Tequila is a renowned Mexican spirit distilled from the blue agave plant. Produced primarily in the region around the town of Tequila in Jalisco, it offers a spectrum of flavors, ranging from vibrant and earthy to rich and complex, depending on the distillation and aging. It has a rich history dating back centuries, evolving from indigenous fermentation practices to become a global icon of Mexican culture and craftsmanship.

Without further ado, let’s jump into our list of curated spirit ‘stars’ this month.

Note: All prices in effect from May 1-31, 2024 at all four Oliver’s Market locations.

Featured Favorite

Milagro Silver Tequila, 750 ML Bottle, $19.99 +crv          

“Milagro Tequila is a 100% blue agave tequila renowned for its bright, fresh agave flavor and exceptional smoothness. Milagro Silver is distilled three times, resulting in a lighter, milder flavor compared to some other blancos. This makes it an easy tequila to sip, especially for those new to the category.” – Brandon Witwicki, Windsor Wine Manager

Blanco Tequilas

Blanco tequilas are typically bottled shortly after distillation without any aging, resulting in a clear and vibrant spirit that showcases the natural flavors of the agave.

Casamigos Blanco, 750 ML Bottle, $36.99 +crv

“This blanco tequila earns high praise for its smoothness and flavor profile. It’s a standout choice with a light, fruit-driven taste that includes notes of papaya, guava, and vanilla, delightful for sipping. Its accolades include winning prestigious awards at international competitions. Great for mixing or on the rocks.” – David Riley, Stony Point Wine Manager

Cazadores Blanco, 750 ML Bottle, $17.99 +crv

“Brisk, clean and herbaceous, its aroma has a spicy edge, plus hints of mint and dill, while the minty palate finishes with vanilla-coconut sweetness and mild baking-spice tingle. Versatile for a wide range of cocktails.” – Justin Bowman, Cotati Wine Manager

Espolon Blanco, 750 ML Bottle, $22.99 +crv    

“An incredibly approachable blanco Tequila. Bright and clean  with notes of vanilla and citrus.  Finishing with a touch of light pepper, this one goes down easy!” – Josh Kirchhoff, Corporate Wine & Liquor Coordinator

Jose Cuervo Silver, 750 ML Bottle, $9.99 +crv

“Always a crowd pleaser, Cuervo’s Silver is double distilled, with smooth, crisp and subtle agave flavor. The perfect starter for your pitcher of margaritas!” – Josh Kirchhoff, Corporate Wine & Liquor Coordinator

Lalo Blanco, 750 ML Bottle, $36.99 +crv

“The Oliver’s wine department LOVED this tequila. Eduardo “Lalo” Gonzalez is the son of Don Julio Gonzalez and the craftmanship runs through the family. Made with only 100% blue agave, champagne yeast and water. It is the cleanest and smoothest blanco tequila I have ever had!” -Matteo Polverari, Montecito Wine Manager

Sauza Blanco, 750 ML Bottle, $10.99 +crv

“Shimmeringly clear and unexpectedly fresh. Double distilled for a smoother character. The clean taste has hints of agave that surprise the senses. Perfect for making a pitcher of margaritas.” – Justin Bowman, Cotati Wine Manager

Teremana Blanco, 750 ML Bottle, $25.99 +crv

“Teramana is the tequila of “The People’s Champ” and “Final Boss” Dwayne Johnson. Distilled in copper pots using 100% Blue Weber Highlands agave. Notes of bright citrus with a smooth and fresh finish!” – Matteo Polverari, Montecito Wine Manager

Reposado Tequilas

After distilling, reposado tequila is aged in oak barrels for a minimum of two months and a maximum of one year. The aging results in oak imparted flavors like vanilla, caramel and spice, and mellows the spirit’s intensity. They are typically pale gold in color.

Casamigos Reposado, 750 ML Bottle, $41.99 +crv

“With its smooth finish and a palate boasting notes of tropical fruit, vanilla, and oak, it’s a premium tequila that’s perfect for sipping neat or adding complexity to cocktails. This is a great choice for those looking to indulge in a luxurious tequila experience.” – David Riley, Stony Point Wine Manager

Cazadores Reposado, 750 ML Bottle, $19.99 +crv

“Aged in new American oak barrels for a range of two months to one year giving it citrus, tropical fruits and vanilla on the palate. This is good tequila at a great price!” – Justin Bowman, Cotati Wine Manager

Corralejo Reposado, 750 ML Bottle, $23.99 +crv

“This tequila is known for its light straw color and a palate that combines herbaceous agave with hints of pineapple and brown sugar, leading to a mellow and silky finish. Aged for four months in charred American oak, it offers a taste that’s both traditional and intriguingly different from other tequilas. Get a taste of Mexico in your glass.” – David Riley, Stony Point Wine Manager

Espolon Reposado, 750 ML Bottle, $23.99 +crv

“Surprisingly complex for the price. Caramel aromas with presented roasted agave. Rounded out with tropical fruits, this Reposado finishes smooth, enticing the next sip!” – Josh Kirchhoff, Corporate Wine & Liquor Coordinator

Milagro Reposado, 750 ML Bottle, $22.99 +crv

“Milagro Reposado is a delightful tequila crafted from 100% blue agave and aged in oak barrels. A blend of spirit aged in both American and French oak barrels for up to 6 months, it offers a more complex flavor profile. Expect hints of pepper, vanilla, cinnamon, citrus, and baking spices. This one is excellent for cocktails or savoring on its own.” – Brandon Witwicki, Windsor Wine Manager

Teremana Reposado, 750 ML Bottle, $26.99 +crv

“Spirit of the Earth” is what Teramana means. They back that up by crafting a sustainable Tequila that composts the agave and filters the waste water left over from production. Fuller bodied with hints of oak and vanilla. Taste what ‘The Rock’ is distilling!” – Matteo Polverari, Montecito Wine Manager

Mixto Tequilas

These tequilas are typically made using a blend of at least 51% blue agave, but the balance can be cane sugar. Mixto tequila is often used in mixed drinks and cocktails due to its affordability and versatility.

Jose Cuervo Gold, 750 ML Bottle, $9.99 +crv

“Still one of the top five selling tequilas in the US, the legendary “Cuervo Gold” is smooth and approachable. Blended with sweet agave, oak and vanilla flavors. At this price, snatch up a bottle…or three!” – Josh Kirchhoff, Corporate Wine & Liquor Coordinator

Sauza Gold, 750 ML Bottle, $10.99 +crv

“Smooth, with the fresh agave taste you expect, plus an extra hint of cooked agave and vanilla. A mixing tequila at a great price.” – Justin Bowman, Cotati Wine Manager

Añejo Tequila

Añejo tequila is aged in oak barrels for a minimum of one year and a maximum of three years. Additional time in oak results in a more complex and nuanced flavor profile and a smooth, refined finish. The color is typically deep gold or amber, reflecting the extended oak contact.

Milagro Añejo, 750 ML Bottle, $29.99 +crv

“Milagro Añejo is 100% blue agave tequila which is aged in American oak barrels for 14 months. The aging results in a taste that is smooth, refined, and still agave-forward. This tequila is best enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or as a delightful addition to your favorite tequila cocktails. Whether you’re sipping it slowly or mixing up a classic Margarita, Milagro Añejo embodies the spirit of Mexico.” – Brandon Witwicki, Windsor Wine Manager

Got Questions?

Please remember that our Wine, Spirits, and Beverage team loves to answer your questions, so do not hesitate to ask for assistance.

Ways to Enjoy Tequila

This month’s featured Tequilas all have serving suggestions noted in our “In Good Spirits” flyer, but here is a general list on the classic ways to enjoy this spirit:

• On the rocks
• Sipped Neat, ideally in a glass that allows savoring the aromas and flavors
• In a cocktail, which can be as simple as tequila, lime, and your sweetener of choice
• In one shot, served cool or chilled

The Care and Keeping of your Tequila

Is there anything special to know about keeping your Tequila at its best? Here are some simple tips for best results:

• Store in a cool, dark area, such as a wine cellar, pantry, cabinet or box
• Store your Tequila in its bottle of a well-sealed decanter
• Store at a stable temperature, and avoid sunlight (68-72 degrees Fahrenheit is ideal)
• Tequila should be kept upright and not stored on its side, even if it has a cork closure.
• To enjoy all of its nuanced flavors, Tequila should not be chilled, unless it is preferred for shots. It should then be chilled right before serving.

Cocktail Inspiration

Paloma

INGREDIENTS

• 3 oz. Espolon Blanco Tequila
• 2 oz. Grapefruit Juice
• ½ oz. Lime Juice
• Topo Chico or other sparkling water
• Garnish – grapefruit or lime slice

METHOD

1. Rim the glass with salt if desired
2. Fill a glass with ice. Add Tequila, grapefruit juice and lime juice
3. Top with Topo Chico or sparkling water of your choice. Garnish with grapefruit or lime wedge

Casa Refresher

INGREDIENTS

• 1 ½ oz. Casamigos Blanco
• 1 oz. Fresh Watermelon Juice
• ½ oz. Lime Juice
• ¼ oz. Simple Syrup
• 8-10 Mint Leaves
• 4 dashes Peychaud’s Bitters
• Garnish – Mint spring and Watermelon chunk

METHOD
Combine all ingredients into a tin shaker. Muddle fruit and herbs. Add ice, shake vigorously, and strain into a rocks glass. Add fresh ice and garnish.

The Freshest Margarita

INGREDIENTS

• 2 Parts Milagro Silver Tequila
• ¾ part Agave Nectar
• 1 Part Fresh Lime Juice
• Garnish – Lime Wheel

METHOD

1. Rim the glass with salt if desired
2. Pour all ingredients into a Boston Shaker, add ice, shake and strain over fresh ice into a rocks glass
3. Garnish with a lime wheel and enjoy!

Cazadores Blood Orange Margarita

INGREDIENTS

• 1 ½ oz. Cazadores Reposado Tequila
• 1 oz. Agave Nectar or Simple Syrup
• 3/4 oz. Lime Juice
• 3/4 oz. Perfect Puree Blood Orange Concentrate
• Garnish – Blood Orange Slice

METHOD

1. Rim the glass with salt if desired
2. In a blender combine all the ingredients with a full scoop of ice. Blend and serve in a 12 oz. Margarita glass.
3. Garnish with the orange slice.