 Active Brands | Tlajomulco De Zuñiga, Jalisco (Central) | Ranked #60
Destiladora Los Magos is a high-capacity contract distillery operating in Tlajomulco De Zuñiga, Jalisco, within the Central region, with 71 currently active tequila brands in its portfolio. It plays an important role in the private-label market, producing spirits for a wide range of brand owners targeting different price points and consumer profiles. The distillery’s output spans youthful, cocktail-friendly tequilas through to more characterful bottlings aimed at enthusiasts. This breadth helps keep the facility in steady demand among both emerging and established labels.
Production at Destiladora Los Magos leans into modern, efficient practices whilst retaining enough flexibility to support varied flavour targets. Agave is cooked using autoclaves, a method that allows for consistent throughput and precise control of cooking times compared with traditional masonry ovens. These industrial setups support reliable conversion of starches to fermentable sugars even at higher volumes. The emphasis is on repeatability and scalability rather than slow, highly artisanal cook cycles.
On the distillation side, the distillery makes use of column stills alongside other equipment, reflecting a more contemporary, industrial configuration than small-batch copper pot operations. Column stills are well suited to larger runs, delivering cleaner profiles that work particularly well in mixed drinks and branded cocktail programmes. This configuration also helps maintain consistent spirit quality across numerous brands. The setup gives brand owners room to differentiate later through ageing, blending, and finishing choices.
Among the many labels produced here, standout names include 916 Tequila, Adan y Eva, Cava Antigua, El Bastón del Rey, and La Martina, all of which have attracted particular interest from drinkers and reviewers. In the past, the distillery also produced Suavecito, a brand that accumulated significant ratings and helped showcase the facility’s ability to handle higher-profile projects. The combination of well-known and niche brands illustrates how Los Magos balances volume with the needs of distinctive identities. This track record makes it an appealing partner for both new ventures and established portfolios.
Destiladora Los Magos is open to contract production and also operates under NOM 1539, giving brand owners additional flexibility in how they position and label their tequilas. Ageing programmes can draw on a variety of cask types to build complexity over time, complementing the relatively clean spirit produced by its modern equipment. Water used in production and proofing is treated to ensure consistent character across batches, supporting the needs of brands that distribute widely. Overall, the distillery embodies a modern, scalable approach to tequila-making designed for today’s global market.
Note: Brands highlighted in red within the table are key or notable labels from this distillery, typically those with stronger popularity or rating activity, and are emphasised for quick reference.
| Destiladora Los Magos – 71 Active Brands | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| 420 Time Tequila | 916 Tequila | Adan y Eva | Adorable Y Linda |
| Alabanza | Aluzar | Amor de Angel Enamorado | Bajo Cero |
| Beach Lila | Belleza Única | Ber 1978 Nal | Beso Con Pasión |
| Calera | Calera Real | Casa Catador | Catocho |
| Cava Antigua | Cava Vieja | Celador | Celta |
| Charro Gordo | Corazón Irrespetuoso | Cosecha Dorada | Criztos |
| D Reserva Del Refugio | Deleite | Destello | Destello Azul |
| Diabolico | Dominante | Don Ramiro | El Bastón del Rey |
| El Rey De Los Vampiros | Esencia Latina | Exquisito Azul | God Enoc |
| Gollete | Gran Destello Azul | Herencia Agavera | Jarabe Tapatio De Nuestra Tierra |
| KBRON | La Casa Escapar | La Ladina | La Martina |
| Noble 1975 | Papacito | Potro Fino | Preciosa Y Orgullosa |
| Prodigio | Prodigio Maya | Pueblo Blanco | Puntas Azules |
| Rancho El Gato | Riviera Maya | SFA Adelan | Salamanca |
| Sensorial | Sin Origen | Sollozo Azteca | Soñador |
| Sueño Dorado | Tequila Blue J | Tequila Camporo | Tequila Espontáneo |
| Tequila Gen Azteca | Tequila Legionario | Tequila Rico Azul | Tierra Mexicana |
| Tobien | XYZ Tequila | Xochimilco | |
#4 Proveedora y Procesadora de Agave Tres Hermanos – NOM 1439
60 Active Brands | Amatitán, Jalisco (Los Valles) | Ranked #52
Proveedora y Procesadora de Agave Tres Hermanos is a modern contract distillery based in Amatitán, Jalisco, within the Los Valles region, and currently produces 60 active tequila brands. It focuses on supplying brand owners with reliable, scalable production while still allowing room for distinct house styles. The portfolio ranges from playful, cocktail-led labels through to more characterful sipping tequilas. This mix has helped the distillery secure a place among the top producers by active brand count.
The distillery is geared towards efficiency, using autoclaves to cook its agave rather than traditional stone or brick ovens. Autoclave cooking shortens cycle times and offers precise control over temperature and pressure, which is particularly valuable when managing multiple brands and large batches. Once cooked, the agave is processed using modern extraction methods to achieve consistent sugar yields. This approach keeps production both predictable and cost-effective for private-label partners.
Distillation is carried out using stainless steel pot stills and other contemporary equipment chosen for durability and ease of operation at scale. Stainless steel stills are well suited to high-throughput environments and deliver clean distillates that brand owners can then differentiate through ageing or finishing choices. The plant layout and equipment selection are optimised to handle frequent changeovers between different labels. This makes Tres Hermanos an attractive option for a wide variety of projects, from long-term contracts to shorter experimental runs.
Notable brands produced at this distillery include El Fogonero, Snow Te-Ski-La, V Rey Supremo, and Tio Billy, all of which stand out within the portfolio for their visibility and appeal. In the past, the facility also produced Corrido, a brand that achieved 769 ratings, demonstrating its ability to manage significant, reputation-sensitive labels. The presence of both current and former high-profile brands underlines the trust placed in Tres Hermanos by brand owners. It shows the distillery can support products as they grow in recognition and volume.
Ranked #52 of the top 147 distilleries, Proveedora y Procesadora de Agave Tres Hermanos remains open to contract work and continues to focus on modern, consistent tequila production. Its use of autoclaves and stainless steel pot stills aligns neatly with the needs of contemporary brands seeking reliability across large runs. Water treatment and process control are managed to ensure batch-to-batch consistency, which is essential for globally distributed labels. Overall, it exemplifies a clean, industrial style of tequila-making suited to today’s competitive market.
Note: Brands highlighted in red within the table are key or notable labels from this distillery, typically those with stronger popularity or rating activity, and are emphasised for quick reference.
| Proveedora y Procesadora de Agave Tres Hermanos – 60 Active Brands | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| 1000 Banderas Tequila | 7 Agaves | 924 Tequila | Aluvalles |
| Bakua | Blue Shot | Cabo Real | Caleon |
| Chiqueño | Cinco Patricios Verde | Con Amor 34 | Copal 22 |
| DA 5 | Del Dia Tequila | Don Verdin | Doña Azul |
| Dulce Oro | El Acuerdo | El Fogonero | El Hijuelo |
| El Mando | El Penco | Eleven 20 | Equanimity Tequila |
| ForLife | Gallo Azteca | Gran Tezcalama Tequila | Grand Bay |
| Grande Guapo | Green Card Limited | Infinito f(x) | Isla Maya |
| Jornalero | La Conecta | Los Alumbrados | Los Valentones |
| Luna Llena by Orfarms | Marina De Oro | Metagave | Miixa 100 |
| Monita Tequila | Party Time | Pi Tequila | Potosi |
| Prado Azul | Regalo Mixteco | Retar Tequila | Snow Te-Ski-La |
| Tequila Hermanas Amigas | Tequila IMA6INE | Tequila Kateri | Tequila La Grande Cynthia Silva |
| Tequila Sierreño | Tequila Sueños Global | The Dirty Sanchez Spirit Co. | The Naked Margarita |
| Tio Billy | Un Grito de Sabor | V Rey Supremo | Zenzonte Tequila |
#5 La Cofradía – NOM 1137
58 Active Brands | Tequila, Jalisco (Los Valles) | Ranked #87
La Cofradía is a long-established distillery based in the town of Tequila, Jalisco, within the Los Valles region, and currently produces 58 active brands. It has built a reputation for combining traditional craftsmanship with the capacity to support multiple labels, from house ranges to third-party contracts. The portfolio spans approachable, cocktail-friendly tequilas as well as more serious sipping expressions. This balance allows La Cofradía to serve both everyday drinkers and dedicated enthusiasts.
Unlike many purely industrial facilities, La Cofradía leans strongly into traditional production methods. Agave is cooked in stone or brick ovens, a slower approach that often encourages deeper, more developed flavours compared with purely autoclave-based cooking. For extraction, the distillery employs tahona, the classic stone wheel, alongside other methods as needed, preserving a link to historic tequila-making practice. These choices underpin the more artisanal character often associated with its spirits.
Fermentation and distillation are managed to respect these traditional inputs whilst still maintaining consistency across numerous brands. Stainless steel fermentation tanks allow careful control of temperature and timing, helping to steer flavour development even when batches differ in origin or target profile. Distillation takes place using equipment optimised to capture the cooked agave character brought about by oven roasting and tahona extraction. The combined effect is a spirit style that feels rooted in heritage rather than purely industrial efficiency.
Among the notable brands produced at La Cofradía are Cazul 100, ElVelo, Hiatus, Señor Rio, Tequila 512, and Sangre de Vida Tequila, all of which have attracted meaningful attention from reviewers and consumers. Historically, the distillery has also produced major names such as Clase Azul, Casa Noble, Siempre Tequila, and Casa Komos, each of which has amassed thousands of ratings. This track record underscores La Cofradía’s ability to support premium, high-volume brands without losing its artisanal identity. It also signals the level of trust placed in the distillery by top-tier labels.
Ranked #87 of the top 147 distilleries, La Cofradía remains open to contract production and offers tours, giving visitors a direct view of its traditional methods. Ageing programmes make use of a variety of oak casks to layer complexity onto the base spirit shaped by ovens and tahona. Water is treated and managed carefully to ensure that each brand maintains a consistent profile over time. As a result, La Cofradía stands out in this top‑10 list as one of the more overtly artisanal producers.
Note: Brands highlighted in red within the table are key or notable labels from this distillery, typically those with stronger popularity or rating activity, and are emphasised for quick reference.
| La Cofradía – 58 Active Brands | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Acosta Tequila | Aguascalientes | Antaño Tequila | Artillero |
| Atalaje | Augusto Tequila | Black Box | Cabo Unico |
| Cada Día | Casa Cofradia | Casa Turrent | Cavas Agave Tequila |
| Cazul 100 | Challenge Tequila | De Los Dorados | Don Primo |
| Dos Almas | El Pintor | El Potrillo Obediente | ElVelo |
| Gema | Hiatus | La Brune | La Cofradia |
| La Hormiga | La Montura | Lajach | Los Cofrades |
| Mamalón | Mariangel | Maverick | Mi Buen |
| Mundo Tequila | Nueva Era | Oscada | PP El Toro |
| Pepe Vinoria | Real Valledero | Reyalibre Tequila | San Hagen |
| San Solón | Sangre de Vida Tequila | Sevilla la Villa | Señor Rio |
| Storywood Tequila | Tequila 512 | Tequila Broce | Tequila My Pride |
| Tequila Siete Letras | Tequila Soneto | Tequilador | Toleco |
| Tres Alegres Compadres | UWA Tequila | Viva Mojo | Vivaano |
| X-30 | XXX Tequila | ||
#6 Compañía Tequilera de Arandas, S.A. de C.V. – NOM 1460
51 Active Brands | Arandas, Jalisco (Los Altos Southern) | Ranked #93
Compañía Tequilera de Arandas, S.A. de C.V. operates from Arandas, Jalisco, in the Los Altos Southern region and currently produces 51 active tequila brands. Its position within the highlands gives access to agaves known for higher sugar content and brighter flavour profiles. The distillery focuses on contract and private-label production whilst also supporting more established house names. This combination of flexibility and volume makes it an attractive partner for brands seeking a foothold in the premium tequila segment.
In terms of production methods, the distillery uses both traditional stone or brick ovens and modern autoclaves for cooking its agave. This dual approach allows producers to choose between slower, more characterful oven roasting and faster, more controlled autoclave cycles. Multiple fermentation methods are employed to suit different brand briefs, giving room to adjust factors such as yeast selection and fermentation time. As a result, the facility can tailor fermentations to emphasise fruit, spice, or cleaner profiles as required.
Distillation at Compañía Tequilera de Arandas draws on a mix of equipment that supports both traditional and more contemporary styles. The setup is designed to handle varied batch sizes and specifications, ensuring that contract clients can scale up whilst maintaining consistency. Different still configurations and distillation techniques can be applied depending on whether a lighter, mixable tequila or a fuller-bodied sipping expression is desired. This technical flexibility is a key part of the distillery’s value proposition for brand owners.
Notable brands produced here include Riazul, Tequila Casa Del Sol, and Tequila Lobos de Sangre Azul, all of which have accumulated substantial rating activity and profile among enthusiasts. These names sit alongside a wide range of smaller or emerging labels, reflecting the distillery’s willingness to work with projects at different stages of growth. The presence of multiple well-regarded brands demonstrates the trust placed in the production team. It also signals the distillery’s ability to deliver high-quality spirit across diverse brand identities.
Ranked #93 of the top 147 distilleries, Compañía Tequilera de Arandas is open to private-label and contract work and continues to refine its mix of traditional and modern techniques. Ageing programmes can draw on various cask types to complement the highland agave character of its tequilas. Water treatment and process control are managed carefully to ensure reliable results for both domestic and export markets. Overall, the distillery serves as a versatile, highlands-based hub for brands seeking quality with scalable production.
Note: Brands highlighted in red within the table are key or notable labels from this distillery, typically those with stronger popularity or rating activity, and are emphasised for quick reference.
| Compañía Tequilera de Arandas – 51 Active Brands | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| A Tequila Antigua Sol | Antigua Cruz | Chilango | Codorniz |
| Don Miro | Don Nico | Dos Cachorros | Dos Cachorros La Cachorra |
| El Charro | El DFÑO | El Mandatario | Escudero |
| Garbancera Viva La Calavera | Gran Misterio | Hacienda de Tepa | Haciendas de Jalisco |
| Kafka | La Leyenda de Don Reyes | La Pitaya by Riazul | Matices de Mi Tierra |
| Maxximo de Codorniz | Olamendi's | Panchon Trucking | Pasión Tequila |
| Ranchero Jalisciense | Real Hacienda | Riazul | Rsv Agavia |
| Solana Tequila | Somos Kompadres | Tekoniak Tequila | Tepa |
| Tequila 771 | Tequila Casa Del Sol | Tequila Casafina | Tequila Ciudad |
| Tequila Dos Caras | Tequila Gran Arte | Tequila Gran Diamante | Tequila Gran Magistrado |
| Tequila Lobos de Sangre Azul | Tequila OMG | Tequila Soul Mate | Tequoniac Tequila |
| The Bad Stuff | Tres Reyes | Uxmal | Vanguardia |
| Vida Tequila | Viejas | Z Pepe Zevada | |
#7 Tequila Las Américas, S.A. de C.V. – NOM 1480
44 Active Brands | Amatitan, Jalisco (Los Valles) | Ranked #29
Tequila Las Américas, S.A. de C.V. is located in Amatitan, Jalisco, in the Los Valles region and currently produces 44 active tequila brands. It has become particularly well known for specialising in organic tequilas, which feature prominently throughout its portfolio. The distillery works both with its own labels and with contract and private-label partners. This positioning places it at the intersection of craft-focused production and modern, health-conscious consumer trends.
Production at Tequila Las Américas uses a combination of traditional stone or brick ovens and more modern autoclaves for cooking agave. The traditional ovens help develop deeper, more complex flavour precursors, whilst autoclaves offer speed and precise control when needed. The distillery also employs various fermentation options, including open-air fermentation, which can introduce additional nuance and character to the resulting must. These choices give brand owners a wide palette of process variables to define their desired style.
Distillation is carried out on equipment configured to support both organic certification requirements and consistent quality across multiple brands. Careful cleaning protocols and process controls are required to maintain organic integrity between runs. The stills are operated to preserve the bright, often herbaceous agave notes associated with organic highland and valley spirits. This technical setup lets Tequila Las Américas deliver clean, expressive distillates suitable for both unaged and aged expressions.
Among the most notable brands produced here are 123 Organic Tequila, Don Abraham, and Solento Organic Tequila, each of which has attracted significant numbers of ratings and strong average scores. Other key organic-focused labels include Aldez Organic Tequila, El Sativo Organic Tequila, and Tequila Celestial Organic, reinforcing the distillery’s reputation in this niche. These brands help signal to consumers and the trade that Tequila Las Américas is a serious player in the organic segment. Their success also demonstrates the facility’s ability to support premium, narrative-driven products.
Ranked #29 of the top 147 distilleries, Tequila Las Américas is open to private-label and contract projects and offers tours by appointment only. Its blend of traditional cooking methods, flexible fermentation regimes, and focus on organic production appeals to both emerging and established brands. Water and process controls are managed to support consistent organic certification and flavour delivery. Overall, the distillery stands out in this top‑10 list as a leading specialist in organic tequila.
Note: Brands highlighted in red within the table are key or notable labels from this distillery, typically those with stronger popularity or rating activity, and are emphasised for quick reference.
| Tequila Las Américas – 44 Active Brands | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| 123 Organic Tequila | AgaveLuz Tequila | Aldez Organic Tequila | Cabalgadura Azteca |
| Casa Munag Emblema XVI | Cascada | Cavalo | Conejo Salvaje |
| Desnuda Tequila | Don Abraham | Don Montes | Dos Rios |
| El Agave Barrica | El Berrinche | El Diseñador | El Gran Jurado |
| El Nivel | El Sativo Organic Tequila | Five Seven Four Tequila | Generación XXI |
| Gran Coronel | Hermosa Casagave | Laya | Laúd Tequila |
| Leucadia 1875 | Los Négros | Mamba | O Impara |
| One With Life Tequila | Pezuna Blanca | Pueblo Amigo | Puro Verde |
| Ryno Tequila | SUR J.W.P. | Santoyo Grand Leyenda | Solento Organic Tequila |
| Tequila 545 | Tequila 88 (Eighty Eight) | Tequila Celestial Organic | Tequila Gran Lujo |
| Tequila Seduce | Tezcazul | Xquisito | Óle All Day Cocktails |
#8 Destileria Leyros, S.A. de C.V. – NOM 1489
41 Active Brands | Tequila, Jalisco (Los Valles) | Ranked #128
Destileria Leyros, S.A. de C.V. is located in Tequila, Jalisco, in the Los Valles region and currently produces 41 active brands. It serves primarily as a contract and private-label distillery, supporting a wide array of projects from emerging labels to more established names. Although it sits lower in the overall rankings, its portfolio includes several brands with strong reputations and distinctive positioning. This combination of breadth and a handful of standout bottlings gives Leyros a quiet but meaningful presence in the market.
In production, Leyros uses a notably diverse set of cooking methods, including stone or brick ovens, acid-thermal hydrolysis, and boiling tanks. This mix allows the distillery to tailor agave treatment to different styles and cost structures, balancing traditional flavour development against efficiency. Traditional tahona extraction is employed alongside more modern methods, preserving a link to heritage techniques whilst still enabling higher throughput. These process options give brand owners considerable flexibility in shaping the base character of their tequilas.
Distillation and ageing at Destileria Leyros are configured to complement this varied front end. Stainless and other still types are run to produce both clean, mixable spirits and more structured distillates suited to sipping. The distillery also makes use of Japanese oak barrels among its ageing options, adding an unusual twist to its maturation programme. This enables the creation of expressions with distinctive texture and spice profiles compared with more conventional American or French oak regimes.
The brand roster includes some particularly high-profile names. Casa Dragones is by far the most popular in terms of rating volume, while Tridente stands out with a perfect average rating and Tequila Vecindad holds a notably high score as well. These flagship labels sit alongside a long tail of smaller or regional brands, such as Curamia, Enemigo, and Velocity Tequila. Their presence underscores the trust that both premium and niche projects place in Leyros for consistent production.
Ranked #128 of the top 147 distilleries, Destileria Leyros is open to private-label contracts but does not currently offer tours. Its reliance on multiple cooking and extraction methods, including traditional tahona and less common techniques like acid-thermal hydrolysis, positions it as a technically adaptable producer. Ageing in Japanese oak and other casks further broadens the stylistic possibilities available to its brand partners. Overall, the distillery offers a flexible platform for distinctive and often experimentally inclined tequilas.
Note: Brands highlighted in red within the table are key or notable labels from this distillery, typically those with stronger popularity or rating activity, and are emphasised for quick reference.
| Destileria Leyros – 41 Active Brands | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Cachito De Agave | Cantina Azul | Casa Dragones | Casa Jugadores |
| Casa Tiempo | Casazul | Cat Tequila | Chrome Horse Society |
| Cienfuegos | Cosmico | Cosmos | Curamia |
| Don Fermin | El Perrito | Enemigo | Generación Campero |
| Iconos De Mexico | Ignite | Imperio Del Tiempo | Las Maracas |
| Leyros | Litos | Los Azules | MIDI |
| Mexica | Mi Amor | Mujer Americana | Mujereal Tequila |
| Octavio Tequila | Opalo Azul | Recipe 21 | Republic |
| Reserva Momento 1423 | Sapiens Bebida de Sabios | Saudade | Score Baja 1000 |
| Tequila 52 Casa Cinco Dos | Tequila Solarum | Tequila Vecindad | Tridente |
| Velocity Tequila | |||
#9 Casa Tequilera de Arandas, S.A. de C.V. – NOM 1499
40 Active Brands | Arandas, Jalisco (Los Altos Southern) | Ranked #91
Casa Tequilera de Arandas, S.A. de C.V. is situated in Arandas, Jalisco, in the Los Altos Southern region and currently produces 40 active brands. Its highland location contributes to agaves with elevated sugar levels and bright, aromatic profiles. The distillery supports a mix of its own labels and third-party projects, positioning itself as a flexible partner for both established and emerging brands. This combination of place, portfolio, and contract focus has helped it secure a solid place within the broader tequila landscape.
In production, Casa Tequilera de Arandas uses multiple cooking methods, including traditional stone or brick ovens as well as both high- and low-pressure autoclaves. The ovens allow for slower, more flavour-intensive roasting, while the autoclaves deliver speed and precise control when required by particular projects. This dual capability lets the distillery accommodate a wide range of stylistic briefs and budget levels. After cooking, agave is processed using efficient extraction methods to ensure consistent sugar yields across different batches.
A distinctive feature of this distillery is its use of classical music during fermentation, an approach sometimes employed to influence yeast activity and create a calmer environment in the cellar. Fermentation is otherwise managed with close attention to temperature and timing to produce clean, expressive washes. Distillation then refines these ferments into spirits that can lean either towards cocktail versatility or sipping focus, depending on the brand’s intent. Extensive barrel options, including Hungarian oak, allow further tailoring during maturation.
The brand list includes well-regarded names such as 1921 Tequila, Clandestina, Comisario, Tequila 1349, and Tequila Murciélago, many of which hold strong average ratings among enthusiasts. The standout, however, is Mijenta Tequila, which has garnered thousands of ratings and a notably high average score, making it one of the most visible products in the portfolio. Alongside these, smaller labels like Angelisco Tequila, Rock 'N Roll Tequila, and Solida Tequila add further diversity. Together they demonstrate the distillery’s ability to support both headline and niche brands.
Ranked #91 of the top 147 distilleries, Casa Tequilera de Arandas is open to private-label contracts but does not currently offer tours. Its combination of multiple cooking methods, carefully managed fermentation, and varied barrel choices gives brand owners plenty of creative latitude. Water and process controls are maintained to ensure consistent quality across domestic and export markets. Overall, the facility stands out for its blend of traditional techniques, experimental touches, and broad contract capabilities.
Note: Brands highlighted in red within the table are key or notable labels from this distillery, typically those with stronger popularity or rating activity, and are emphasised for quick reference.
| Casa Tequilera de Arandas – 40 Active Brands | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| 1824 Casta Antigua | 1921 Tequila | Angelisco Tequila | Antiguo Imperio |
| AquaRiva | Augie's Tequila | Bendita Vida | Billy's Tequila |
| Boss Spirits | Capital Okto | Celebre | Clandestina |
| Comisario | Cortica | D'Yavol | Don Sueños Tequila |
| Dr. Goodburn's | El Brindis Mexicano | Gran Comisario | Gran Reserva de Jalisco |
| Hacienda Los Sauces | I Love Tequila | LALA | León Y Sol |
| Loma Azul | Los Muertos | Maxwell Park | Mijenta Tequila |
| Nostra Máter | Penta | Reina de la Muerte | Rock 'N Roll Tequila |
| Solida Tequila | Tequila 1349 | Tequila Murciélago | Tequila Olas |
| Tradicion Azul | Volando | Yellowstone | Élala |
#10 Auténtica Tequilera, S.A. de C.V. – NOM 1502
35 Active Brands | Tequila, Jalisco (Los Valles) | Ranked #98
Auténtica Tequilera, S.A. de C.V. is based in Tequila, Jalisco, within the Los Valles region and currently produces 35 active brands. It operates as a versatile producer, working with both its own labels and private-label clients. The distillery’s portfolio covers a spectrum from approachable, cocktail-friendly tequilas to more premium offerings aimed at enthusiasts. This range allows it to serve diverse markets while maintaining a coherent production identity.
The distillery uses a combination of stone or brick ovens and high- and low-pressure autoclaves for cooking its agave. Traditional ovens encourage deeper, more rounded flavour development, while autoclaves provide speed and precise control where efficiency is paramount. After cooking, agave is processed to optimise sugar extraction, supporting consistent ferments across different brands. These choices give production teams significant flexibility in tailoring flavour profiles from the outset.
Distillation at Auténtica Tequilera is carried out using both copper pot stills and stainless steel pot stills. Copper helps strip unwanted sulphur compounds and can contribute to a more polished, characterful spirit, whereas stainless steel offers durability and ease of maintenance. This mix of still types allows the distillery to balance traditional sensibilities with modern practicality. Carefully managed distillation runs yield spirits suited to both blanco bottlings and extended barrel ageing.
The ageing programme includes French oak, American white oak, whisky barrels, and sherry casks, enabling a broad range of finishing styles. This variety supports brands that wish to differentiate through cask influence, from sweeter, vanilla-led profiles to drier, more oxidative characters. Among the portfolio, Partida stands out as the most popular brand by rating volume, with strong average scores, while 3 Point Tequila, Marcado 28, and Tequila Scenario also show notably high averages. Together, these labels highlight the distillery’s capacity to support respected, premium-positioned products.
Ranked #98 of the top 147 distilleries, Auténtica Tequilera is open to contract work and offers tours by appointment, giving visitors a direct look at its mix of traditional and modern practices. Water management and process control are overseen to ensure consistency for both domestic and export markets. The facility’s flexible cooking, distillation, and ageing setups make it an appealing option for brands seeking a reliable production base with room for stylistic nuance. As the final entry in this top‑10 list, it underscores the breadth of approaches represented among leading multi-brand tequila producers.
Note: Brands highlighted in red within the table are key or notable labels from this distillery, typically those with stronger popularity or rating activity, and are emphasised for quick reference.
| Auténtica Tequilera – 35 Active Brands | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 Point Tequila | Agave Quantico Tequila | Casa Alebrije | Casa Máximo |
| Casa Olazabal | Casa República | Casto Origen | Caz Poker Reina |
| Caz Poker Rey K | Don Diablo | Dos Fuentes | El Mágico Tequila |
| Evaga | Galope | Hacienda Navarro | La Ventana |
| Legado del Sur Tequila | MMI Mil Imperios | Marcado 28 | Nock |
| Partida | Pasa Tiempo | RG Legado | SU |
| Sotier Agraves | Talense | Tamayo | Tequila Arsenal |
| Tequila Scenario | The Wall Tequila | Tierras Autenticas de Jalisco | Ultima Luna Rosa |
| Uno Casa Hergueta 1 | Venerado | Vidamigos Tequila | |
Final Thoughts – How to Enjoy Tequila
This top‑10 Tequila Distilleries guide brings together Mexico’s most prolific tequila distilleries by active brand count, showing how each combines location, equipment, and production methods to create an astonishing variety of styles and labels. From high‑capacity contract plants to more traditional oven‑ and tahona‑driven producers, the profiles reveal the real makers behind many familiar bottles and highlight the craftsmanship that goes into them.
All of this detail serves as a reminder that well‑made tequila is a serious, carefully crafted spirit that deserves to be sipped, savoured, and explored, not treated as a disposable party shot. Throwing it back with salt and lemon is usually just a way of hiding bad tequila – and, frankly, that ritual is best left to losers and cheap bottles that cannot stand on their own. If the spirit only tastes acceptable when blasted down with garnish and a chaser, the problem is the tequila, not the category.
The distilleries in this list produce tequilas that reward slower, more respectful drinking: neat, in a proper glass, and given time to open up. Approached that way, the nuances of agave, oven or autoclave cooking, tahona or roller extraction, and varied ageing regimes can finally be appreciated. The more consumers treat tequila like the complex spirit it is, the more value and recognition these producers – and their best brands – will receive.