Tequila Basics

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.

Oliver’s Beverage Team Top Picks for May 2026

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

Note: All prices in effect through May 31, 2026 at all four Oliver’s Market locations.

Featured Favorite

Corralejo Blanco, 750 ML Bottle, $26.99 +crv
“An exciting new addition to the Oliver’s set. 100% Handpicked Blue Weber Agave. Light & crisp with white peppercorns and mint. Yum!” 750 ml. Bottle.” – David Riley, Stony Point Wine Manager

Corralejo Reposado, 750 ML Bottle, $26.99 +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

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.

After harvesting, the hearts from mature blue agave are cooked, then crushed to extract the sugary juice. The agave juice is fermented with yeast to produce a low-alcohol liquid known as “mosto” then distilled to produce a clear, high proof tequila.

Espolon Blanco, 750 ML Bottle, $17.99 +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

Cazadores Blanco, 750 ML Bottle, $16.99 +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

Sauza Hornitos Plata, 750 ML Bottle, $17.99 +crv

“One of our cleanest Blanco Tequilas. Full of fresh citrus fruit, it always has a smooth and easy finish!” – Matteo Polverari, Montecito Wine Manager

Lunazul Blanco, 750 ML Bottle, $17.99 +crv 

“Lunazul is new to the Oliver’s shelves, and what a value! Ripe fruit sweetness, hints of herbal mint and subtle black notes. Balanced, refreshing, with a citrus-crisp finish.” – Brandon Witwicki, Windsor Wine Manager

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

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.

Espolon Reposado, 750 ML Bottle, $19.99 +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

Cazadores Tequila 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

Sauza Hornitos Reposado, 750 ML Bottle, $19.99 +crv          

“Hornitos stakes claim to having the first Reposado before the word even existed. Slightly woody with herbal and apple notes. Grab pineapple juice and fresh lime juice to make a tasty pineapple margarita!” – Matteo Polverari, Montecito Wine Manager

Lunazul Reposado, 750 ML Bottle, $17.99 +crv

“Cooked agave, tropical fruit notes and hints of vanilla. So much quality in this bottle for the price. An approachable Reposado for the price conscious!” – Brandon Witwicki, Windsor Wine Manager

The Care and Keeping of your Tequila                                                              

• 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.

Ways to Enjoy Tequila

• 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 chilled shot

Cocktails, Anyone?

Paloma

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

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

The Freshest Margarita

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

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

• 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

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.

Hornitos Paloma Pitcher

• 750 ml Plata Silver Tequila
• 32 oz. Fresh Ruby Red Grapefruit Juice
• 15 oz. Simple Syrup
• 32 oz. Club Soda

1. Combine ingredients over ice in a large pitcher.
2. Pour into tall glasses and top with soda. Half salt rim optional. Garnish with grapefruit peel.

The Oliver’s Market Beer, Wine & Spirits Team is At Your Service

Our passionate team is always ready to assist, whether your question be about tequila or anything else you might be seeking in our department. Please do not hesitate to let us know how we may be of service.

Cheers!